As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of sautéed garlic and onions transported me back to family gatherings filled with laughter and love. That’s the magic behind Filipino Shrimp Pancit Canton, a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and hearty noodles in a savory shrimp broth. Not only is this easy weeknight meal packed with flavor, but it also brings a taste of home when you need a comforting bite without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for its quick prep and satisfying taste. Curious about how to make this deliciously warm dish a staple in your home? Let’s dive in!
Why will you crave this dish?
Authentic Flavor: This Shrimp Pancit Canton is a beautiful representation of Filipino cuisine, delivering a burst of flavors that’ll transport you to bustling streets filled with food stalls.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked meal without the fuss.
Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with fresh vegetables like carrots and snow peas, this dish is a wholesome option that ensures you get your daily veggies while indulging in comfort food.
Customizable Delight: Feeling adventurous? You can easily substitute with your favorite proteins or vegetables, making it adaptable to what you have on hand.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this colorful dish is sure to impress and can be served alongside traditional favorites like lumpiang Shanghai or even dessert like leche flan for a complete experience.
Shrimp Pancit Canton Ingredients
For the Broth
• Large Shrimp – Provides sweetness and juiciness; use shell and head intact for maximum flavor in broth.
• Homemade Shrimp Broth – Acts as a flavorful base for the dish; can substitute with store-bought seafood stock if needed.
For the Stir-Fry
• Refined Coconut Oil – A clean, high-heat cooking fat ensuring even cooking without overpowering flavors.
• Onion – Adds natural sweetness and depth; finely chop for even cooking.
• Garlic – Enhances umami and aroma; use fresh, minced garlic for best results.
• Snow Peas – Lends fresh crunch and light sweetness; remove tips and strings before use.
• Carrots – Contributes color and mild sweetness; cut into strips for even cooking.
• Green Beans – Provides structure and crispness; cut in thin bias slices.
• Soy Sauce – Delivers saltiness and umami; adjust based on personal taste.
• Oyster Sauce – Adds depth and slight sweetness; key for a rich flavor profile.
• Kosher Salt – Fine-tunes overall seasoning; adjust amount based on taste preference.
• Ground Black Pepper – Offers gentle heat; add to taste for complexity.
For the Noodles
• Pancit Canton Noodles – Absorb broth and flavors; consider the brand as cooking times vary.
• Cabbage – Softens while cooking, adding volume and mild sweetness; chop coarsely.
• Kinchay (Chinese Celery) – Provides a fresh, peppery note; can substitute with regular celery or herbs.
For Garnishing
• Fresh Calamansi – Gives acidity that balances richness; substitute with lemon if not available.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Pancit Canton
Step 1: Prepare Broth
Start by removing the shells and heads from the large shrimp, reserving them for flavor. In a pot, combine the shrimp shells with water, a pinch of salt, black pepper, and soy sauce. Bring this mixture to a boil for 30 seconds, then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes. Strain this broth and set it aside for later use in your Shrimp Pancit Canton.
Step 2: Cook Shrimp
While the broth simmers, season the peeled shrimp with some salt and ground black pepper. Allow them to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors. Heat a tablespoon of refined coconut oil in a pan over medium-high heat and lightly cook the shrimp in batches for about 1 minute on each side, or until they turn pink. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pan, add a touch more coconut oil if needed and sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat until it turns translucent, about 3 minutes. Once the onion is ready, add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Follow with snow peas and carrot strips, cooking briefly for another 2 minutes, just until the veggies are tender yet crisp.
Step 4: Add Remaining Veggies
Next, incorporate the sliced green beans into your pan along with additional soy sauce and oyster sauce for flavor enhancement. Season with kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste. Quickly return the cooked shrimp to the mixture, tossing everything to combine just for a minute. This will ensure the shrimp are evenly distributed throughout the vegetables.
