A Foreigner's Survival Guide to Ordering and Eating Peking Duck in Beijing

A Foreigner’s Survival Guide to Ordering and Eating Peking Duck in Beijing

Welcome to Beijing, the capital city of China! If you are a foreigner visiting this vibrant city, one culinary experience you cannot miss is indulging in the famous Peking Duck. Known for its crispy skin and succulent meat, Peking Duck is a delicacy that has been enjoyed by locals and tourists alike for centuries. To ensure you make the most of your Peking Duck dining experience, we have prepared this survival guide just for you!

1. Choose the Right Restaurant

When it comes to experiencing authentic Peking Duck, selecting the right restaurant is key. Look for renowned establishments with a history of serving this iconic dish. Some well-known Peking Duck restaurants in Beijing include Quanjude, Bianyifang, and Dadong. Reading online reviews and seeking recommendations from locals can also help you find hidden gems.

2. Making a Reservation

To avoid disappointment, it is highly recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially if you plan on visiting a popular restaurant during peak hours. Beijing can get crowded, and Peking Duck is a sought-after delicacy. Making a reservation ensures you won’t miss out on this gastronomic delight.

3. Order the Peking Duck

Once you are seated and ready to indulge, it’s time to order the star of the show – the Peking Duck! Most restaurants offer different options for ordering the duck, so make sure to understand the menu. Ordering a whole duck is the traditional way and allows you to savor every part of this delicacy. However, if you have a smaller appetite, you can also opt for half a duck or even a single serving.

4. The Art of Eating Peking Duck

Eating Peking Duck is not just about the taste; it’s an experience in itself. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to enjoy it like a local:

Appreciating the presentation: When the duck comes to your table, take a moment to appreciate the beautifully crispy skin and the tender meat. It’s a feast for the eyes!
Thinly sliced skin: The chef will skillfully carve the duck tableside, primarily focusing on the crispy skin. The skin is usually served first and is best enjoyed by dipping it in a tangy hoisin sauce, wrapping it in thin pancakes, and adding some cucumber and spring onion for an extra crunch.
Enjoying the meat: After relishing the crispy skin, the remaining juicy meat is typically served with pancakes or steamed buns, along with condiments like garlic paste, sugar, and soy sauce. Create your own perfect combination of flavors by adding these condiments to your preference.

5. Savoring the Accompaniments

Peking Duck is often accompanied by complimentary dishes that enhance the overall dining experience. These may include soups, stir-fried vegetables, and various appetizers. Don’t forget to try them and immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine.

6. Finish with a Sweet Ending

After relishing the main course, wrap up your Peking Duck experience with a sweet treat. Traditional desserts like red bean pancakes or sesame balls are popular choices. Alternatively, you can enjoy a refreshing bowl of seasonal fruits to cleanse your palate.

Remember, to truly appreciate Peking Duck, take your time to savor each bite and relish the unique flavors. The experience goes beyond just eating; it’s about immersing yourself in the rich culinary history of Beijing.

Now that you have this survival guide, venture into the bustling streets of Beijing with confidence, find a reputable Peking Duck restaurant, and embark on a gastronomic journey you won’t forget!

Want to learn more about this topic or share your own experiences with ordering Peking duck in Beijing? Join the discussion in the World Cuisines forum section and let us know your thoughts on “A Foreigner’s Survival Guide To Ordering And Eating Peking Duck In Beijing”!

FAQ:

How do I order Peking Duck in Beijing?

To order Peking Duck in Beijing, you can simply ask a waiter or waitress in a Beijing-style roast duck restaurant for “Peking Duck” or “Beijing Kao Ya” in Mandarin. Most staff members in these restaurants are accustomed to serving foreigners and will be able to understand your request. Additionally, many menus in these restaurants have an English translation, so you can look for “Peking Duck” there as well.

How is Peking Duck served in Beijing?

Peking Duck is traditionally served with thin pancakes, slices of crispy duck skin, scallions, cucumber, and hoisin sauce. The waiter or waitress will bring a platter with the whole roasted duck to your table and skillfully carve it for you. The duck skin, along with a layer of fat beneath it, is usually separated from the meat and placed on a separate plate. The meat is then sliced and served separately. The pancakes, vegetables, and hoisin sauce are provided for you to assemble your own duck wraps.

Can I eat Peking Duck with my hands?

While it is not common to eat Peking Duck with your hands in Beijing, it is acceptable to do so if you prefer. However, using chopsticks or a fork and knife is the more traditional way of enjoying this delicacy. Eating with utensils allows for better control when assembling the duck wraps and ensures that you can fully savor each flavor component.

What is the proper way to eat Peking Duck in Beijing?

To enjoy Peking Duck in Beijing, start by taking a pancake and spreading a small amount of hoisin sauce onto it. Next, add a few slices of crispy duck skin, followed by a few strips of meat, some scallions, and cucumber. Roll the pancake tightly and take a bite. The combination of flavors, textures, and the contrast between the rich duck meat and the fresh vegetables is what makes Peking Duck a unique and delicious experience.

How many pancakes should I eat with Peking Duck?

The number of pancakes you eat with Peking Duck is entirely up to your personal preferences and appetite. It is common for each person to eat around 2 to 3 pancakes per serving of duck. However, if you find yourself enjoying the flavor combination and want to indulge in more, feel free to have as many pancakes as you like. Just be sure to leave room to fully savor the other dishes that Beijing has to offer!

Can I take leftover Peking Duck with me?

Certainly! If you are unable to finish all the Peking Duck on your plate, you can ask the waiter or waitress to pack up the leftovers for you. They will usually provide you with a take-out container to conveniently bring the remaining duck home. Keep in mind that reheating the duck may affect its crispiness, but it can still be enjoyed as a flavorful snack or in other dishes.

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A Foreigner’s Survival Guide To Ordering And Eating Peking Duck In Beijing