Pancit: A Noodle Dish with a Colorful History
8 Servings
Pancit, the beloved Filipino noodle dish, is a staple at celebrations and a comfort food enjoyed in countless households. With its colorful medley of vegetables, savory meat or seafood, and bouncy noodles, Pancit is a versatile dish that comes in many regional variations.
10min Prep
25min Cook
INGREDIENTS
- 1 lb dried pancit noodles (bihon, canton, or miki)
- 1/2 lb chicken or pork, sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup cooking oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
- 1/2 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1/4 cup snow peas (optional)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp oyster sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Cook the noodles: Follow package instructions to cook the pancit noodles. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the meat: In a large wok or pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken or pork and cook until lightly browned.
- Add aromatics and vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, carrots, cabbage, and snow peas (if using). Sauté until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Season: Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Combine with noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for a few more minutes until the noodles are heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
The Story of Pancit
Pancit’s roots trace back to Chinese traders who brought noodles to the Philippines centuries ago. The word “pancit” itself is derived from the Hokkien term “pian e sit,” meaning “something conveniently cooked.” Over time, Filipinos adapted the dish, incorporating local ingredients and flavors, creating a wide variety of pancit dishes that reflect the country’s diverse culinary heritage.
Today, Pancit is a symbol of celebration and togetherness, often served at birthdays, holidays, and special occasions. Its long noodles are believed to symbolize long life, making it a dish that’s both delicious and auspicious.