Best Aromatic Duck

Best Aromatic Duck

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of this classic Chinese dish, Aromatic Duck. Known for its tender and flavorful meat, this dish is a perfect balance of spices and aromatics that will leave your taste buds delighted.

Description
Aromatic Duck is a traditional Chinese dish that involves marinating duck in a mixture of spices, then roasting it to create a deliciously crispy skin and succulent meat. The dish is often served with thin pancakes, spring onions, cucumber, and hoisin sauce, allowing you to create your own perfect bite. This recipe provides step-by-step instructions to help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

Ingredients:
– 1 whole duck (about 2-3 kg)
– 2 tablespoons five-spice powder
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorns
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 tablespoons soy sauce
– 4 tablespoons rice wine or dry sherry
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 green onions, chopped

For Serving:
– Thin pancakes or Mandarin pancakes
– Hoisin sauce
– Sliced spring onions
– Sliced cucumber

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Duck:
1. Clean the duck and pat it dry inside and out with paper towels. Trim any excess fat.
2. Prick the skin of the duck all over with a fork or skewer, being careful not to pierce the meat.

2. Create the Marinade:
1. In a small bowl, combine the five-spice powder, salt, sugar, and Sichuan peppercorns.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the duck, making sure to get it inside the cavity as well.
3. Mix the minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, rice wine, and honey in a separate bowl.

3. Marinate the Duck:
1. Place the duck in a large resealable bag or a container.
2. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the duck, ensuring it is well coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.

4. Roast the Duck:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Place the marinated duck on a rack in a roasting pan.
3. Roast the duck in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the pan juices every 30 minutes.
4. Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the last 20 minutes to crisp up the skin.
5. Once done, let the duck rest for 10 minutes before carving.

5. Serve the Aromatic Duck:
1. Carve the duck into thin slices.
2. Serve with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, sliced spring onions, and cucumber.

Enjoy the aromatic and flavorful experience of this Best Aromatic Duck, perfect for a special family dinner or gathering with friends!