January 18: National Peking Duck Day

Hey there, foodies! Get ready to quack up because today we're celebrating National Peking Duck Day! It's time to put on your culinary cap and dive into the delicious world of this iconic Chinese dish. So, grab your chopsticks and let's waddle our way through the history, preparation, and enjoyment of this mouthwatering delicacy.

What's the story behind Peking Duck?

Legend has it that Peking Duck dates back to the imperial era of China. It was a favorite dish of the emperors and was served in the royal court. Talk about fancy feathers! The dish gained popularity and eventually became a staple in Chinese cuisine. Now, it's enjoyed by people all around the globe.

How is Peking Duck prepared?

Preparing Peking Duck is no walk in the park. It requires a meticulous process that results in a crispy skin and succulent meat. The duck is first marinated with a combination of spices, including soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Then, it's hung to dry for several hours. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin. Finally, the duck is roasted in a special oven until it turns a beautiful golden brown. It's like a sunbathing session for the duck, but with a tastier outcome!

How do you enjoy Peking Duck?

Now comes the fun part – eating! Peking Duck is typically served with thin pancakes, scallions, cucumber, and hoisin sauce. To enjoy it, you take a pancake, spread a dollop of hoisin sauce, add a few slices of duck, and top it off with some scallions and cucumber. Roll it up like a burrito and take a big, satisfying bite. It's a flavor explosion in your mouth that will make you quack with delight!

Where can you celebrate National Peking Duck Day?

If you're craving some Peking Duck but don't feel like cooking, fear not! Many Chinese restaurants around the world offer this delectable dish. Whether you're in Beijing, New York, London, or Sydney, you're bound to find a restaurant that serves up a mean Peking Duck. So, gather your friends, make a reservation, and get ready to indulge in this culinary masterpiece.

Final thoughts

So, on this National Peking Duck Day, let's raise our chopsticks and give a toast to this iconic dish. Whether you're a seasoned Peking Duck enthusiast or a newbie to the world of crispy duck goodness, take the opportunity to celebrate and savor this culinary delight. Remember, life is too short to quack around – indulge in some Peking Duck and let your taste buds soar!