Filipino · serves 2

Pancit

Filipino rice noodles with cabbage and tofu. Cheap, fast, feeds a crowd.

30 min Some work Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 250g rice vermicelli
  • 1/2 cabbage, shredded
  • 2 carrots, in matchsticks
  • 50g broad beans, sliced
  • 150g tofu, cubed and fried
  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 cup water
  • Salt

Method

  1. Soak the vermicelli in cold water for half an hour. Don't boil it — it turns to paste.
  2. Fry the garlic, then the fried tofu and cabbage. A minute, then a cup of water.
  3. Soy sauce and salt, bring to a boil, then carrots and beans. Simmer 5 minutes.
  4. Drained noodles in. Toss and cook 5 minutes until every strand is coated and the liquid is gone.
  5. Cover, off the heat, 5 minutes before serving.

Questions people ask about Pancit

How long does Pancit take?

About 30 minutes from starting to sitting down, and it is a bit of work. Most of that is active, so read the method through before you start rather than chopping as you go.

What is the one thing to get right in Pancit?

Soak the vermicelli in cold water for half an hour. Don't boil it — it turns to paste.

What can I use instead of tofu in Pancit?

Use paneer, cubed the same size. It browns faster, so drop the heat slightly.

Can I make Pancit ahead of time?

You can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. It keeps two days in the fridge, though it is best on the day.

Is Pancit vegetarian?

Yes, and as written it is vegan too. Check your specific brands if that matters to you.

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