Peking Duck: A Royal Dish Journey

Peking Duck is more than a dish—it's a culinary icon that has captivated diners for over 600 years. From its origins in the imperial kitchens of Beijing to tables around the world, this dish represents the pinnacle of Chinese gastronomy.

Imperial Origins

The first recipe for roast duck appeared in texts from the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), but Peking Duck as we know it was perfected during the Ming Dynasty. It became a favorite of emperors and the aristocracy, prepared by the most skilled chefs in the palace kitchens. When the capital moved from Nanjing to Beijing, the dish followed — and Quanjude, Beijing's most famous duck restaurant, has been serving it continuously since 1864.

The Perfect Preparation

Creating authentic Peking Duck requires days of preparation. The duck is inflated with air to separate the skin from the fat, glazed with maltose, and left to dry in a cool, ventilated space for 24 to 48 hours. This drying process is essential — it draws moisture from the skin, ensuring it becomes impossibly crispy when roasted. The duck is then hung inside a wood-fired oven, where fruitwood smoke adds a subtle sweetness to the lacquered skin.

How to Eat Peking Duck

Peking Duck is traditionally served in three courses. The first course features the prized skin, served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, sliced scallions, and cucumber. Diners place a few pieces of crispy skin on a pancake, add condiments, and roll it into a small wrap — the contrast of textures and flavors in each bite is extraordinary. The second course uses the remaining meat in a stir-fry with vegetables. The third course transforms the carcass into a rich duck bone soup, ensuring nothing is wasted.

The Art of Carving

A master carver can produce over 120 paper-thin slices from a single duck. Each piece should include both meat and crispy skin, arranged on the plate with precision. The carving itself is a performance — at traditional restaurants, the chef carves tableside with theatrical skill. At Hong Kong Palace in Falls Church, we honor this tradition, ensuring every slice is perfectly presented. View our menu or order online to try it yourself, and consider reserving a table for the full tableside experience.