Every January 18th marks National Peking Duck Day, a celebration dedicated to honoring China's national dish. The preparation of Peking duck has deep historical roots, evolving and perfecting over thousands of years since the establishment of the Yuan Dynasty by Kublai Khan. Today, the delectable experience of Peking duck is not limited to China; it can be savored in Chinese restaurants worldwide. The hallmark of an excellently prepared Peking duck is its crispy, flavorful skin.

History and Significance: Peking Duck has a long and storied history, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) in China. It became a staple in the imperial court and later gained popularity among the general public during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The dish is traditionally prepared through a meticulous process that involves air-drying the duck, glazing it with a maltose syrup, and roasting it until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender.

National Peking Duck Day celebrates this culinary masterpiece, highlighting its cultural significance and the intricate preparation methods that make it so special. It provides an opportunity for food enthusiasts to savor this delicious dish and explore its history and cultural roots.

How Peking Duck is Made: The preparation of Peking Duck involves several steps:

1. Selection and Preparation: A specially bred duck is chosen for its size and meat quality. The duck is cleaned and seasoned.
2. Air-Drying: The duck is air-dried for several hours or overnight to ensure crispy skin. This is often achieved by inflating the duck to separate the skin from the fat.
3. Glazing: The duck is glazed with a mixture of maltose syrup and water, which helps to caramelize the skin during roasting.
4. Roasting: The duck is roasted in a specially designed oven until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Traditional methods use an open-flame oven.
5. Serving: The duck is typically carved tableside, with the skin served separately from the meat. It is often accompanied by thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and garnishes such as sliced scallions and cucumber.

Ways to Celebrate National Peking Duck Day:

• Dine Out: Visit a local Chinese restaurant known for its Peking Duck. Enjoy the dish in a traditional setting and experience the authentic flavors and presentation.
• Cook at Home: Try making Peking Duck at home using a recipe that guides you through the traditional preparation process. While it may be challenging, the results are rewarding.
• Learn About the Dish: Take time to learn about the history and cultural significance of Peking Duck. Read articles, watch documentaries, or explore cookbooks that delve into Chinese culinary traditions.
• Host a Dinner Party: Invite friends and family over for a Peking Duck dinner. Share the experience of preparing and enjoying this iconic dish together.
• Share on Social Media: Post pictures of your Peking Duck meal on social media using hashtags like #PekingDuckDay and #NationalPekingDuckDay. Connect with other food enthusiasts and share your culinary experiences.

Simple Peking Duck Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 whole duck (about 5-6 pounds)
• 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons maltose syrup or corn syrup
• 1 cup hot water
• Chinese pancakes
• Hoisin sauce
• Sliced scallions and cucumber

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Duck:

   • Clean the duck and pat it dry with paper towels.
   • Rub the duck inside and out with a mixture of five-spice powder and salt.
   • Hang the duck in a cool, dry place or place it on a rack in the refrigerator to air-dry for several hours or overnight.

2. Glaze the Duck:

   • Mix the honey and maltose syrup with hot water until dissolved.
   • Brush the syrup mixture evenly over the duck, ensuring it is fully coated.

3. Roast the Duck:

   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Place the duck on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
   • Roast for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Baste the duck occasionally with the syrup mixture.
   • If necessary, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 10 minutes to achieve extra crispy skin.

4. Serve the Duck:

   • Let the duck rest for a few minutes before carving.
   • Carve the duck into thin slices, separating the crispy skin from the meat.
   • Serve the duck with Chinese pancakes, hoisin sauce, and garnishes such as sliced scallions and cucumber.

Interesting Facts About Peking Duck:

• Cultural Icon: Peking Duck is considered one of the most important dishes in Chinese cuisine and is often served at banquets and special occasions.
• Historical Roots: The dish has been enjoyed for centuries, with historical records dating back to the Yuan Dynasty.
• Popularity: Peking Duck is popular worldwide and is often featured in Chinese restaurants in major cities around the globe.

Conclusion: National Peking Duck Day is a delightful celebration of a culinary classic that has been enjoyed for centuries. By dining out, cooking at home, or learning more about the dish, you can appreciate the rich history and intricate preparation that make Peking Duck so special. Enjoy the flavors, share the experience with loved ones, and take part in the celebration of this iconic dish on January 18th.