Roasting a Chinese duck to achieve perfectly crispy skin requires a combination of techniques and attention to detail. Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve that mouthwatering crispy skin:

1. Properly Dry the Duck

Before roasting, it's essential to dry the duck thoroughly. This step removes excess moisture from the skin, allowing it to crisp up during cooking. Pat the duck dry with paper towels both inside and out. You can also leave the duck uncovered in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to further dry out the skin.

2. Score the Skin

Scoring the skin of the duck helps to render out the fat and allows the skin to crisp evenly. Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern across the skin, being careful not to cut into the meat. This technique helps the fat to render out and promotes even browning.

3. Apply a Flavored Glaze

A flavorful glaze adds a delicious touch to the crispy skin. A traditional Chinese glaze can be made by combining ingredients like honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder. Brush the glaze over the duck before roasting and periodically during the cooking process.

4. Utilize High Heat

Roasting the duck at a high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Preheat the oven to around 425°F (220°C) and place the duck on a rack set inside a roasting pan. The elevated rack allows the hot air to circulate around the bird, ensuring even cooking and crispy skin.

5. Baste with Hot Oil

To further enhance the crispiness, baste the duck with hot oil during the roasting process. Every 15-20 minutes, carefully remove the duck from the oven and use a spoon to pour hot oil over the skin. This technique helps to render the fat and promotes a golden, crispy exterior.

6. Use a Two-Step Cooking Method

For a perfectly cooked Chinese duck with crispy skin, consider using a two-step cooking method. Start by roasting the duck breast-side up until it is almost fully cooked. Then, flip the duck over and continue roasting breast-side down to allow the skin to crisp up further.

By following these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to achieving perfectly crispy skin when roasting Chinese duck. Enjoy the delicious results!

References:

• Omnivore's Cookbook: How to Make Peking Duck (Beijing Roast Duck)
• Serious Eats: Peking Duck with Mandarin Pancakes Recipe