Nanjing Salted Duck

Nanjing Salted Duck is a popular dish that originated in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China. It's great that you can find it in restaurants in the USA! Here's a brief introduction to help you learn more about this delicious dish:

What is Nanjing Salted Duck?

Nanjing Salted Duck, also known as Nanjing Salt-Baked Duck, is a traditional Chinese dish that has been around for centuries. The dish is named after Nanjing, the capital city of Jiangsu Province in Eastern China. It's a type of roasted duck that's been marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and spices before being slow-cooked to perfection.

Preparation

The preparation process is labor-intensive and requires great skill. The duck is first marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, and spices for several hours or overnight. The duck is then hung to dry, and the excess moisture is removed. The duck is then slow-cooked in a controlled-temperature oven or a traditional wood-fired oven for several hours, which helps to achieve a crispy skin and tender meat.

Flavor Profile

The flavors of Nanjing Salted Duck are complex and rich. The soy sauce and sugar in the marinade create a sweet and savory glaze, while the Shaoxing wine adds a subtle fruitiness. The spices, including cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, add warmth and depth to the dish. The duck meat is tender and juicy, with a crispy skin that's both crunchy and caramelized.

Serving Style

Nanjing Salted Duck is typically served whole, with the head and feet still attached. The dish is often garnished with steamed pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce, allowing diners to wrap their own "duck pancakes." Other accompaniments may include steamed bok choy or other vegetables.

Where to Find it in the USA

You can find Nanjing Salted Duck in many Chinese restaurants across the USA, particularly in cities with large Chinese populations such as New York City, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Look for restaurants that specialize in Jiangsu or Nanjing cuisine, as they're more likely to offer this dish.

Tips for Ordering

When ordering Nanjing Salted Duck, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Ask if the restaurant offers the whole duck or just the duck meat.

2. Check if they have any specials or combos that include the duck, pancakes, and vegetables.

3. Don't be afraid to ask for extra pancakes or sauce if you need them.

4. Be prepared for a richer and more filling meal due to the duck's crispy skin and savory glaze.

Now that you know more about Nanjing Salted Duck, go ahead and give it a try!