Pancit – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Philippines Region / Locale: Filipino Servings: 4-6
Philippines Region / Locale: Filipino Servings: 4-6Pancit is a traditional Filipino noodle dish that reflects the country’s rich cultural tapestry. Influenced by Chinese trade centuries ago, this beloved dish has been adapted into countless regional variations across the Philippines. Made with rice noodles, vegetables, and meat or seafood, pancit embodies the harmonious blend of simplicity and complexity, capturing the essence of Filipino comfort food.
Ingredients
- Rice noodles – 16 oz / 450 g
- Chicken breast, thinly sliced – 300 g / 10.5 oz
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined – 200 g / 7 oz
- Carrot, julienned – 1 medium
- Cabbage, shredded – 1 cup / 90 g
- Garlic, minced – 4 cloves
- Onion, sliced – 1 medium
- Soy sauce – 1/4 cup / 60 ml
- Oyster sauce – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- Chicken broth – 2 cups / 480 ml
- Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- Lemon, sliced (for serving) – 1
- Salt and pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Soak the rice noodles in warm water for about 15 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken slices until lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes, then add the shrimp and cook until pink. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil, then sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add julienned carrots and cabbage to the pan, stir-frying for about 2 minutes.
- Mix in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the soaked noodles to the pan, tossing well to combine with the vegetables and sauce. Stir in the cooked chicken and shrimp.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until noodles are tender and fully absorbed the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, with lemon slices on the side.
Substitutions
- Rice noodles -> Egg noodles
- Chicken breast -> Pork slices
- Shrimp -> Tofu (for a vegetarian option)
- Oyster sauce -> Hoisin sauce
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Include marinating the chicken in soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Add sliced bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and crushed peanuts for a fresh crunch.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
