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Crispy Duck at Peking Chef

Photo by @PlatePicSample

chinese - Main Course

Crispy Peking-Style Duck

Experience the allure of Crispy Peking-Style Duck, where the skin is perfectly crisped to a golden hue and the meat remains tender and flavorful. Infused with aromatic spices and a rich soy marinade, this dish is a symphony of textures and tastes. Paired with hoisin sauce and fresh cucumbers, it offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet, with a hint of freshness. This home version captures the essence of its restaurant counterpart, providing a luxurious culinary experience in your kitchen.

Prep Time
15 min
🍳
Cook Time
45 min
👥
Servings
4
📊
Difficulty
Hard

Cooking Timeline

Start 60 minutes total
15m
5m
30m
10m
15m
45m
10m
10m
10m

🛒 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

For the Sauce/Marinade

Aromatics & Seasonings

For Cooking

To Serve & Garnish

4

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1

Mise en Place

15 min

Prepare all your ingredients by cleaning the duck, slicing the spring onions and ginger, mincing the garlic, and measuring out the sauces and spices. Having everything ready before you start cooking ensures a smooth kitchen workflow.

💡 Tip: Pat the duck completely dry inside and out to achieve the crispiest skin.

2

Prepare the Marinade

5 min

In a bowl, combine light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ginger slices. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well-combined.

💡 Tip: Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.

3

Marinate the Duck

30 min

Place the duck in a large dish and pour the marinade over, ensuring the cavity is filled with some of the liquid. Leave it to marinate for 30 minutes, turning halfway through.

💡 Tip: Use a ziplock bag to marinate more evenly and save space in the fridge.

4

Preheat the Oven

10 min

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) while you prepare the sauce and set up for roasting.

💡 Tip: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing the duck in for even cooking.

5

Prepare the Sauce

15 min

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the reserved marinade and chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and reduce by half until slightly thickened.

💡 Tip: Strain the sauce to remove any solid pieces for a smooth finish.

6

Roast the Duck

45 min

Place the marinated duck on a roasting rack set over a baking tray. Roast in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, basting occasionally with the sauce.

💡 Tip: For extra crispiness, increase the oven temperature to 220°C (428°F) for the last 10 minutes.

7

Prepare Pancakes and Garnishes

10 min

Warm the Chinese pancakes according to packet instructions and prepare garnishes such as julienned cucumber and fresh coriander.

💡 Tip: Keep pancakes warm in a low oven or wrapped in a clean tea towel.

8

Rest the Duck

10 min

Once the duck is cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.

💡 Tip: Tent the duck with foil to keep it warm while resting.

9

Carve and Serve

10 min

Carve the duck into thin slices and serve with warm pancakes, cucumber, spring onions, and extra hoisin sauce. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

💡 Tip: Arrange slices neatly on a platter for a professional presentation.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Ensure the duck skin is thoroughly dry before roasting for optimal crispiness.
  • Let the duck come to room temperature before roasting for even cooking.
  • Check the doneness by piercing the thigh; juices should run clear.
  • Marinate the duck a day in advance for deeper flavor penetration.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheat in the oven to keep the skin crispy.
  • Serve on a large platter with garnishes arranged attractively for a restaurant-style presentation.

📊 Nutrition Facts (per serving)

450
Calories
28g
Protein
45g
Carbs
22g
Fat
8g
Saturated Fat
4g
Fiber
6g
Sugar
890mg
Sodium

🪄 Equipment Needed

Large heavy-bottomed frying pan or skillet Sharp chef's knife Wooden cutting board Measuring spoons and cups Kitchen timer Roasting rack Baking tray Small saucepan

🔄 Variations to Try

Vegetarian/Vegan version: Replace duck with marinated tofu or seitan, adjust cooking time accordingly.
Spicier version: Add 1-2 tsp of chili paste to the marinade for an extra kick.
Lighter/Healthier version: Use skinless duck breast and reduce the amount of sugar in the marinade.
Quick weeknight version: Use pre-cooked duck breast and pre-made pancakes to save time.
Luxury version: Use a high-end duck like Aylesbury or Pekin for a more authentic taste.

🍽 Pairs Well With

Pair with a light Pinot Noir to complement the rich duck flavors. A crisp lager beer works well to cut through the fattiness. For a non-alcoholic option, try a jasmine tea to cleanse the palate. Serve with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. A side of plum sauce can add a sweet and tangy contrast.

This recipe was inspired by a plate submission on Plate Pic

Recipe inspired by plate submission from @PlatePicSample at Peking Chef