Pancit Canton: A Delicious Filipino Stir-Fried Noodle Dish 2024

Pancit Canton is a popular Filipino stir-fried noodle dish that combines savory flavors, colorful vegetables, and tender meat in a deliciously satisfying way. Known for its rich, umami-packed sauce and versatile ingredients, Pancit Canton is a favorite at family gatherings, birthday celebrations, and casual weeknight dinners. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making it a go-to choice for many Filipino households.

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The Origins of Pancit Canton

Pancit Canton is part of the broader “pancit” family, which includes various noodle dishes in Filipino cuisine. The term “pancit” is derived from the Hokkien word “pian i sit,” meaning “convenient food.” The Canton noodles used in this dish are of Chinese origin, specifically from the Canton region (now Guangzhou) in China, reflecting the influence of Chinese culinary traditions on Filipino cuisine.

The dish has evolved to incorporate local ingredients and flavors, making it a staple in Filipino cuisine. Pancit Canton is often associated with good fortune and longevity, which is why it is commonly served during celebrations and special occasions.

Ingredients

To prepare a classic Pancit Canton, you will need the following ingredients:

• 250g Pancit Canton noodles (egg noodles, available at Asian grocery stores)
• 200g pork belly (sliced thinly)
• 150g chicken breast (sliced thinly)
• 1 medium carrot (peeled and julienned)
• 1 medium bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 cup cabbage (shredded)
• 1/2 cup snow peas (trimmed)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)
• Lemon or calamansi wedges (for serving)

Optional Ingredients:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined, for added flavor)
• Mushrooms (sliced, for an umami boost)
• Bean sprouts (for extra crunch)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cook the Pancit Canton noodles according to the package instructions, usually boiling them for a few minutes until they are tender. Drain and set aside. Slice the pork belly and chicken breast into thin strips. Julienne the carrots, slice the bell pepper, and shred the cabbage. Trim the snow peas and chop the onion and garlic.

Step 2: Sautéing the Meat

Heat the cooking oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This forms the base of your dish, adding depth and aroma.

Once the onions are translucent, add the sliced pork belly to the pan. Cook the pork until it is lightly browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chicken breast strips and continue cooking until the chicken is no longer pink and is cooked through.

Step 3: Adding the Vegetables

After the meat is cooked, add the julienned carrots, sliced bell pepper, and snow peas to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to become tender but still retain some crunch. Add the shredded cabbage and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 4: Seasoning the Dish

Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce to the pan. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables with the sauce. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to slightly reduce.

Step 5: Adding the Noodles

Add the cooked Pancit Canton noodles to the pan. Gently toss the noodles with the meat and vegetables, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce. If the noodles seem dry, you can add a bit more chicken broth or water to loosen them up. Continue to stir-fry for another 5 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through and have absorbed the flavors of the sauce.

Step 6: Final Touches

Season the Pancit Canton with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, considering the saltiness of the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Once everything is well combined and the noodles are cooked to your liking, remove the pan from heat.

Garnish the Pancit Canton with chopped green onions for a fresh and colorful touch. Serve the dish hot, with lemon or calamansi wedges on the side. The citrus adds a bright, tangy contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.

Variations of Pancit Canton

Pancit Canton is a versatile dish that can be customized in various ways to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

• Seafood Pancit Canton: Add shrimp, squid, or other seafood to the dish for a seafood twist. Cook the seafood separately and add it to the pan with the vegetables. The seafood adds a delightful flavor and makes the dish more luxurious.
• Vegetarian Pancit Canton: Omit the meat and use tofu or tempeh as a protein substitute. Load up on a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, bean sprouts, and snap peas. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the dish vegetarian-friendly.
• Spicy Pancit Canton: For a spicy kick, add sliced chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dish. The heat from the chilies adds an exciting contrast to the savory and slightly sweet flavors.

• Mushroom Pancit Canton: Incorporate mushrooms for added umami and texture. Shiitake or button mushrooms work well in this dish. Slice the mushrooms and add them along with the other vegetables.

• Pancit Canton with Hard-Boiled Eggs: Add sliced hard-boiled eggs on top of the Pancit Canton for extra protein and flavor. The eggs add a creamy texture that complements the noodles and vegetables.

Tips for Making the Perfect Pancit Canton

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality meat enhance the flavor and texture of the Pancit Canton. If possible, use fresh garlic and onions, and choose good-quality Pancit Canton noodles.

• Don’t overcook the noodles: Cook the noodles until they are just tender but still slightly firm. Overcooking the noodles can make them mushy and affect the overall texture of the dish.

• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the dish as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference. The soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce provide a lot of flavor, so add salt gradually and taste frequently.

• Use a large pan or wok: A large pan or wok allows for better distribution of heat and makes it easier to stir-fry the noodles and vegetables evenly.

Conclusion

As you cook and enjoy this classic dish, you’re not just making a meal; you’re celebrating a cherished aspect of Filipino cuisine and culture. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and savor the delicious taste of Pancit Canton. Mabuhay and happy eating!