The history of Peking Duck A look into the origins and development of the legendary Peking duck dish

The story of the Peking Duck

Peking duck has a long and fascinating history dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644). During this time, Beijing became a cultural and culinary centre of China and many famous dishes were developed, including Peking Duck.

The Ming Dynasty and the Development of Beijing

During the Ming Dynasty, Beijing flourished and became the capital of the empire. Imperial cuisine flourished and new culinary creations emerged. Peking duck became a symbol of the capital's wealth and sophistication.

Peking duck in imperial cuisine

In imperial cuisine, Peking duck played a special role. It was considered a royal delicacy and served only on special occasions. The preparation of Peking duck was an elaborate process that required a lot of experience and skill.

The selection and breeding of ducks

The selection of ducks for Peking Duck was crucial. Only specific breeds and ducks of a certain age were used to achieve the desired flavour and texture. The ducks were carefully reared and fed a special diet to ensure tender meat and crispy skin.

Techniques for Tender Meat and Crispy Skin

The preparation of Peking Duck involved special techniques to achieve both tender meat and crispy skin. This included hanging the ducks to dry, applying a special marinade, and roasting them in an oven. Each step was meticulously executed to achieve the best possible result.

The Significance of the Special Marinade

A crucial component of Peking Duck is the special marinade, made from a blend of spices, soy sauce, honey, and other ingredients. This marinade imparts the distinctive flavour and helps the skin become crispy and flavourful during roasting.

From Royal Delicacy to Popular Dish

Over time, Peking Duck gained popularity and made its way from the imperial kitchen to the restaurants of Beijing. Today, it has become one of the most well-known and beloved dishes in Chinese cuisine, both in China and around the world.

Peking Duck Today - An International Delight

Peking Duck has also gained recognition outside of China. Many countries now have restaurants dedicated to serving Peking Duck, and it is enjoyed by people all over the world.

Preserving Tradition and Flavour

Despite its popularity, it is important to preserve the traditional preparation and unique flavour of Peking Duck. Many restaurants place great emphasis on authenticity and continue to use traditional cooking techniques to ensure the distinctive taste.

With its fascinating history and refined preparation techniques, Peking Duck is not only a delicious dish but also a symbol of China's rich culinary heritage.