If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor, texture, and vibrant colors, you’re going to love this Filipino Pancit Canton Recipe. This beloved noodle stir-fry is a comforting feast of tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and crisp vegetables all tossed with savory soy and fish sauces. The wide, chewy Pancit Canton noodles soak up every bit of the rich broth, making each bite an irresistible combination of tastes that perfectly captures the spirit of Filipino home cooking. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but play essential roles in creating that classic Pancit Canton flavor. Each element adds a unique touch—whether it’s the sweetness of fresh carrots, the savory punch of garlic, or the vibrant crunch from snow peas, you’ll see how everything works together beautifully.
- Vegetable oil: The perfect neutral base for sautéing and bringing all the flavors together without overpowering the dish.
- Onion, thinly sliced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aroma that forms the foundation of the stir-fry.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses every mouthful with that unmistakable fragrant kick you want in Pancit Canton.
- Carrot, julienned: Provides a sweet crunch and vibrant orange color that brightens the plate.
- Bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and a pop of red hue for visual appeal and flavor balance.
- Cabbage, shredded: Brings a tender crunch and volume, soaking up the savory sauce without losing texture.
- Snow peas, trimmed: Crisp and fresh, these delicately sweet veggies give a wonderful crisp texture.
- Chicken breast, thinly sliced: A lean protein that absorbs all the delicious sauces and remains tender.
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a succulent seafood sweetness that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Chicken broth: Enriches the sauce with depth and a natural savoriness that ties the ingredients together.
- Soy sauce: The salty, umami backbone that defines the dish’s signature flavor.
- Fish sauce (optional): Adds an extra layer of authentic Filipino umami and a bit of saltiness.
- Pancit Canton noodles: Wide, chewy egg noodles that soak up the flavors and hold everything beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for fine-tuning the seasoning and balancing all tastes.
- Calamansi or lemon, for serving: A citrusy zing that brightens the entire dish just before eating.
- Chopped green onions, for garnish: Fresh and colorful, they add a textural contrast and mild oniony punch.
How to Make Filipino Pancit Canton Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Begin by cooking the Pancit Canton noodles according to the package instructions, usually boiling them for three to five minutes until tender but still firm. This ensures they have the perfect chewiness that gives Pancit Canton its signature bite. Drain the noodles well and set them aside so they’re ready to absorb the delicious sauce later.
Step 2: Cook the Meat and Shrimp
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast and shrimp, cooking just until they turn opaque and are cooked through. This quick cooking helps the proteins stay juicy and tender without overcooking. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside to make room for the vegetables.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, toss in the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic releases its amazing aroma. Then add the carrots, bell peppers, and snow peas, continuing to cook for two to three minutes until the vegetables are tender but still delightfully crisp. This layering of textures is what makes Pancit Canton a truly satisfying dish.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients with Sauce
Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and fish sauce if using. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for two to three minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. This step infuses the noodles with all those deep, savory flavors that make the dish so crave-worthy.
Step 5: Add the Noodles
Now it’s time for the star of the show—the cooked Pancit Canton noodles. Add them carefully to the pan and toss gently so that every strand gets coated evenly with the savory sauce and mingles perfectly with the meats and veggies. This is where everything comes together, creating that scrumptious and comforting noodle stir-fry.
Step 6: Season and Finish
Taste your Pancit Canton and season with salt and pepper to suit your preference. Serve it hot with a squeeze of fresh calamansi or lemon juice over the top—this brightens the dish and adds a lovely citrus contrast. Finally, sprinkle on the chopped green onions for a pop of fresh color and flavor that truly elevates the presentation.
How to Serve Filipino Pancit Canton Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing Pancit Canton with chopped green onions not only adds a vibrant splash of green but also infuses a fresh, subtle onion flavor that balances out the richness of the dish. The squeeze of calamansi or lemon right before serving is a classic finishing touch that awakens the palate and cuts through the savory sauce, making every bite lively and refreshing.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. You might serve it alongside lumpia (Filipino spring rolls) for a crunchy contrast or a refreshing cucumber salad to add a crisp, cool element. These sides round out the meal and make it feel complete, whether you’re sharing it family-style or serving individual portions.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, consider plating Filipino Pancit Canton in a beautiful shallow bowl, garnished with extra lime wedges and a sprinkle of toasted garlic bits for added crunch. You can even serve it on banana leaves for an authentic touch that brings an appealing aroma and rustic charm to your table. Presentation matters, and a thoughtful display makes this comfort food feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Filipino Pancit Canton keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The noodles may continue to soften, but the flavors deepen, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners. Just be sure to cool it before storing to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal for Pancit Canton since the noodles can become mushy when thawed. If you choose to freeze, separate portions into freezer-safe containers and use within one month. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Pancit Canton in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce and keep the noodles from drying out. Heat gently while stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid microwave reheating when possible, as it can make the noodles tougher.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles instead of Pancit Canton?
Absolutely! While Pancit Canton noodles are traditional and ideal for their texture, you can substitute with other egg noodles or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just be mindful of cooking times since different noodles cook differently.
Is fish sauce necessary for the recipe?
Fish sauce adds a wonderful depth of umami and authentic Filipino flavor but is optional. You can leave it out or adjust the amount of soy sauce if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can easily swap chicken and shrimp for tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms and broccoli, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Just be sure to use soy sauce without added fish sauce to keep it vegan.
How can I make Pancit Canton more flavorful?
Try adding a bit of roasted garlic oil or topping it with toasted garlic chips for extra aroma and crunch. A dash of white pepper can also enhance the spice profile without overpowering the dish.
What is the best way to cut vegetables for Pancit Canton?
Julienned or thinly sliced vegetables work best—they cook quickly and evenly, preserving a bit of crunch that contrasts nicely with the noodles. Avoid chopping them too thick or unevenly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing a Filipino Pancit Canton Recipe. It’s a dish that brings people together with its comforting flavors and beautiful colors. Whether it’s your first time trying it or you’re revisiting a beloved classic, I encourage you to give this recipe a go—it’s a wonderful way to experience a taste of the Philippines right in your own kitchen. Happy cooking and buen provecho!
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Filipino Pancit Canton Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine with this classic Pancit recipe. Featuring tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and fresh vegetables tossed with savory Pancit Canton noodles, this dish is a quick and satisfying stir-fry perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Protein
- 200 grams chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 150 grams shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ cup cabbage, shredded
- ½ cup snow peas, trimmed
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
Other
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 200 grams Pancit Canton noodles
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Calamansi or lemon, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook the Pancit Canton noodles according to the package instructions, typically boiling them for 3 to 5 minutes until tender but firm. Drain well and set aside to prevent them from sticking.
- Cook the Meat and Shrimp: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast and shrimp, cooking just until they are opaque and cooked through. Remove them from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent. Add the julienned carrots, bell pepper slices, and trimmed snow peas, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp but still vibrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and optional fish sauce. Stir everything together and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Add the Noodles: Add the cooked Pancit Canton noodles to the pan. Toss thoroughly to combine, ensuring the noodles are coated evenly with the savory sauce mixture.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Serve hot with a fresh squeeze of calamansi or lemon juice on top and garnish generously with chopped green onions for a burst of freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breast with pork or tofu for different variations.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and fish sauce according to your preferred saltiness level.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of freshly ground black pepper or a dash of oyster sauce.
- Ensure not to overcook the vegetables to retain their crunch and color.
- Calamansi may be replaced with lemon or lime if unavailable.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
