What to Eat with Duck Pancakes: The Perfect Pairings

There’s something special about that first bite - rich Cantonese roast duck, hoisin sauce, cucumber, and spring onion, all wrapped in a soft, steamy pancake. But what really takes duck pancakes to the next level are the sides and accompaniments that complete the experience.

If you’ve ever wondered what to eat with duck pancakes, we’ve put together a guide to help you serve a restaurant-quality spread at home.

🥒 Classic Pairings That Never Fail

When it comes to duck pancakes, simplicity is everything. The classic combination of hoisin sauce, cucumber, and spring onion has stood the test of time and for good reason.

• Hoisin Sauce: Sweet, salty, and umami - it ties every bite together.

• Cucumber: Brings freshness and crunch to cut through the richness of the duck.

• Spring Onion: Adds a subtle sharpness that balances the flavours perfectly.

These three create the perfect bite every time, no need to overcomplicate it.

What to Serve with Duck Pancakes

If you’re preparing a full meal, duck pancakes make the perfect centrepiece but pairing them with the right sides can turn dinner into an experience.

Here are a few ideas that complement the deep, roasted flavour of Cantonese duck:

1. Egg Fried Rice or Vegetable Fried Rice

A classic companion that soaks up the rich duck sauce beautifully.

2. Stir-Fried Greens

Think pak choi, kai lan, or Chinese broccoli with garlic. These keep the meal fresh and balanced.

3. Hot & Sour Soup or Wonton Soup

A warming starter that pairs perfectly with duck, especially on cooler evenings.

4. Bao Buns or Steamed Dumplings

If you’re serving guests, mix in some small bites like prawn dumplings or BBQ pork buns for variety.

5. Chinese Tea or Jasmine Rice Wine

Perfect for cutting through the richness of the duck and cleansing your palate.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Duck Pancake Night

Here’s how to make it feel like you’re dining at your favourite Cantonese restaurant:

1️⃣ Warm your pancakes properly - steam them for 1–2 minutes for that soft, supple texture.

2️⃣ Slice the duck thinly - it makes every bite feel lighter and more refined.

3️⃣ Serve family-style - lay everything out on the table and let everyone build their own pancakes.

4️⃣ Add a side sauce bar - hoisin, plum, or even spicy sriracha for a fun twist.

Where to Get the Best Duck for Pancakes

You can’t have perfect duck pancakes without perfect duck.

At For Duck’s Sake, we take care of the hard part - the marinating, dry-ageing, and flavouring - so you can focus on enjoying your meal.

Our pre-marinated, halal Canton roast duck brings restaurant-quality flavour to your kitchen with no chef required. Just roast, slice, and serve with your favourite sides.

Final Bite

So, when someone asks what to eat with duck pancakes, the answer is simple - anything that complements that rich, savoury duck flavour.

From classic hoisin and cucumber to stir-fried greens and bao buns, the key is balance.

With For Duck’s Sake, you get all the authentic Cantonese flavour — minus the hours of prep.

Pre-marinated. Dry-aged. Halal. Just roast, serve, and repeat.