Mock duck

Mock Duck is a vegetarian and vegan food product designed to mimic the taste and texture of duck meat. It is made from wheat gluten, also known as seitan, or from processed tofu, which are both high in protein and can be seasoned to take on a flavor similar to that of duck. Mock duck is a popular choice in vegetarian cuisine and is often used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, curries, and as a meat substitute in other traditional duck recipes.

Ingredients and Preparation

The primary ingredient in mock duck is either wheat gluten or tofu. Wheat gluten is made by hydrating wheat flour to activate the gluten and then processing it to remove everything but the gluten. The gluten is then cooked and seasoned to resemble duck meat in both flavor and texture. Tofu-based mock duck is made by pressing tofu into a dense form, then seasoning and cooking it to achieve a similar effect.

Seasonings may include soy sauce, five-spice powder, and other spices and flavorings that are commonly used in duck dishes. The preparation of mock duck aims to replicate the savory, slightly gamey taste of duck, as well as its tender yet slightly chewy texture.

Culinary Uses

Mock duck can be used in a wide range of dishes, substituting for duck in nearly any recipe. It is particularly popular in Asian cuisine, where it may be found in dishes like mock Peking duck, served with pancakes, spring onions, and hoisin sauce. It is also used in vegetarian versions of duck a l'orange, duck salads, and various stir-fries and noodle dishes.

Nutritional Value

As a product primarily made from wheat gluten or tofu, mock duck is high in protein but low in fat, making it a healthier alternative to real duck meat. It is also cholesterol-free. However, it is important for consumers to check the product labels, as some mock duck products may contain added sugars or preservatives.

Availability

Mock duck is available in many health food stores, Asian supermarkets, and online. It is often sold canned or vacuum-packed, making it a convenient meat substitute for vegetarians and vegans.

Cultural and Ethical Considerations

The use of mock duck aligns with the principles of vegetarianism and veganism, offering a cruelty-free alternative to meat that does not involve the killing of animals. It also caters to those following a Buddhist diet, which often emphasizes vegetarianism. Mock duck allows individuals to enjoy traditional dishes without compromising their ethical or dietary principles.

See Also

• Vegetarian cuisine
• Veganism
• Seitan
• Tofu
• Meat analogue