So, you’ve got a beautiful, crispy Peking duck ready to impress your dinner guests… but now you’re asking yourself: What the heck do I serve with it? Don’t worry — we’ve all been there. This guide will walk you through the best Peking Duck Side Dishes, from traditional must-haves to creative modern pairings. Whether you’re throwing an upscale dinner party or making Sunday dinner extra special, we’ve got all the flavorful options you need to craft a well-rounded, unforgettable meal. Let’s dive in!
Why Side Dishes Matter With Peking Duck
Sure, Peking duck is the star of the show, but even a superstar needs a solid supporting cast. The duck is rich, fatty, and intensely flavorful — so your sides should either complement or contrast those elements. The right side dishes can elevate the entire experience, cutting through the richness, refreshing your palate, and adding new layers of taste and texture. Think of it like this: without the supporting characters, your duck is just acting in a one-person show. But bring in the crunchy, the tangy, the savory, and the sweet — and suddenly, you’ve got a whole production going.
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Traditional Chinese Sides That Complement Peking Duck
These classics are often served in Beijing restaurants and beyond. They’ve stood the test of time for good reason: they bring balance, harmony, and authenticity to the Peking duck experience. If you want to recreate that restaurant-style feel at home, these are the non-negotiables.
Mandarin Pancakes
These thin, soft pancakes are the taco shells of the Chinese world. Made from flour and water, they’re rolled out thin and pan-cooked without oil, resulting in a light, flexible wrap that perfectly houses slices of duck, hoisin sauce, and crisp veggies. Whether you make them from scratch or grab them frozen from an Asian market, Mandarin pancakes are a must-have. They’re not just a side — they’re part of the main act.
Hoisin Sauce
Sweet, salty, thick, and full of umami, hoisin sauce is the condiment that defines the Peking duck wrap. It brings bold flavor and helps tie all the ingredients together inside the pancake. Made from fermented soybeans, garlic, sugar, and spices, this sauce has a rich profile that complements the duck’s crispy skin and juicy meat. If you want to level it up, try mixing in a bit of garlic, sesame oil, or even a splash of rice vinegar. You’ll be surprised how a minor tweak can personalize the taste and make your meal pop.
Spring Onions and Cucumbers
Simple? Yes. But essential. These fresh, crunchy vegetables serve a purpose beyond aesthetics. They offer a refreshing bite that cuts through the duck’s richness and adds brightness to every mouthful. Spring onions bring a slight pungent bite, while cucumbers offer coolness and crunch. They may seem like humble ingredients, but when paired with the right sauces and duck slices, they’re downright magical. Don’t skip these — they’re the flavor contrast your meal needs.
Pickled Vegetables
Want to wake up your palate mid-bite? Quick-pickled vegetables are your best friend. Think carrots, daikon radish, red onions, or even cabbage. A quick brine of rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and a pinch of chili creates vibrant, tangy veggies that offer a sharp counterpoint to the fatty richness of duck.
Modern Twists on Classic Sides
If you’re someone who likes to shake things up in the kitchen, these modern takes on traditional sides offer fresh ideas that still honor the essence of Peking duck. These are ideal if you’re serving a crowd with diverse tastes or just want something a little different.
Asian Slaw
Imagine all the crispiness of a coleslaw, but with an Asian twist. This side combines shredded red and green cabbage, carrots, scallions, and sesame seeds tossed in a tangy soy-ginger dressing. It adds both texture and acidity — two things that work wonders alongside duck. The lightness of the slaw balances out the richness of the meat, making your meal feel less heavy and more refreshing. Bonus? It looks fantastic on the plate with all those vibrant colors.
Sweet Potato Fries with Five-Spice
Regular fries are good, but sweet potato fries are next level — especially when you season them with Chinese five-spice powder. This spice blend of cinnamon, cloves, star anise, fennel, and Sichuan peppercorn gives the fries a fragrant, warming flavor that echoes the spices often used in duck marinades. Roast them until crispy, and serve them with a side of hoisin or chili mayo. They’re familiar enough to please picky eaters but unique enough to impress your foodie friends.
Steamed Bao Buns
Fluffy, pillowy bao buns are like a blank canvas for all your duck dreams. This option turns your dinner into a fun DIY experience, where guests can build their buns — perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.
Egg Fried Rice
A classic side that never fails. Egg fried rice is subtly flavored with soy sauce, sesame oil, scallions, and lightly scrambled eggs. You can throw in some frozen peas, diced carrots, or even bits of leftover duck. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make in big batches.
Garlic Noodles
Rich, buttery, and packed with garlicky goodness, these noodles are a delicious surprise alongside Peking duck. Cooked al dente and tossed in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fresh garlic, they bring a slightly sweet and savory profile that complements the meat beautifully. Want to turn up the heat? Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili crisp oil.
Jasmine or Sticky Rice
When in doubt, go simple. Jasmine rice is light and aromatic, while sticky rice offers a chewy texture that pairs nicely with crispy duck skin. Both options serve as the perfect blank canvas for the bolder flavors on your plate.
