How to Make Pancit Canton (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Pancit Canton is a beloved Filipino noodle dish, recognized for its vibrant medley of vegetables, lean meats, and savory egg noodles. Traditionally served at gatherings and family celebrations, Pancit Canton brings people together with its hearty flavors and festive presentation. This dish is a staple in the Philippines, especially during birthdays and special occasions, as noodles are believed to symbolize long life and good fortune. The dish is characterized by springy wheat noodles stir-fried with a colorful assortment of vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and snow peas, along with strips of lean chicken and shrimp. Its mild, savory sauce highlights local seasonings such as soy sauce and calamansi juice. Pancit Canton offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors—crunchy vegetables, tender meat, and chewy noodles—that appeals to children and adults alike. Enjoying Pancit Canton not only satisfies the palate but also provides a comforting connection to Filipino heritage and communal dining traditions.
Ingredients
- 150g Dried egg noodles (Pancit Canton noodles) (available in Asian stores)
- 100g Skinless chicken breast (sliced thinly)
- 80g Medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 cup Cabbage (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Carrot (julienned)
- 1/2 cup Snow peas (trimmed)
- 1/4 cup Red bell pepper (sliced thinly)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 small Onion (sliced)
- 2 tbsp Low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Oyster sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 cup Chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 tbsp Calamansi juice (or substitute with lemon juice)
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil (for sautéing)
- to taste Freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare all vegetables by washing
Prepare all vegetables by washing, peeling, and slicing as needed. Slice the chicken breast thinly and peel and devein the shrimp.
Step 2 · Heat vegetable oil in a large wok over medium heat
Heat vegetable oil in a large wok over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent.
Step 3 · Add chicken breast slices to the wok and cook until lightly browned
Add chicken breast slices to the wok and cook until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink.
Step 4 · Add carrots
Add carrots, bell pepper, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 2 minutes, then add the shredded cabbage. Cook until vegetables are crisp-tender.
Step 5 · Pour in low-sodium soy sauce
Pour in low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 6 · Add the dried Pancit Canton noodles directly to the wok
Add the dried Pancit Canton noodles directly to the wok. Toss frequently to coat in sauce and cook evenly, until noodles are tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 7 · Finish with calamansi juice and freshly ground black pepper
Finish with calamansi juice and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well, remove from heat, and serve immediately.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy Pancit Canton recipe is lower in fat and sodium compared to traditional preparations, thanks to lean protein choices and minimal oil. By maximizing vegetables and using whole foods, it supports weight management and overall wellness. Stir-frying at high heat helps preserve nutrients in the vegetables, making it a wholesome and satisfying option for lunch or a light dinner. The balance of protein, fiber, and complex carbs keeps you full and energized.
A note on tradition
Pancit Canton is a cherished Filipino noodle dish with roots in Chinese culinary influence, yet it has been fully embraced and adapted into the Filipino table. It is commonly served during birthday celebrations, fiestas, and family gatherings across the country, symbolizing long life and prosperity. Each region in the Philippines may have its own twist, but the use of local vegetables and proteins makes it uniquely Filipino. Pancit Canton reflects the Filipino value of sharing food and celebrating togetherness.