Step 5: Cook Noodles
Pour the prepared shrimp broth back into the pan and bring the mixture to a boil. Once bubbling, add the pancit canton noodles, stirring continuously so they absorb the delicious flavors of the broth. Cook for about 3 minutes or until the noodles are tender but still have a slight bite to them. Watch for them to become soft and have soaked up the broth.
Step 6: Incorporate Mix
Once the noodles are cooked, gently fold the shrimp and vegetable mixture into the pan, tossing until everything is heated through, about another 2 minutes. This will allow the flavors of the Shrimp Pancit Canton to meld beautifully while ensuring that everything is evenly distributed and warmed up.
Step 7: Finish & Serve
With everything combined, finish your Shrimp Pancit Canton by topping with coarsely chopped kinchay (Chinese celery) for a fresh punch. Serve it family-style, accompanied by fresh calamansi on the side for a zesty squeeze. Enjoy the colorful, savory aroma as you bring this delightful dish to the table!
Make Ahead Options
These Filipino Shrimp Pancit Canton are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the shrimp broth and chop all the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance; just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to retain their freshness. Additionally, the uncooked shrimp can be seasoned and marinated beforehand—this enhances their flavor, too! When you’re ready to serve, simply cook everything together following the original instructions, ensuring you add the shrimp at the end to prevent overcooking. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal on the table with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Pancit Canton
Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy Shrimp Pancit Canton fresh; however, if left out, it should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container before placing them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive moisture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, you can freeze Shrimp Pancit Canton for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container and separate the noodles from the broth if possible to maintain texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on medium heat, adding a bit of broth or water to keep the noodles from drying out.
Shrimp Pancit Canton Variations
Feel free to experiment with these delightful twists and substitutions that will elevate your Shrimp Pancit Canton experience!
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Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or tofu for a heartier meal without losing the shrimp flavor. Consider marinating the alternative protein to soak up those delicious seasonings!
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Vegetable Medley: Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or even baby corn for an extra burst of color and nutrition. These can add a delightful texture and taste that appeals to veggie lovers.
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Gluten-Free: Swap traditional pancit canton noodles for rice noodles or even spiralized zucchini for a wholesome gluten-free alternative. You’ll still enjoy that satisfying texture without the gluten.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced chili peppers or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for those who enjoy a little heat. A hint of spice can transform your dish into a fiery feast!
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Coconut Cream: For an extra creamy element, stir in a dollop of coconut cream right before serving. This adds a luxurious texture and a hint of sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
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Savory Topping: Consider garnishing with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. This simple addition can elevate the dish further and add an exciting visual appeal.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can be tossed in at the end for a fragrant aroma and fresh flavor. These will brighten the dish and give it an aromatic lift.
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Seafood Variety: Why not mix it up with additional seafood like scallops or crab? Check out my Crab Shrimp Bisque for inspiration on how to bring the ocean’s bounty to your table while retaining that shrimp focus!
By experimenting with these variations, your Shrimp Pancit Canton will never get boring, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your taste buds!
What to Serve with Filipino Shrimp Pancit Canton
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich, savory flavors of your Shrimp Pancit Canton.
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Lumpiang Shanghai: These crispy Filipino spring rolls bring a beautiful crunch and savory goodness, making them a perfect appetizer alongside your noodles.
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Pancit Malabon: A heartier noodle dish packed with seafood and shrimp sauce, it echoes the main’s flavors while adding a delightful texture contrast.
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Lechon Kawali: The crispiness of this deep-fried pork belly adds a savory bite that will lift your meal, inviting you to enjoy every last noodle.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Light and refreshing, this provides a crisp balance to the hearty pancit, with a zesty vinaigrette to brighten the palate.
A mini-paragraph here: To cleanse the palate, think about a fresh mango salad. Toss diced mango with red onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a vibrant, sweet contrast.
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Calamansi Juice: This tangy drink made from fresh calamansi adds a refreshing zest that enhances the richness of the dish while cleansing the palate beautifully.
