Introduction to a Non-Traditional Thanksgiving
As Thanksgiving approaches, many families are preparing for the traditional turkey dinner. However, for some, especially in Asian communities, duck is the preferred protein of choice. According to Johnny Cheung, owner of Hong Kong Food Street, eating duck is culturally significant for Asian populations, especially Chinese communities.
The Cultural Significance of Duck
Cheung explains that turkeys aren’t a dominant protein in Chinese culture, and as a result, duck or goose is often the main event for the holiday. However, goose farms are few and far between, and wild geese don’t always taste great. Ducks, on the other hand, have a higher fat content, which means more flavor, and are a more convenient option.
The Art of Preparing Beijing Duck
At Hong Kong Food Street, duck reigns supreme. The restaurant sources high-quality birds from a generational Pennsylvania farm specializing in whole Pekin ducks. The Cantonese restaurant has historically doled out its usual poultry offerings, but during Thanksgiving, ducks are in higher demand. Dishes like Hong Kong–style roasted duck and a show-stopping platter of Beijing duck, commonly known as Peking duck, are ordered by nearly every table.
The Preparation Process
Beijing duck is a more "premium" dish, with a focus on crispy skin. At Hong Kong Food Street, ducks are prepped and first placed in a walk-in cooler with a fan, which helps dry them out and dehydrate the skin. Chefs add a mixture of sugar, vinegar, starch, and water only to the skin, which further aids dehydration and gives the skin a nice sheen. A dry duck with glazed skin ensures crispiness during roasting.
Serving and Enjoying Beijing Duck
After it’s cooked, the duck is carved, with the chef separating the meaty pieces from the crunchy skin. Served alongside pancakes, cucumbers, spring onions, and hoisin sauce, the duck is ready for a proper Thanksgiving meal. To eat, simply compose your duck pancakes like fajitas: add meat and skin to the pancakes, add a smattering of sauce and vegetables, and then roll up like a taco and eat.
Trying It at Home
For home chefs looking to make their own duck, Cheung advises caution. "I don’t recommend it," he says with a chuckle. "The hassle and the labor that’s required might not be worth it." However, for the adventurous, Cheung suggests purchasing a Beijing duck kit or trying a roasted orange and ginger duck recipe.
Alternatives to Cooking at Home
For those who don’t feel like cooking, reservations or to-go orders at a local restaurant are a great option. Some popular alternatives in the Houston area include:
Restaurant Options
- Peking Cuisine (Sharpstown)
- Duck N Bao (Memorial, Rice Village)
- Arco Seafood Restaurant (Asiatown)
- Fung’s Kitchen (Sharpstown)
- Bamboo House (Humble)
- Hong Kong Food Street (Katy)
Conclusion
In conclusion, for those looking to try something new this Thanksgiving, duck is a delicious and culturally significant alternative to traditional turkey. Whether you choose to try it at home or at a local restaurant, Beijing duck is sure to be a hit. With its crispy skin and flavorful meat, it’s no wonder that duck reigns supreme at Hong Kong Food Street and other Asian restaurants in the Houston area.
