38 Facts About Peking

Peking Duck: A Culinary Icon

Peking Duck isn't just a dish; it's a symbol of Chinese culinary mastery. This delicacy has a rich history and unique preparation that sets it apart from other dishes. Here are some fascinating facts about Peking Duck.

1. 01Ancient Origins: Peking Duck dates back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), making it over 700 years old.
2. 02Imperial Beginnings: Initially, it was a dish reserved for Chinese emperors and their courts.
3. 03First Cookbook Mention: The first recorded recipe for Peking Duck appeared in a cookbook during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).

Preparation Techniques

The preparation of Peking Duck is an art form. Each step is crucial to achieving the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat.

4. 04Air Pumping: Air is pumped between the skin and meat to separate them, ensuring the skin crisps up beautifully.
5. 05Boiling Water Bath: The duck is scalded with boiling water to tighten the skin.
6. 06Honey Glaze: A honey glaze is applied to the skin, giving it a sweet flavor and golden color.
7. 07Drying Process: The duck is hung to dry for 24 hours, allowing the skin to become even crisper during roasting.
8. 08Open-Flame Roasting: Traditionally, Peking Duck is roasted in a wood-fired oven, often using fruitwood for a subtle, smoky flavor.

Serving Traditions

The way Peking Duck is served is just as important as its preparation. Each element complements the others to create a harmonious dining experience.

9. 09Three Courses: A traditional Peking Duck meal includes three courses: the skin, the meat, and a soup made from the duck's bones.
10. 10Pancakes and Hoisin Sauce: The crispy skin and tender meat are wrapped in thin pancakes with hoisin sauce, scallions, and cucumber.
11. 11Carving at the Table: The duck is often carved tableside, showcasing the chef's skill and adding to the dining experience.
12. 12Number of Slices: A skilled chef can carve a duck into exactly 120 slices, each with a piece of skin and meat.

Cultural Significance

Peking Duck holds a special place in Chinese culture and has even made its mark internationally.

13. 13Symbol of Hospitality: Serving Peking Duck is a sign of respect and hospitality in Chinese culture.
14. 14State Banquets: It is often served at state banquets to honor foreign dignitaries.
15. 15Global Popularity: Peking Duck has become a beloved dish worldwide, with famous restaurants dedicated to its preparation in cities like Beijing, New York, and London.
16. 16UNESCO Recognition: The culinary techniques used to prepare Peking Duck are recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage.

Nutritional Facts

While Peking Duck is a treat, it's also interesting to know what you're consuming.

17. 17Caloric Content: A serving of Peking Duck (with skin) contains approximately 340 calories.
18. 18Protein-Rich: It is a good source of protein, providing about 20 grams per serving.
19. 19Fat Content: The dish is high in fat, with around 28 grams per serving, primarily from the crispy skin.
20. 20Vitamins and Minerals: Peking Duck is rich in B vitamins, iron, and selenium.

Fun Facts

Here are some quirky and lesser-known facts about Peking Duck that might surprise you.

21. 21Duck Breeds: The preferred breed for Peking Duck is the White Beijing Duck, known for its tender meat.
22. 22Cooking Time: The entire process, from preparation to serving, can take up to 72 hours.
23. 23Duck Farms: Special farms in Beijing raise ducks specifically for this dish, ensuring the highest quality.
24. 24Celebrity Favorite: Many celebrities, including former U.S. President Richard Nixon, have enjoyed Peking Duck during their visits to China.
25. 25Duck Fat Uses: The rendered duck fat is often used in other dishes, adding a rich flavor.

Modern Twists

While traditional Peking Duck remains popular, chefs around the world have put their own spin on this classic dish.

26. 26Fusion Cuisine: Some chefs incorporate Peking Duck into tacos, pizzas, and even sushi.
27. 27Vegetarian Versions: Creative chefs have developed vegetarian versions using ingredients like tofu and mushrooms to mimic the texture and flavor.
28. 28Innovative Sauces: Beyond hoisin, modern versions might include sauces like plum, orange, or even spicy sriracha.

Peking Duck in Pop Culture

Peking Duck has made appearances in various forms of media, reflecting its cultural significance.

29. 29Movies and TV: It has been featured in movies like "The Last Emperor" and TV shows like "MasterChef."
30. 30Literature: Peking Duck is mentioned in numerous books, both fiction and non-fiction, highlighting its importance in Chinese cuisine.
31. 31Art: Traditional Chinese paintings and modern artworks often depict Peking Duck, celebrating its culinary artistry.

Peking Duck Restaurants

Some restaurants have become famous solely for their Peking Duck, drawing food enthusiasts from around the globe.

32. 32Quanjude: Established in 1864 in Beijing, Quanjude is one of the most famous Peking Duck restaurants in the world.
33. 33Da Dong: Known for its innovative approach, Da Dong offers a lighter, less fatty version of Peking Duck.
34. 34Made in China: Located in the Grand Hyatt Beijing, this restaurant is renowned for its authentic Peking Duck.

Cooking Peking Duck at Home

While challenging, cooking Peking Duck at home can be a rewarding experience.

35. 35Recipe Resources: Numerous cookbooks and online tutorials provide step-by-step instructions for home cooks.
36. 36Special Equipment: A few specialized tools, like an air pump and a roasting rack, can make the process easier.
37. 37Patience Required: The key to a successful homemade Peking Duck is patience and attention to detail.
38. 38Rewarding Experience: Despite the effort, the satisfaction of creating this iconic dish at home is unparalleled.

Final Thoughts on Pekingese Dogs

Pekingese dogs are more than just adorable companions. Their royal history, distinctive appearance, and unique personalities make them stand out. These little dogs have a big heart and a loyal nature that endears them to many. They might be small, but their bravery and independence are impressive. Whether you're drawn to their luxurious coats or their regal demeanor, Pekingese dogs offer a lot of love and companionship. Understanding their needs and quirks helps in providing the best care. From their ancient origins to their modern-day charm, Pekingese dogs continue to capture hearts worldwide. If you're considering adding one to your family, you're in for a delightful experience. These dogs bring a touch of history, a lot of love, and a bit of royalty into any home.