Air Fryer Fakeaway – Duck Pancakes

This air fryer fakeaway is not only delicious but also quick and simple to prepare. Perfect for having friends round, these crispy duck pancakes will be the star of any social event, combining gourmet flavour with the convenience of an air fryer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Duck Pancakes

Can I cook duck in the air fryer?

Yes. The air fryer is a fantastic way to cook duck. It helps render the fat and crisp up the skin beautifully, making it perfect for duck pancakes. Simply score the skin of the duck, season, and cook skin-side up in the air fryer. It’s quicker than oven roasting and still delivers restaurant-quality results – ideal for a fakeaway night at home.

How long does duck take in the air fryer?

For duck breasts, cook in the air fryer at 200°C (390°F) for around 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness and preferred doneness. If you’re using duck legs, increase the cooking time to 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping. Always rest the duck for 5–10 minutes before shredding for your duck pancakes.

Do I need to marinate the duck before air frying?

While it’s optional, marinating the duck in Chinese five spice, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, garlic, or ginger can add depth of flavour. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight if you want your air fryer duck pancakes to taste just like your favourite fakeaway.

What kind of pancakes do I use for duck pancakes?

Look for Chinese-style Mandarin pancakes… they’re soft, thin, and specifically made for duck pancakes. You can usually find them in the freezer section of Asian supermarkets or large grocery stores. Steam them briefly to soften before assembling your fakeaway duck pancakes.

What toppings go with air fryer duck pancakes?

For that classic fakeaway duck pancake experience, serve with:

• Shredded cucumber
• Spring onions
• Hoisin sauce
• Optional chilli sauce for heat

Layer these on a steamed pancake, add your air fryer duck, and roll it up—just like in your favourite Chinese takeaway.

Can I use leftover duck for duck pancakes?

Yes, leftover duck works really well. Simply reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp it up again before shredding. It’s a great way to cut down on waste and whip up a quick duck pancake fakeaway without starting from scratch.

Can I make air fryer duck pancakes in advance?

You can cook the duck ahead of time and shred it, then reheat in the air fryer just before serving to restore that crispy texture. Pancakes and veg toppings can also be prepped in advance for an easy midweek fakeaway dinner.

Is duck healthy when cooked in the air fryer?

While duck is naturally higher in fat than chicken or turkey, cooking it in the air fryer helps render out excess fat while still keeping the meat juicy. It’s a slightly healthier way to enjoy duck without deep-frying or heavy oil use—making your duck pancake fakeaway a little lighter than takeaway versions.

Get ready to wow your guests with this perfect fakeaway treat! For more delicious air fryer recipes like this, you can pick up a copy of my air fryer cookbooks Air Fryer 30 Minute Meals and The Healthy Air Fryer Book today.