15 Iconic Dishes You Have to Try in Their Country of Origin

7. China – Peking Duck (Beijing)

Few dishes are as deeply tied to their place of origin as Peking duck is to Beijing. A symbol of imperial elegance and centuries-old culinary mastery, this dish dates back to the Ming Dynasty, when it was exclusively prepared for the Chinese royal court. Today, it remains one of the most revered dishes in China, and there’s no better place to try it than in Beijing’s top roast duck restaurants. The preparation of authentic Peking duck is an art form. The duck is carefully selected and inflated with air between the skin and meat to create its signature crispiness. It is then glazed with maltose syrup and roasted in a traditional wood-fired oven, where the skin turns a deep golden brown while the inside remains succulent and tender. When served, the duck is meticulously carved into paper-thin slices, showcasing the contrast between crispy skin and juicy meat. These slices are then wrapped in thin, steamed pancakes, accompanied by hoisin sauce, scallions, and cucumber slices. Each bite is an explosion of textures and flavors—smoky, slightly sweet, and incredibly rich.