Pancit is one of the most beloved dishes in Filipino cuisine, known for its savory flavors, quick preparation, and comforting appeal. Whether it's for a family meal, a birthday celebration, or a casual get-together, this noodle dish never fails to satisfy.
If you’re craving pancit but don’t have much time, this quick and easy pancit recipe will help you whip up a delicious meal in just 30 minutes!
What is Pancit?
Pancit is a general term for Filipino noodle dishes, which come in many varieties. The two most common types are Pancit Bihon, which uses thin rice noodles, and Pancit Canton, made with thicker egg noodles similar to Chinese lo mein. Both versions are stir-fried with a mix of vegetables, meat, and seasonings, making them a flavorful and satisfying dish.
This recipe focuses on Pancit Bihon, as it’s one of the quickest and easiest types to prepare. However, you can substitute with pancit canton if you prefer a chewier noodle texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Noodles:
8 ounces rice stick noodles (bihon)
For the Protein:
1/2 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional)
Vegetables:
1 cup cabbage, shredded
1/2 cup carrots, julienned
1/2 cup green beans, sliced diagonally
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce & Seasonings:
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)
1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water
1 tablespoon cooking oil
Garnish:
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 lemon, sliced into wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Soak the rice stick noodles in warm water for about 10 minutes, or until they soften. Drain and set aside. Avoid over-soaking, as the noodles will continue to cook in the broth later.
Step 2: Cook the Protein
Heat a large pan or wok over medium heat and add cooking oil. Sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until no longer pink. If using shrimp, add them at this stage and cook until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Toss in the carrots, green beans, and cabbage. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they start to soften but remain crisp.
Step 4: Create the Flavor Base
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), black pepper, salt, and sugar. Stir everything well to coat the ingredients in the sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Add the chicken broth or water to the pan and bring it to a gentle simmer. Toss in the soaked bihon noodles, ensuring they absorb the liquid and the flavors from the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until the noodles are tender and well combined with the other ingredients.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped green onions on top and give everything a final toss. Serve with lemon wedges on the side, squeezing fresh juice over the noodles for a bright, citrusy finish.
Tips for the Best Pancit
Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and quality meat or seafood will enhance the flavor and texture.
Don’t over-soak the noodles – They should be soft but still firm enough to absorb the sauce while cooking.
Adjust the seasoning – Taste your pancit before serving and adjust salt or soy sauce as needed.
Customize it – Add other proteins like pork, tofu, or hard-boiled eggs for variety.
Serve immediately – Pancit is best enjoyed fresh, as the noodles can absorb too much liquid over time and become soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! While pancit is best enjoyed fresh, you can make it ahead and reheat it in a pan with a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out.
2. What other vegetables can I add?
Bell peppers, mushrooms, celery, or snap peas are great additions for extra flavor and crunch.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken and shrimp with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.
5. What’s the difference between Pancit Bihon and Pancit Canton?
Pancit Bihon uses thin rice noodles, while Pancit Canton is made with thicker, wheat-based egg noodles. Both are stir-fried but have slightly different textures.
Final Thoughts
Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, this Pancit Bihon recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can enjoy a taste of the Philippines in no time. Try it today and impress your family and friends with a homemade Filipino classic!
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