The dish requires a local duck that is about 6 months old and preferably raised naturally, the meat of which is particularly fresh and tender. 

 

After slaughtering the duck, the blood is collected and immediately stirred in a bowl to cool down into a gelatinous liquid. Alternatively, it can be stirred in a large bowl with a little salt to form a thick paste that cannot solidify.

 

 

The cleaned duck is chopped into suitable-sized pieces. Heat oil in a pan and fry the duck until the moisture is evaporated. Then add spices such as chili, star anise, and tender ginger into the pan. Stew the mixture with water for 30 minutes. 

 

Tender ginger is an indispensable ingredient for making blood duck (if it is not available, mature ginger can be an alternative), because it can remove the gaminess of the duck and enhance its flavor. 

 

 

Finally, when there is a small amount of broth left in the pan, add the uncongealed duck blood mixed with salt, and then stir it into a thick paste and coat it thoroughly on each piece of duck meat through multiple stir-frying. It is important to note that after adding the duck blood, the pan should be removed from the heat, and the residual heat should be used to cook the duck blood to maintain its bright red color.

 

Jiahe Blood Duck is quite palatable. This signature dish, known as the “main course” on the dining table of Jiahe locals, gained nationwide fame when it was featured on the CCTV program “Traveling across China” years ago. 

 

In 2022, Jiahe County was selected as one of the “top ten counties famous for its Hunan Cuisine” in the 23rd Central China (Hunan) Agricultural Expo. Jiahe’s local dishes, represented by Blood Duck Fried with Tender Ginger, once again impressed the nation and attracted countless admirers.

 

Jiahe Blood Duck, Blood-filled Sausage, and Boiled Pork are all authentic Jiahe cuisine passed down from generation to generation. 

 

The people of Jiahe are warm and hospitable, and their warmth and generosity are fully reflected in the food culture of the county. They are dedicated to ensuring that every visitor to Jiahe eats well and happily. They carry forward the historical charm while boldly innovating, making the brand of one of the “top ten counties famous for its Hunan Cuisine” shine brighter as a culinary destination.