Duck sauce

A condiment used in Chinese-American cuisine

Duck sauce is a condiment with a sweet and tangy flavor, commonly used in Chinese-American cuisine. It is often served as a dipping sauce for deep-fried dishes such as egg rolls, spring rolls, wontons, and crispy duck. Despite its name, duck sauce does not contain any duck.

Ingredients and Preparation

Duck sauce is typically made from a combination of sugar, vinegar, plum, apricot, or peach puree, and spices. The sauce may also include soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to enhance its flavor. The ingredients are blended together to create a smooth, orange-colored sauce with a consistency similar to jelly.

Usage

Duck sauce is primarily used as a dipping sauce for fried appetizers. It is a staple in many Chinese takeout restaurants in the United States, where it is often provided in small packets. The sauce can also be used as a glaze for meats or as a component in marinades.

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Wonton strips are often served with duck sauce

History

The origins of duck sauce are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been developed in the United States as a way to cater to American tastes. The sauce is similar to traditional Chinese plum sauce, which is used in Cantonese cuisine. However, duck sauce is sweeter and less spicy, reflecting the American preference for sweeter flavors.

Cultural Significance

Duck sauce has become an iconic part of Chinese-American cuisine, often associated with the experience of dining at a Chinese restaurant in the United States. It is a familiar condiment that complements the flavors of fried dishes and adds a sweet contrast to savory foods.

Related Pages

• Plum sauce
• Soy sauce
• Chinese cuisine
• American Chinese cuisine