Crispy Pepper Skin Duckling

Prep: 40 min Cook: 120 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Chinese

Crispy Pepper Skin Duckling features tender, flavorful meat with a crisp, peppery skin, perfect for special occasions or festive gatherings seeking rich, aromatic Chinese-style poultry.

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Ingredients

  • 1 duckling (about 3 1/3 lb.)
  • 3 green onions
  • 4 slices ginger root
  • 2 Tbsp. cooking wine or sherry
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. peppercorns
  • 1 star anise
  • 1 Tbsp. soy sauce
  • oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Combine salt, peppercorns, star anise, ginger slices, green onions, and cooking wine or sherry; rub the mixture on the surface and inside the cavity of the duckling.
  2. Marinate the duckling for 30 minutes.
  3. Steam the duckling over high heat for 2 hours or until tender.
  4. Remove the duckling from the steamer while still hot.
  5. Rub 1 tablespoon soy sauce onto the hot duckling to enhance flavor and skin crispness.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of five-spice powder to the marinade. If you don't have duckling, a small chicken can be a suitable substitute, though cooking times will vary. Ensure the duckling is well-patted dry before frying for the crispiest skin. To enhance the dish's complexity, try serving it alongside Won Ton Chicken Salad.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Pepper Skin Duckling is best served with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a light soy dipping sauce or a sweet and sour glaze. This dish pairs wonderfully with Cajun Fried Rice(Handed Down From Generation To Generation) for a unique twist. Garnish with sliced green onions for an added touch.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover duckling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the duckling in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. For crispier skin, broil for the last 5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Crispy Pepper Skin Duckling contains roughly 305 calories, with 9g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and iron (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2254mg per serving (98% of the Daily Value).

305 kcal 15% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.8g 18% DV
Total Fat 28.6g 37% DV
Carbs 5g 2% DV
Fiber 1.1g 4% DV
Sugar 0.5g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2254.2mg 98% DV
Potassium 199.8mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 34mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4.5mcg
Vitamin C 3.1mg 3% DV
Calcium 43.9mg 3% DV
Iron 2.7mg 15% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Soy

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I achieve extra crispy skin on the duckling?

To achieve extra crispy skin, ensure the duckling is thoroughly dried before frying and consider using a higher temperature for frying. Also, applying the soy sauce while the duck is still hot helps the skin crisp up nicely.

Can I prepare the duckling ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the duckling the night before and steam it the next day. Just ensure you cover it well in the refrigerator to prevent any cross-contamination with other foods.

What side dishes complement this duckling recipe?

This dish pairs well with various sides, such as stir-fried bok choy, jasmine rice, or even a light cucumber salad to balance the richness of the duck. For a unique flavor combination, try serving it with Pineapple Duck A La Theresa Shea.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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