Shanghainese cuisine, with its balance of sweet and savory flavors, is a culinary treasure in China’s vast gastronomic landscape. Among its many dishes, EightTreasure Duck (八宝鸭, Bā Bǎo Yā) stands out as a sumptuous and festive delicacy. Traditionally enjoyed during celebrations, this dish combines the rich flavors of duck with a variety of glutinous rice and a vibrant medley of ingredients, embodying the spirit of abundance and joy. While dining out may be a convenient option, preparing EightTreasure Duck at home can be a rewarding culinary experience that connects you with rich cultural traditions.
Understanding EightTreasure Duck
The dish is called “Eight Treasures” not merely for the number but also for the carefully selected ingredients that represent diversity and richness. The duck is typically marinated and stuffed with a mixture of glutinous rice, dried fruits, nuts, and sometimes Chinese medicinal herbs. The unique blend offers a taste that is both aromatic and slightly sweet, with the tender duck meat soaking up the flavors of the stuffing.
The main play of flavors and textures is what makes this dish so exciting. Unlike many other duck preparations, EightTreasure Duck relies heavily on the aromatic stuffing, which plays a vital role in infusing the bird with a robust taste.
Ingredients
To make your own EightTreasure Duck at home, you will need:
For the Duck:
1 whole duck (about 45 pounds)
3 tablespoons of soy sauce
2 tablespoons of Shaoxing wine
1 tablespoon of fivespice powder
Salt to taste
For the Stuffing:
1 cup of glutinous rice (soaked for at least an hour)
2 tablespoons of dried apricots (chopped)
2 tablespoons of raisins or dried jujube (chopped)
2 tablespoons of roasted chestnuts (crushed)
2 tablespoons of walnuts or peanuts (chopped)
1 tablespoon of sesame oil
1 tablespoon of sugar (to taste)
2 tablespoons of scallions (chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Method
1. Prepare the Duck:
Clean the duck thoroughly, removing any excess fat, and pat it dry.
Rub the inside and outside of the duck with salt, fivespice powder, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight in the refrigerator, to soak in the flavors.
2. Prepare the Stuffing:
Drain the soaked glutinous rice and lightly steam it for about 1015 minutes until it’s partially cooked.
In a mixing bowl, combine the steamed rice with chopped dried fruits, crushed chestnuts, nuts, sesame oil, sugar, scallions, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Stuff the Duck:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully stuff the duck’s cavity with the rice mixture, ensuring it’s firmly packed. You can sew the cavity opening shut with kitchen twine or use toothpicks to secure it.
4. Roast the Duck:
Place the stuffed duck on a roasting rack in a baking pan. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
Roast in the preheated oven for about 22.5 hours, basting the duck occasionally with its own juices. If the skin is not crispy enough towards the end of cooking, remove the foil and roast for an additional 1520 minutes.
5. Serve:
Allow the duck to rest for about 15 minutes before carving. Serve the duck slices on a platter garnished with the remaining stuffing and a drizzle of extra soy sauce if desired.
Enjoying EightTreasure Duck
EightTreasure Duck is best enjoyed with a side of steamed vegetables and fragrant rice. The stuffing can also be served as a flavorful accompaniment. This dish is not only a treat for the palate but also a celebration of the culture and traditions surrounding Shanghainese cuisine.
Whether served during a family gathering or on special occasions, the preparation of EightTreasure Duck at home is a rewarding endeavor that gives you a deeper appreciation for the timehonored culinary practices of Shanghai. Indulge in this delightful treat and let its rich flavors transport you to the bustling streets of Shanghai, where food is more than just sustenance — it is a celebration of life.