Mini Peking Duck Pancakes with Hoisin and Scallions are a delicious and sophisticated appetizer that brings the flavors of Beijing to your table. These bite-sized pancakes feature tender, juicy shredded duck, a sweet and savory hoisin sauce, and fresh garnishes like scallions and cucumber. Perfect for parties, special dinners, or a luxurious brunch, these mini pancakes are sure to impress your guests with their bold flavors and elegant presentation.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make these delectable appetizers, share essential tips for perfecting the dish, and suggest variations and pairings to elevate your culinary experience.

Why You’ll Love Mini Peking Duck Pancakes with Hoisin and Scallions

1. A Flavorful and Elegant Appetizer

These mini pancakes are the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors. The tender roast duck, flavorful hoisin sauce, and crisp vegetables create a delightful combination that will leave your guests wanting more.

2. Perfect for Entertaining

Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party, celebrating a special occasion, or having a dim sum-themed gathering, these mini pancakes are an impressive and crowd-pleasing appetizer. They are easy to eat and look stunning on a platter.

3. Easy to Customize

This dish is highly customizable. You can use store-bought or homemade pancakes, adjust the garnishes to your taste, and even try different types of duck or meat if you prefer. The options are endless!

4. A Fun and Interactive Dish

Serving these pancakes at a gathering allows your guests to build their own bites, making it a fun and interactive experience. Lay out all the components on a beautiful platter and let everyone assemble their own.

Ingredients for Mini Peking Duck Pancakes with Hoisin and Scallions

Here’s what you’ll need to make 24 mini pancakes:

For the Pancakes:

  • 24 mini Chinese pancakes: You can find these at most Asian markets or make them from scratch using our easy recipe.
  • 1/2 roast duck: Shredded, juicy duck meat adds rich flavor. You can purchase a pre-cooked Peking duck from a Chinese market to save time.
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce: A thick, sweet, and savory sauce that pairs beautifully with duck.
  • 1 bunch scallions: Thinly sliced to add freshness and a bit of bite.
  • 1 medium cucumber: Julienne into thin strips for a refreshing crunch.
  • Fresh cilantro leaves: Optional, for garnish and added flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mini Peking Duck Pancakes with Hoisin and Scallions

Step 1: Prepare the Duck

  1. Shred the duck: If using a store-bought or pre-cooked roast duck, shred the meat into small, bite-sized pieces. If the duck has been refrigerated, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Mini Chinese Pancakes (Optional)

  1. Mix the dough: If you’re making the pancakes from scratch, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 3/4 cup of boiling water in a large bowl. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth.
  2. Rest the dough: Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
  3. Roll out the pancakes: Divide the dough into 24 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten into thin circles, about 3 inches in diameter.
  4. Cook the pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly brush each pancake with a bit of sesame oil, then cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until lightly golden and cooked through. Keep warm under a clean kitchen towel.

Step 3: Assemble the Mini Pancakes

  1. Spread the hoisin sauce: Using a small spoon or brush, spread a thin layer of hoisin sauce on each mini pancake.
  2. Add the shredded duck: Place a few pieces of the shredded roast duck onto each pancake.
  3. Top with garnishes: Add a few slices of scallion and julienned cucumber for freshness and crunch. If desired, add a sprig of fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Arrange and serve: Arrange the assembled mini pancakes on a large platter and serve immediately. These are best enjoyed warm and fresh.

Tips for Perfect Mini Peking Duck Pancakes

1. Use High-Quality Duck

The duck is the star of the show, so make sure to use a high-quality roast duck. If you don’t want to roast your own, pick up a pre-cooked Peking duck from a reputable Chinese market. The meat should be juicy and flavorful, with crispy skin.

2. Make the Pancakes Ahead of Time

If you’re making the pancakes from scratch, you can prepare them in advance. Keep them warm in a steamer or reheat them gently in a skillet before assembling. Store-bought pancakes are a convenient alternative that saves time.

3. Customize the Garnishes

Feel free to customize the garnishes to suit your taste. In addition to scallions and cucumber, you can add pickled vegetables, radish slices, or even a spicy chili sauce for extra heat.

4. Keep Everything Warm

If you’re serving these at a party, keep the pancakes and duck warm until just before assembling. Use a steamer or a warm oven to maintain the ideal temperature.

5. Make It a DIY Station

For a fun and interactive experience, set up a DIY pancake station where guests can assemble their own mini Peking duck pancakes. Provide all the components and let everyone get creative!

Variations of Mini Peking Duck Pancakes with Hoisin and Scallions

1. Try Different Proteins

While Peking duck is traditional, you can experiment with other proteins like roasted chicken, crispy pork belly, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The hoisin sauce and garnishes will still provide a delicious flavor profile.

2. Add a Spicy Kick

For those who love spice, add a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of sliced red chili peppers to the pancakes. The heat pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory hoisin sauce.

3. Use Flavored Pancakes

Infuse your homemade pancakes with different flavors, such as sesame or scallion, by adding finely chopped scallions or sesame seeds to the dough. This adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

4. Incorporate Pickled Vegetables

Add a tangy element by including pickled radishes or pickled carrots as a garnish. The acidity cuts through the richness of the duck and balances the flavors.

5. Serve with a Dipping Sauce

In addition to the hoisin sauce, serve a side of plum sauce, spicy sriracha mayo, or a ginger-scallion dipping sauce for guests to enjoy with their pancakes.

Pairing Suggestions

Mini Peking Duck Pancakes with Hoisin and Scallions pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks and side dishes:

  • Serve with Jasmine Tea: The light and floral notes of jasmine tea complement the rich and savory flavors of the duck.
  • Pair with a Light Red Wine: A Pinot Noir or a light Merlot works well with the sweet and savory hoisin sauce.
  • Enjoy with a Crisp Lager: The effervescence and crispness of a light lager beer refresh the palate and balance the flavors of the dish.
  • Add a Side of Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame-ginger dressing adds a crunchy contrast to the soft pancakes.

Mini Peking Duck Pancakes with Hoisin and Scallions are a delicious and elegant appetizer that will elevate any gathering. The combination of tender, juicy duck, sweet hoisin sauce, and fresh garnishes makes for an unforgettable bite. Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner or a casual party, these mini pancakes are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Try this recipe and bring a taste of Beijing to your next event with these flavorful and beautifully presented mini pancakes!