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Ube Halo-Halo: End on a sweet note with this colorful dessert; its varied textures and sweet flavors are the perfect finish after a savory meal.
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Coconut Sticky Rice: Sweet and sticky, this dessert echoes the tropical notes of Filipino cuisine, providing a delightful contrast to savory dishes.
Add these delightful sides to your table, and create a remarkably vibrant family meal experience around your Shrimp Pancit Canton!
Expert Tips for Shrimp Pancit Canton
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Prep Ingredients First: Set out all your chopped vegetables and shrimp before cooking. This eases the cooking process and helps you work efficiently.
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Avoid Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; aim for about 1 minute on each side. If overcooked, they’ll become rubbery, so add them back in just before serving.
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Taste the Broth: Don’t hesitate to adjust your shrimp broth’s seasonings with salt and soy sauce before adding the noodles. This ensures the Shrimp Pancit Canton is perfectly flavored.
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Choose the Right Noodles: Pay attention to your brand of pancit canton noodles, as cooking times may vary. Test them for tenderness before mixing them with the shrimp and veggies.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal or favorite vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers and mushrooms make excellent additions for variety and flavor.
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Garnish Boldly: Serve with fresh calamansi or lemon slices to drizzle over the dish. This zesty addition elevates the flavors of the Shrimp Pancit Canton beautifully.
Filipino Shrimp Pancit Canton Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Filipino Shrimp Pancit Canton, opt for large, fresh shrimp. Look for shrimp that’s firm to the touch and has a mild, sweet aroma. If possible, keep the shells and heads on, as these will enhance the broth’s flavor when cooked.
How should I store leftover Shrimp Pancit Canton?
After enjoying your delicious meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to maintain moisture and prevent the noodles from becoming dry and tough.
Can I freeze Shrimp Pancit Canton?
Sure thing! To freeze your Shrimp Pancit Canton, consider separating the noodles from the shrimp and broth. Store each component in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, adding a bit of broth or water as needed.
What should I do if my shrimp turn rubbery?
Very important! If your shrimp become rubbery, it likely means they were overcooked. To ensure tenderness, aim for just 1 minute of cooking time per side. Add the shrimp back to the pan at the end of cooking, just long enough to heat through without further cooking them.
Can I modify the dish for dietary restrictions?
The more the merrier! If you have dietary considerations, you can easily modify the ingredients. For a pescatarian option, stick with shrimp and vegetables. If someone has allergies, be cautious with soy sauce and oyster sauce, as both contain common allergens. Consider using gluten-free soy sauce or a different stir-fry sauce tailored to specific dietary needs.
How can I tell if the vegetables in the Pancit Canton are properly cooked?
Perfect question! As you’re sautéing, the vegetables should be bright and colorful, with a slight crunch left—especially the snow peas and carrots. Aim for a tender-crisp texture, which typically takes around 2-3 minutes of cooking time. A great visual cue is that they shouldn’t lose their vibrant color!
Delicious Shrimp Pancit Canton: A Flavorful Home-Cooked Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Broth: Combine shrimp shells with water, a pinch of salt, black pepper, and soy sauce. Boil for 30 seconds, then simmer for 5 minutes. Strain broth and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: Season shrimp with salt and ground black pepper. Marinate for 15 minutes. Heat coconut oil and cook shrimp for about 1 minute on each side until pink. Set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add onion and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add snow peas and carrots, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Add Remaining Veggies: Incorporate green beans, soy sauce, oyster sauce, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Return shrimp to the pan and toss to combine for 1 minute.
- Cook Noodles: Pour shrimp broth into the pan and bring to a boil. Add pancakes canton noodles, stirring continuously for about 3 minutes or until tender.
- Incorporate Mix: Gently fold in the shrimp and vegetables, tossing until heated through (about 2 minutes).
- Finish & Serve: Top with chopped kinchay and serve with fresh calamansi on the side.