National Peking Duck Day

A chef expertly slicing and serving crispy Peking duck, in a vibrant Chinese restaurant, surrounded by red lanterns and chopstick-adorned tables.. — National peking duck day illustration

Welcome to the deliciously delightful world of National Peking Duck Day! Prepare yourself for a succulent journey through the crispy, flavorful wonder that is Peking duck. Whether you're a duck enthusiast or simply embrace any excuse to indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, this day is dedicated to celebrating one of the most renowned dishes of Chinese cuisine.

When is Peking Duck Day?

It's national peking duck day on the 18th January.

A Brief History of Peking Duck

Did you know that Peking duck has been enjoyed for hundreds of years? It originated in the imperial kitchens of China's Ming Dynasty but gained widespread popularity during the Qing Dynasty. The dish was traditionally prepared for the emperor and his royal court, making it a symbol of high craftsmanship and culinary excellence.

The preparation of Peking duck is an art form in itself. The process involves inflating the duck with air to separate the skin from the meat, glazing it with a sweet and savory sauce, and then roasting it until the skin turns golden and crispy. The result is a succulent masterpiece that boasts tender meat and a delectable, melt-in-your-mouth skin.

While Peking duck was once reserved for the elite, it eventually made its way out of the imperial palaces and into the hearts (and stomachs) of people around the world. Today, it remains a celebrated culinary treasure loved by countless food enthusiasts.

How to Celebrate National Peking Duck Day

If you're hungry for a taste of Peking duck, there are various ways to join in the celebration. You can visit your favorite Chinese restaurant known for its authentic Peking duck and savor every bite. Alternatively, you could even try your hand at making it yourself! While the traditional preparation may take some time, the end result is well worth the effort.

Invite friends and loved ones to share in the finger-licking goodness of Peking duck, or make it a romantic date night by enjoying a candlelit dinner featuring this delectable dish. Remember to pair it with steamed pancakes, scallions, cucumber, and hoisin sauce for the full authentic experience.

Did You Know?

Did you know that Peking duck holds a legendary status in Beijing? It is said that the dish was one of the favorite delicacies of the Emperor Qianlong, who ruled during the Qing Dynasty. According to the legend, the emperor once loved the crispy skin of Peking duck so much that he demanded all roasted ducks to be served with the skin only, leading to the invention of the famous dish we know and love today.

History behind the term 'Peking Duck'

1330

Origins of Roast Duck in China

Roast duck has a long history in China, tracing back to the Yuan Dynasty in 1330. It was initially served in the royal palaces and enjoyed by the imperial court. The method of preparing the duck involved marinating it with spices, then hanging and roasting it in an open oven to achieve a crispy skin and juicy meat. This traditional style of roasted duck laid the foundation for the development of Peking Duck as we know it today.

1416

Introduction of Peking Duck in Beijing

During the early Ming Dynasty in 1416, Peking Duck made its way to Beijing. The imperial court relocated to Beijing, bringing along their culinary traditions, including the tradition of enjoying roast duck. The dish became highly popular among the locals, and the unique flavors and cooking techniques started to evolve in the capital city. The term 'Peking Duck' was coined to represent this regional variation of roast duck.

1864

First Peking Duck Restaurant

In 1864, the first Peking Duck restaurant named 'Quanjude' was established in Beijing. Quanjude played a pivotal role in popularizing Peking Duck within China and later around the world. The restaurant specialized in roasting ducks using a complicated process that involved inflating the duck like a balloon and roasting it in an enclosed oven fueled by fruitwood. This unique cooking method further enhanced the duck's texture and flavor, attracting a wide range of customers.

1935

Peking Duck as a National Symbol

By the 1930s, Peking Duck had become a national symbol of Chinese cuisine. Its succulent meat, crispy skin, and rich flavors were recognized far beyond Beijing. The dish gained popularity among foreign diplomats, travelers, and even Chinese emigrants. Peking Duck became synonymous with Chinese culinary excellence and was often served to visiting dignitaries, showcasing the cultural and gastronomic heritage of China to the world.

1974

Chinese Cuisine Goes Global

With the globalization of Chinese culture and cuisine, Peking Duck began to appear on menus worldwide. In 1974, the renowned Quanjude restaurant opened its first overseas branch in Stockholm, Sweden. This marked the beginning of Peking Duck's international journey, captivating taste buds around the globe. Today, Peking Duck is celebrated as one of China's most iconic dishes and has become a symbol of Chinese culinary mastery and cultural heritage.