peking duck

Recipe for Peking Duck:

Ingredients:

- 1 whole duck (about 5-6 pounds)

- 2 tablespoons Chinese five-spice powder

- 2 tablespoons sugar

- 2 tablespoons salt

- 1 tablespoon white vinegar

- 4 cups boiling water

- 2 tablespoons honey

- 2 tablespoons maltose or corn syrup

- 1/4 cup soy sauce

- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce

- 1 cucumber, cut into matchstick-sized strips

- 12-15 thin scallions, cut into 4-inch pieces

- 24-30 Mandarin pancakes (available in Asian markets)

- Hoisin sauce, for serving

Instructions:

1. Clean the duck: Rinse the duck inside and out, and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat from the neck and body cavities.

2. Prepare the seasoning mixture: In a small bowl, mix the Chinese five-spice powder, sugar, and salt. Rub this mixture all over the duck, inside and out. Let it sit for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

3. Hang the duck: Hang the duck in a cool, well-ventilated place for about 24 hours to allow the skin to dry out. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.

4. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

5. Prepare the duck for roasting: In a small bowl, mix the white vinegar and boiling water. Carefully pour this mixture over the duck, making sure to evenly coat the skin. This helps tighten the skin and render out more fat during cooking.

6. Roast the duck: Place the duck on a rack in a roasting pan, breast-side up. Roast for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Every 30 minutes, baste the duck with a mixture of honey and maltose or corn syrup. This will give the skin a shiny glaze.

7. Prepare the serving sauce: In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce and hoisin sauce. Set it aside for serving.

8. Slice the duck: Once the duck is cooked and the skin is crispy, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Carve the duck into thin slices, including both the skin and meat.

9. Assemble the pancakes: To serve, spread a thin layer of hoisin sauce on each Mandarin pancake. Place a few slices of duck on top, along with cucumber strips and scallions. Roll up the pancake and enjoy.

Peking duck is typically served with steamed pancakes, hoisin sauce, and a side of cucumber and scallion garnish. You can also add other condiments such as sliced garlic or pickled radish if desired. Enjoy your homemade Peking duck.