Roasted duck for mid-autumn festival

The Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, is a cherished event across Chinese communities worldwide, known for its family reunions and delightful moon gazing. Central to this festival is the theme of reunion and thanksgiving, symbolized by the full moon's perfect roundness.

Food plays an integral role in this celebration, with each dish carrying profound cultural significance. Among these, roasted duck stands out as a favorite, renowned not only for its succulent flavor but also as a symbol of fidelity and unity.

As families gather to reflect on blessings and express hopes for future prosperity, the roasted duck serves as more than just a meal; it is a centerpiece that brings everyone together, enhancing the festival's spirit of harmony and joy.

This recipe for roasted duck, prepared with traditional spices and a modern citrus twist, offers a perfect blend of rich flavors and cultural heritage, making it an ideal choice for the Mid-Autumn Festival feast.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Begin by cleaning the duck thoroughly. Remove any pin feathers and innards, rinse under cold water, and pat dry with paper towels. This ensures the skin will crisp up beautifully.
  2. Marinate:
    • In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, five-spice powder, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the marinade.
    • Rub the marinade inside and outside of the duck, ensuring it is evenly coated.
    • Season the duck with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Stuff the cavity of the duck with orange slices to infuse it with a fresh, citrusy aroma that provides a modern twist to the traditional recipe.
  3. Roast:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Place the duck breast side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roasting on a rack allows fat to drip away and helps the skin become crisp.
    • Roast the duck for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the skin is golden brown and crisp, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    • Baste the duck with its own juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
  4. Rest and Serve:
    • Allow the duck to rest for at least 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it is succulent and tender.
    • Carve the duck and serve garnished with fresh cilantro for an added touch of freshness.

roasted duck recipe by asia market

Variations

  • Szechuan Style: Add Szechuan peppercorns to the marinade for a spicy kick.
  • Honey Glazed: Increase the honey in the marinade for a sweeter, stickier exterior.

Modern Twist

Incorporating orange slices not only adds a modern twist but also enhances the duck's flavor with a subtle, fruity sweetness that complements the richness of the meat.

Personal Cooking Suggestions

  • Always ensure the duck is thoroughly dry before marinating to achieve the crispiest skin.
  • Investing in a good quality roasting pan and rack will make a significant difference in cooking evenly and achieving the perfect crispness without the meat becoming too dry.

Enjoy this roasted duck as the centerpiece of your Mid-Autumn Festival feast, surrounded by loved ones and traditional sides like steamed buns, rice, or stir-fried vegetables. This dish not only brings a taste of Chinese heritage to your table but also symbolizes a hearty celebration of family and togetherness.