Filipino Pancit: A Flavorful and Festive Noodle Dish

Pancit is a beloved Filipino dish that brings together a delicious combination of noodles, vegetables, and protein, all stir-fried in a savory sauce. This dish is often served at parties, birthdays, and other celebrations, as it symbolizes long life and good fortune. There are many variations of Pancit, but one of the most popular is Pancit Canton, which is made with stir-fried egg noodles, shrimp, chicken, and a colorful assortment of vegetables.

The beauty of Filipino Pancit lies in its versatility and vibrant flavors. The dish is not only tasty but also a visual feast, thanks to the mix of fresh vegetables and the rich, golden-brown hue of the noodles. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, Pancit is a fantastic dish to try. It’s easy to prepare, and its bold flavors will surely leave everyone asking for more!

2. Ingredients

• 8 oz Pancit Canton (egg noodles)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 bell pepper, julienned
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• ½ cup cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 1 cup cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder (optional)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon or calamansi (for garnish)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)
• Hard-boiled eggs (for garnish, optional)

3. Directions

1. Prepare the Noodles: Cook the Pancit Canton noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. If the noodles are too dry, toss them with a little oil to keep them separated.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the Vegetables: Add the carrots, bell pepper, and green beans to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Cook the Chicken and Shrimp: Add the cooked chicken and shrimp to the pan, stirring to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken and shrimp are heated through.
5. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, chicken bouillon (if using), and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the chicken, shrimp, and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly.
6. Add the Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss everything together, making sure the noodles are well-coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thin, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, and stir this into the pan to thicken the sauce.
7. Simmer: Let everything simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are well-seasoned and the flavors are fully absorbed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish and Serve: Serve the Pancit hot, garnished with lemon or calamansi wedges, chopped green onions, and hard-boiled eggs if desired.

4. How to Prepare

1. Cook the Noodles: Boil the Pancit Canton noodles as per the instructions and set them aside to keep them from sticking together.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a hot pan, sauté the garlic and onion until they’re soft and fragrant.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add the carrots, bell pepper, and green beans, and cook them until tender but still crisp.
4. Cook the Protein: Add the cooked chicken and shrimp to the mix, heating them through before adding the sauce.
5. Make the Sauce: Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken broth together, then pour it over the veggies and proteins.
6. Combine the Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the pan, tossing them with the sauce until everything is well-coated.
7. Simmer and Thicken: If needed, thicken the sauce with cornstarch and water, then simmer until the flavors are absorbed.
8. Garnish and Serve: Top the Pancit with lemon wedges, green onions, and boiled eggs for a festive presentation.

5. Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

6. Servings

This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.

7. FAQs

Q1: Can I use other noodles besides Pancit Canton?

Yes, you can substitute Pancit Canton with other types of noodles, such as rice noodles or even spaghetti. However, the flavor and texture might differ slightly.

Q2: Can I make Pancit ahead of time?

Pancit is best served fresh, but you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, snow peas, or baby corn to enhance the flavor and texture. Pancit is very versatile!

Q4: Is this recipe gluten-free?

Pancit Canton noodles contain gluten. To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles or rice noodles, and ensure that your sauces are gluten-free.

Q5: Can I make Pancit vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and shrimp and substitute with tofu or other plant-based protein sources. You can also add more vegetables to make the dish heartier.

8. Conclusion

Filipino Pancit is a delicious and festive noodle dish that captures the essence of Filipino cuisine. Packed with vibrant vegetables, tender chicken, shrimp, and savory seasonings, it’s a dish that can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Whether served at a celebration or as a comforting weeknight dinner, Pancit brings people together with its bold flavors and satisfying textures.

Try making this flavorful dish at home and share the joy of Pancit with your family and friends. It’s a meal that’s as delicious as it is meaningful, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!