Peking Roasted Duck: Beijing’s Iconic Crispy Skin Delicacy

Peking duck (北京烤鸭 Běijīng kǎoyā) is a famous dish from Beijing, enjoying world fame, and considered one of China’s national dishes. Known for its incredibly thin and crispy skin, Peking Duck is a delicacy that embodies centuries of Chinese culinary refinement. It is traditionally sliced and served with steamed pancakes, sweet bean sauce, or soy sauce mixed with mashed garlic, offering a delicious combination of flavors and textures.

A Cultural and Culinary Treasure

This dish is more than a meal; it’s a cultural experience. Often referred to as “the first dish to taste in China,” Peking Roasted Duck was originally a royal specialty during medieval China. Its reputation grew from the palaces of emperors to the dinner tables of ordinary people, eventually gaining international acclaim.

China’s National Dish of Diplomacy

In the 1970s, under the leadership of Premier Zhou Enlai, it evolved into a powerful tool of culinary diplomacy. Peking Duck was famously served at state banquets to welcome foreign dignitaries, making it a “national dish of diplomacy.” Since then, it has been widely praised by world leaders, government officials, and travelers alike.

 

A Must-Taste Experience

Whether you’re dining in a historic Beijing restaurant or trying it abroad, Peking Roasted Duck is a must-taste dish that offers not only exquisite flavor but also a rich cultural story behind every bite.