National Day January 18 Food & Drink

National Peking Duck Day

Why it matters

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JOIN THE FEAST

Celebrate the art of Peking Duck with a delicious meal that has a rich history.

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━━━━ FAST FACTS ━━━━
WHEN
February 18
ORIGIN
Beijing, China
STAT
Peking Duck dates back to the 13th century
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Over 20 million ducks are served annually in China
VIBE
A festive celebration of culinary heritage
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THE STORY

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Peking Duck is more than just a dish; it is a symbol of Chinese culinary artistry. Originating in Beijing, its history can be traced back to the imperial kitchens of the Yuan Dynasty. The dish is renowned for its crispy skin and tender meat, traditionally served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and sliced vegetables. This culinary masterpiece showcases the intricate techniques of Chinese cooking, captivating food lovers around the globe.

The preparation of Peking Duck is a time-honored tradition that involves air-drying the duck, glazing it with maltose, and roasting it in a wood-fired oven. This meticulous process results in a succulent bird with a delicately crispy skin. Popularized in the West during the 20th century, Peking Duck has become a staple in Chinese restaurants worldwide, celebrated for its unique flavor and presentation.

In America, National Peking Duck Day provides an opportunity for food enthusiasts to delve into this iconic dish. Many restaurants offer special menus or discounts on this day, making it an excellent time to explore local culinary offerings. Additionally, home cooks can find numerous recipes to try their hand at preparing Peking Duck, inviting friends and family to share in the experience.

As you celebrate National Peking Duck Day, take a moment to appreciate the cultural significance of this dish. From its imperial roots to its place in contemporary dining, Peking Duck embodies the essence of Chinese cuisine. Whether dining out or cooking at home, this day is an invitation to gather around the table and enjoy a meal steeped in tradition and flavor.

Food is not just what we eat; it is a reflection of our culture.

— ANONYMOUS
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WORTH KNOWING

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#1
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Explore Chinese Cuisine

Learn about the rich history of Peking Duck and other traditional dishes.

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Dine Out

Support local Chinese restaurants by enjoying a meal on this special day.

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Cook at Home

Try your hand at making Peking Duck with friends or family.

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Share the Experience

Post your Peking Duck meal on social media to celebrate together.

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AROUND THE WORLD

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China

Home of the traditional Peking Duck.

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United States

Peking Duck is popular in many American Chinese restaurants.

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Australia

Culinary enthusiasts enjoy Peking Duck in major cities.

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United Kingdom

Peking Duck is a sought-after dish in London’s Chinese eateries.

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Canada

Canadian cities feature a diverse range of Chinese restaurants.

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Hong Kong

A culinary hub known for its exceptional Peking Duck offerings.

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DID YOU KNOW?!

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TRIVIA

Imperial Dish
Peking Duck was originally served to emperors in ancient China.

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Cooking Method
The duck is roasted until the skin is crispy and the meat tender.

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Global Popularity
Peking Duck is enjoyed in many countries around the world.

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Culinary Techniques
The traditional preparation involves air-drying and glazing the duck.

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Cultural Significance
It represents the artistry of Chinese cooking and dining.

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Side Dishes
It is commonly served with thin pancakes and hoisin sauce.

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Modern Twist
Chefs often experiment with fusion recipes incorporating Peking Duck.

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READ MORE

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COOKBOOK

The Food of China

Fuchsia Dunlop

A comprehensive guide to traditional Chinese recipes, including Peking Duck.

CULINARY HISTORY

A History of Chinese Cuisine

Deh-Ta Hsiung

Explore the evolution of Chinese dishes through the ages.

CULINARY TECHNIQUES

Chinese Cooking Demystified

Judy Lee

Learn essential techniques for cooking authentic Chinese meals.

TRAVEL & FOOD

Eating China: A Culinary Journey

Kristin G. Hsu

Discover the regional specialties of Chinese cuisine, including Peking Duck.

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PAIR IT WITH

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PAIR WITH

Chopsticks for authentic dining.

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BEST WITH

A fruity red wine.

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ENJOY ALONGSIDE

Chinese tea for a traditional experience.

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SERVED WITH

Thin pancakes and fresh vegetables.

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Celebrate Peking Duck Day

Join us in honoring National Peking Duck Day by enjoying this iconic dish, whether at a restaurant or in your kitchen.

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Looking for the official National Day Calendar page? Open National Peking Duck Day on NationalDayCalendar.com →