The Philippines is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, influenced by various cultures over the centuries. Among the iconic dishes of Filipino cuisine, Pancit holds a special place. This generic term refers to a variety of noodle dishes, each with its own flavors and preparation styles. To discover these authentic delights, travel to the Philippines with Philippine Airlines, where Pancit is as much appreciated in everyday meals as in grand celebrations.
The word “Pancit” derives from the Hokkien term “pian i sit,” which means “something quickly cooked.” Chinese settlers first introduced noodles to the Philippines, and over time, locals adapted these dishes to their own tastes, creating a unique fusion of flavors. Pancit is not only a tribute to this Sino-Filipino influence but also an example of the culinary ingenuity of the Filipino people. There are many varieties of Pancit, each with its own ingredients and preparation methods. For example, Pancit Canton is made with yellow noodles stir-fried with chicken, pork, shrimp, and vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and peas. It is often seasoned with soy sauce and sometimes calamansi (a small Filipino citrus fruit). Pancit Bihon uses thin rice noodles stir-fried with chicken, pork, or seafood, and mixed with vegetables. This dish is known for its light yet flavorful taste, often enhanced by a touch of fish sauce.
Originating from the coastal town of Malabon, a district of Manila, Pancit Malabon is distinguished by its thick yellow noodles, often topped with shrimp, squid, hard-boiled eggs, and chicharrón (fried pork skin). The rich and creamy sauce is seafood-based. Pancit Palabok, on the other hand, is known for its distinct orange sauce made from shrimp and annatto. The rice noodles are topped with shrimp, pork bits, hard-boiled eggs, and sprinkled with crushed chicharrón and green onions.
Pancit is more than just a noodle dish. In Filipino cuisine, it symbolizes longevity and health, making it a popular choice for birthday parties and celebrations. The long noodles are believed to represent a long life, and it is considered bad luck to cut them before serving. The preparation of Pancit varies depending on the recipe, but it generally follows a few basic steps. The noodles are often pre-cooked and set aside. The meats and vegetables are cut into uniform pieces to ensure quick and even cooking. The meats are first stir-fried until golden and cooked through. The vegetables are then added and quickly sautéed to retain their crunch. The pre-cooked noodles are added to the meat and vegetable mixture, then seasoned with soy sauce, fish sauce, or other condiments. The dish is stir-fried until the flavors are well combined.
Pancit is appreciated for its flexibility and ability to be tailored to individual tastes. It can be served as a main dish or as a side, and pairs well with various sauces and condiments. The versatility of Pancit allows each Filipino family to put its own spin on the dish, making every meal a unique experience. In summary, Pancit is a true icon of Filipino cuisine. Its richness in flavors, fascinating history, and cultural significance make it a must-try dish for anyone looking to explore the gastronomy of the Philippines. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday meal, Pancit always promises to delight the taste buds.