Guizhou Crispy Duck (Xiang Su Ya)

Guizhou crispy duck (香酥鸭, Xiang Su Ya) is a traditional snack with a long history and unique flavor, dating back to the Qing Dynasty. In the 1980s, it was introduced to Guiyang by people from Xingyi and has since become a representative cuisine of Guizhou, loved by food enthusiasts both domestically and internationally.

The main ingredient of crispy duck is the Cherry Valley duck, which is raised on grains for 90 days, weighing about 4 pounds, and has delicate meat. In the production process, the duck undergoes steps such as scalding to remove feathers, followed by draining and soaking in a secret brine, then marinated with soy sauce and sugar. Next, the marinated duck is cut into uniform pieces for even heating during frying. During the frying process, the duck pieces are fried in a low-temperature oil pan until golden and crispy on the outside, then removed with a slotted spoon, producing a crisp sizzling sound. Finally, the duck pieces are brushed with a layer of Sichuan peppercorn powder to enhance the flavor.

The uniqueness of crispy duck lies in its crispy and tender texture and delicious meat. The outer layer is golden and crispy, while the inside is smooth, juicy, and flavorful. With each bite, the rich aroma of the meat blends with the spices, leaving a lasting impression. Moreover, crispy duck is nutritious, rich in high-quality proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, particularly high in B vitamins and vitamin E, which are beneficial for health.

In Guizhou, crispy duck is a non-spicy delicacy, reflecting the diversity of Guizhou’s culinary culture. Its unique taste and flavor make it stand out among the many delicacies of Guizhou, becoming a highly praised specialty snack.

Guizhou dishes