Soups to Start or Pair With Peking Duck
Adding a soup to your Peking duck dinner? Absolutely. A warm, flavorful soup is a comforting way to start the meal or serve between courses to cleanse the palate.
Hot and Sour Soup
This soup has it all — spice, tang, umami, and texture. Loaded with mushrooms, tofu, bamboo shoots, and a zingy vinegar-pepper broth, hot and sour soup stimulates the senses and balances out the richness of the duck. It’s hearty without being too filling, making it a perfect appetizer.
Wonton Soup – Peking Duck Side Dishes
A delicate broth filled with pork or shrimp wontons and leafy greens, this soup is subtle yet satisfying. You can keep it classic or add a dash of white pepper or sesame oil for a deeper flavor.
Salads That Refresh and Balance the Meal
Let’s face it — a duck can be heavy. That’s why a cool, refreshing salad can be the game-changer that keeps your guests coming back for seconds (or thirds).
Sesame Cucumber Salad – Peking Duck Side Dishes
This simple side features thinly sliced cucumbers tossed with rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and chili flakes. It’s light, tangy, and offers a crunch that contrasts with the soft, juicy duck.
Sauces and Dips You Can’t Skip
The duck might be the headline act, but sauces are the plot twists. They can change the flavor story with just one dip or drizzle.
Spicy Chili Oil – Peking Duck Side Dishes
If your guests like a little heat, chili oil is a welcome addition. It adds depth, a mild burn, and a roasted flavor that pairs wonderfully with duck. Spoon it over rice, drizzle it into soup, or stir it into dipping sauces for extra punch.
Drinks That Pair Perfectly With Peking Duck
Food’s essential, but don’t forget the drinks! The right beverage can enhance your entire dining experience.
Chinese Tea – Peking Duck Side Dishes
Traditional Chinese teas like jasmine, oolong, and pu-erh are natural matches for duck. They cleanse the palate, aid digestion, and bring a calming, balanced note to the meal. Plus, serving tea adds a touch of cultural authenticity that your guests will appreciate.
Rice Wine or Plum Wine – Peking Duck Side Dishes
A little on the sweet side, these wines complement the duck’s savory richness beautifully. Serve them chilled or slightly warmed for a cozy vibe. If you’re not a fan of wine, try a sake-style rice beverage — it’s equally refreshing.
Craft Beer or Sparkling Water
A light, crisp beer or even sparkling water with citrus can refresh your mouth between bites. Think of it like a little “reset button” that keeps your taste buds sharp.
What to Avoid Serving With Peking Duck Side Dishes
Some foods simply don’t jive with duck. Avoid creamy pasta, cheesy sides, or anything with intense tomato flavors — they tend to clash with the duck’s seasoning. Similarly, dishes that are overly greasy or deep-fried can make the meal feel too heavy. Keep it light, bright, and balanced.
How to Build the Perfect Peking Duck Platter
Now that you’ve picked your sides, it’s time to build the ultimate duck feast.
Mixing Textures and Flavors in Peking Duck Side Dishes
Think variety: soft pancakes, crunchy slaw, saucy noodles, and fresh herbs. This keeps each bite exciting and prevents flavor fatigue.
Balancing Richness with Acidity
Use pickles, vinegar-based dressings, and citrusy drinks to cut the fat and keep things moving. Your guests won’t just enjoy the meal — they’ll remember it.
Final Tips for Hosting a Peking Duck Side Dishes Dinner
Prep in advance, offer variety, and don’t be afraid to let your guests build their plates. That interaction makes the meal feel fun and customizable. Little details — like warm plates, fresh herbs, and beautiful serving platters — go a long way in creating a memorable experience.
Conclusion on Peking Duck Side Dishes
There you have it — a full rundown of the best Peking duck side dishes that will make your meal unforgettable. Whether you go classic with Mandarin pancakes and hoisin, or mix it up with garlic noodles, Asian slaw, and chili oil, the key is all about balance. Rich meets fresh, crispy meets soft, sweet meets savory. Get those elements right, and you’re not just serving dinner — you’re serving an experience.
FAQs
1. Is It Possible to Prep Peking Duck Side Dishes in Advance?
Absolutely! Most sides, such as slaw, pickled veggies, and fried rice, can be prepped a day in advance. Just reheat or toss before serving.
2. Are there vegetarian sides that go well with duck?
Yes! Think cucumber salad, pickled veggies, stir-fried greens, and sesame noodles — all duck-friendly and vegetarian.
3. What dessert pairs well with Peking duck?
Consider something light, such as mango pudding, green tea ice cream, or a simple fruit platter featuring lychee and melon.
4. How do I serve duck for a crowd?
Slice it thin and serve buffet-style with a variety of sides so guests can build their wraps or plates.
5. Can I pair wine with Peking duck?
Yes! Pinot Noir, Riesling, or even a lightly chilled rosé pairs beautifully with the richness of duck.