Filipino cuisine is known for its rich flavors, hearty meals, and dishes that bring families together. One of the most beloved and iconic dishes is pancit—a noodle-based recipe often served at birthdays, gatherings, and celebrations. In fact, in Filipino tradition, noodles symbolize long life and good health, which is why they’re always a staple during special occasions.
If you’ve ever wanted to cook pancit at home but weren’t sure where to start, don’t worry—this guide will walk you through simple steps to make the best pancit recipe Filipino style. It’s quick, flavorful, and versatile enough to adjust to your taste.
🥢 What is Pancit?
“Pancit” is a general term for noodle dishes in the Philippines, influenced by Chinese cuisine but made uniquely Filipino with local ingredients and flavors. There are many types, but the two most popular are:
Pancit Canton – Stir-fried egg noodles with vegetables, meat, and soy-based sauce.
Pancit Bihon – Thin rice noodles cooked with a savory broth, chicken, and vegetables.
Both versions are delicious and follow similar cooking methods, so once you learn the basics, you can experiment with different varieties.
🥬 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list of ingredients to get started with a classic pancit bihon recipe (serves 4–6):
Noodles – 1 pack of bihon (rice vermicelli) or pancit canton noodles
Protein – 1 lb chicken breast or thighs (shredded); you can also add shrimp, pork, or tofu
Vegetables – 1 cup carrots (julienned), 1 cup cabbage (shredded), 1 onion (sliced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 cup green beans (sliced)
Sauces & Seasoning – 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp fish sauce, 2 cups chicken broth, salt & pepper to taste
Garnish – Calamansi (Filipino lime) or lemon wedges, green onions, hard-boiled eggs (optional)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Noodles
If using bihon (rice noodles), soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes until soft. Drain well.
If using canton noodles, they can be added directly during cooking since they’re sturdier.
Step 2: Cook the Protein
Heat oil in a wok or large pan.
Sauté garlic and onions until fragrant.
Add chicken (or chosen protein) and cook until lightly browned.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Toss in carrots, cabbage, and green beans. Stir-fry for 3–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, and oyster sauce.
Season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
Step 5: Add Noodles
Gently mix in the softened noodles, making sure they absorb the sauce.
Stir carefully to avoid breaking the noodles.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer to a serving dish.
Top with green onions, boiled egg slices, and a squeeze of calamansi or lemon for that authentic Filipino touch.
🌟 Practical Tips for the Best Pancit
Balance the flavors – Adjust soy sauce and oyster sauce depending on how savory you like it.
Don’t overcook the noodles – Keep them springy, not mushy.
Mix proteins – Shrimp, chicken, and pork together create a rich, festive pancit.
Use calamansi if available – It gives a distinct Filipino citrus flavor that lemon alone can’t replicate.
Make it ahead – Pancit reheats well, so it’s perfect for parties and potlucks.
🎉 Why Pancit is More Than Just Food
In the Philippines, pancit is more than just a dish—it’s a symbol of togetherness and celebration. From birthdays to fiestas, it brings families and communities to the table. Making this dish at home is a way to experience not just the flavor but also the culture and tradition behind it.
Conclusion
If you’ve been searching for a flavorful, comforting, and culturally rich dish, look no further. These simple steps to make the best pancit recipe Filipino style will help you recreate a beloved classic right in your kitchen.
Whether you choose pancit bihon, canton, or mix both, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant flavors and festive presentation. Serve it with calamansi, enjoy it with loved ones, and you’ll understand why pancit is a Filipino favorite.
✨ Try it today, and you’ll see why this dish is a true staple of Filipino cuisine!