Authentic Filipino Pancit Recipe

Filipino Pancit is a beloved noodle dish deeply rooted in Filipino culture. A staple at birthdays, fiestas, and family gatherings, this dish symbolizes longevity and good health. There are many variations of Pancit, with Pancit Bihon and Pancit Canton being the most popular. This recipe features stir-fried noodles loaded with meat, shrimp, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful soy-based sauce.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make authentic Filipino Pancit step by step, along with variations, cooking tips, and serving suggestions.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

To prepare this delicious Filipino Pancit recipe, you’ll need:

• Large wok or deep skillet
• Wooden spatula or tongs
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Colander (for draining noodles)

What Do You Need to Prepare Filipino Pancit? (Ingredients)

For the Noodles:

• 8 oz Pancit Bihon (rice noodles) or Pancit Canton (egg noodles)

For the Protein:

• 1/2 lb chicken breast or thigh, sliced thinly
• 1/4 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb pork belly or pork shoulder, sliced thinly

For the Vegetables:

• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 small bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup green beans, chopped

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional but recommended)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp calamansi or lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For Garnishing:

• 2 stalks green onions, chopped
• Lemon or calamansi wedges
• Crispy fried garlic (optional)

How to Make Easy Filipino Pancit Step-by-Step?

Step 1: Soak the Noodles

• If using Pancit Bihon, soak the rice noodles in warm water for 10-15 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.
• If using Pancit Canton, no soaking is needed.

Step 2: Cook the Proteins

• Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large wok over medium-high heat.
• Add chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
• Add pork slices and continue cooking for another 2 minutes.
• Toss in shrimp and cook until pink, about 1-2 minutes. Remove proteins from the wok and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

• In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil.
• Sauté minced garlic and sliced onions until fragrant and translucent.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

• Add carrots, bell peppers, green beans, and cabbage.
• Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

• Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, calamansi juice, black pepper, and sugar.
• Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 6: Add the Noodles and Proteins

• Toss in the softened noodles, stirring well to coat with the sauce.
• Return the cooked proteins to the wok and mix thoroughly.
• Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until everything is well combined and noodles are cooked through.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

• Transfer the Pancit to a serving platter.
• Garnish with chopped green onions, crispy fried garlic, and lemon or calamansi wedges.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

• Pancit Canton: Substitute bihon noodles with egg noodles for a chewier texture.
• Pancit Malabon: Use thick rice noodles and top with shrimp, boiled eggs, and smoked fish flakes.
• Vegetarian Pancit: Skip the meat and shrimp, and add tofu or more vegetables like mushrooms and bean sprouts.
• Spicy Pancit: Add chili flakes or chopped red chilies for a spicy kick.
• Seafood Pancit: Use a combination of shrimp, squid, and fish for a seafood twist.

Cooking Notes

• Avoid overcooking the noodles, as they can become mushy.
• Adjust the sauce ingredients to your taste; add more soy sauce for saltiness or sugar for sweetness.
• For extra flavor, cook the proteins in butter instead of oil.
• Using a well-seasoned wok enhances the dish’s taste.

Serving Suggestions

Filipino Pancit is best served with:

• A side of pandesal or crusty bread
• Filipino-style fried chicken or lumpia (spring rolls)
• Topped with crispy fried chicharrón (pork rinds) for extra crunch
• A cold glass of calamansi juice or mango juice

Helpful Tips

• Always prepare ingredients before cooking, as stir-frying is a quick process.
• Use a mix of soy sauce brands for a richer umami taste.
• Stir-fry the vegetables quickly to retain their crunch.
• Add a little sesame oil for extra depth of flavor.

Tips for the Best Filipino Pancit

• Use fresh, high-quality noodles for the best texture.
• Don’t overcook shrimp remove them once they turn pink.
• Toss noodles gently to avoid breaking them.
• Balance flavors by adjusting soy sauce, oyster sauce, and calamansi juice.

Best Similar Recipes :

• Green Spaghetti Recipe
• Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
• Creamy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
• Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I make Pancit ahead of time?
Yes! Reheat with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

2. Can I freeze Pancit?
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to a month.

3. Can I use beef instead of chicken?
Yes! Thinly sliced beef works well.

Conclusion

Filipino Pancit is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it at a fiesta or a regular family dinner, this noodle dish is sure to be a hit. Try different variations to suit your taste and enjoy this classic Filipino favorite!

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