Filipino Pancit Recipe

Pancit, a classic Filipino dish, is a vibrant stir-fried noodle dish that holds a special place in Filipino cuisine. This flavorful dish is traditionally served during celebrations, birthdays, and holidays, symbolizing long life and good fortune. With its rich history and diverse variations, Pancit is a beloved comfort food for many families. In this article, we’ll explore how to make the perfect Filipino Pancit, with tips for preparing a dish that’s sure to impress your guests and become a family favorite.

What is Pancit?

Pancit (pronounced “pan-sit”) is a Filipino noodle dish that combines stir-fried noodles with vegetables, meat, seafood, and a savory broth. There are numerous types of Pancit, each with regional variations, but all share a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Pancit is often served with a side of calamansi (Filipino lime) to add a refreshing citrusy zing.

The most popular Pancit recipes include Pancit Canton (stir-fried egg noodles), Pancit Malabon (thick rice noodles with a seafood-based sauce), and Pancit Palabok (noodles topped with a garlic-based sauce, shrimp, and pork). However, Pancit Canton remains the most commonly prepared and loved version.

Ingredients for Filipino Pancit (Pancit Canton)

To prepare a delicious Filipino Pancit, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 cup snow peas, trimmed
• 200 grams chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 150 grams shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional for an added umami flavor)
• 200 grams Pancit Canton noodles
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Calamansi or lemon, for serving
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

How to Make Filipino Pancit

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Start by cooking the Pancit Canton noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling the noodles for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender but still firm. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat and Shrimp

In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and shrimp, cooking them until they are just cooked through. Remove the meat and shrimp from the pan and set them aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the onions and garlic until they become aromatic and translucent. Add the carrots, bell peppers, and snow peas, cooking them for 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Stir to combine the ingredients and bring everything to a simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add the Noodles

Once the broth has reduced slightly, add the cooked Pancit Canton noodles to the pan. Toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and the vegetables and meat are well distributed throughout.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a more flavorful kick, squeeze in some calamansi or lemon juice to brighten the dish. Garnish the Pancit with chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Tips for the Perfect Filipino Pancit

1. Use the Right Noodles: Pancit Canton noodles are key to this dish. These egg noodles have a slightly chewy texture and absorb flavors beautifully. You can also use other Filipino noodles like Pancit Malabon or Pancit Bihon for different variations.
2. Customize the Protein: While this recipe uses chicken and shrimp, you can also add pork, beef, or tofu for variation. Pancit is versatile, so feel free to mix and match your proteins.
3. Add More Vegetables: If you want to make your Pancit even more nutritious, feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or even baby corn.
4. For Extra Flavor: Consider adding a tablespoon of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for an added depth of flavor.

Why Filipinos Love Pancit

Pancit is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of good health and long life. In Filipino culture, it’s traditional to serve Pancit at birthdays, weddings, and other special occasions. The long noodles represent longevity, making the dish a celebratory food that’s passed down through generations. It’s also a dish that brings family and friends together, as it’s often shared and enjoyed in large gatherings.

Serving Filipino Pancit

Serve Pancit Canton with a side of calamansi, which is a small citrus fruit native to the Philippines. Its tangy juice adds the perfect contrast to the savory and umami-rich noodles. You can also serve the dish with crispy fried spring rolls (lumpia) for a complete Filipino feast.

Conclusion

This Filipino Pancit recipe is a celebration of flavors, textures, and tradition. With its savory broth, stir-fried vegetables, and tender noodles, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and full of heart. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a comforting meal, Pancit is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Give this Filipino Pancit recipe a try, and bring a piece of Filipino culture to your dining table today!

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Serving and Storage Tips for Filipino Pancit

Serving Tips:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: For added flavor and a pop of color, garnish your Pancit with freshly chopped green onions or cilantro. You can also sprinkle toasted garlic or fried onions on top for extra texture and flavor.
2. Serve with Calamansi or Lemon: Calamansi, a small citrus fruit native to the Philippines, is often served with Pancit to add a fresh, zesty flavor. If you can’t find calamansi, lemon or lime wedges work just as well. Squeeze the juice over the noodles just before eating to brighten up the dish.
3. Accompaniments: Pancit is often served with lumpia (Filipino spring rolls) or crispy fried chicken for a more filling meal. Pairing with a side of pickled vegetables like atsara (papaya relish) adds a nice balance to the savory noodles.
4. Family-Style Presentation: Pancit is typically served family-style on a large platter, allowing everyone to help themselves. This communal style of serving makes it perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Leftover Pancit can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The noodles will absorb some of the sauce and may become slightly drier, but the flavor will still be delicious.
2. Reheating: To reheat Pancit, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to loosen up the noodles. Heat it on low to medium heat while stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave by covering it with a damp paper towel to keep the noodles moist.
3. Freezing: While Pancit is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for longer storage. Place the cooled Pancit in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat using the stovetop or microwave. Be aware that the texture of the noodles may change slightly after freezing.
4. Storing Toppings Separately: If you plan to store leftover Pancit with protein (chicken, shrimp, etc.), it’s best to store the proteins separately to maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming soggy when reheated. Combine them with the noodles only when you’re ready to serve.

Pro Tip: Pancit often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. If you’re making it ahead of time, prepare it a day before your gathering, and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

1. What is the difference between Pancit Canton and Pancit Bihon?

Pancit Canton and Pancit Bihon are both popular Filipino noodle dishes, but they differ in the type of noodles used. Pancit Canton uses egg noodles, which are thicker and chewier, while Pancit Bihon uses thin rice noodles, which are lighter and more delicate. Both dishes are stir-fried with similar ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, and seafood, but Pancit Canton typically has a richer, savory flavor due to the thicker noodles.

2. Can I make Pancit vegetarian?

Yes! Pancit can easily be made vegetarian by omitting the meat and seafood. Instead, you can use tofu, mushrooms, and other vegetables like baby corn, peas, or eggplant for a satisfying and flavorful dish. The broth can be made using vegetable stock or simply with water and seasonings. This vegetarian version of Pancit is still delicious and full of texture.

3. Can I use a different type of noodle for Pancit?

While traditional Pancit Canton uses egg noodles, you can substitute with other types of noodles if needed. Lo mein noodles or even spaghetti noodles can be used in a pinch, although the texture will be different. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodle you choose.

4. Is Pancit a good dish for meal prep?

Yes, Pancit is a great dish for meal prep. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, and the flavors only improve as it sits. You can store the Pancit in individual servings for easy grab-and-go meals. Just remember to store the proteins (like shrimp or chicken) separately, and add a little bit of broth or water when reheating to keep the noodles from drying out.

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