Filipino pancit is a beloved noodle dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and colorful vegetables. Traditionally made with meat and seafood, this recipe offers a delightful vegetarian twist without compromising on the authentic taste and texture.
Whether you’re a vegetarian looking to explore Filipino cuisine or simply craving a comforting, healthy meal, this pancit recipe is perfect for you. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutritious ingredients, and wonderfully versatile.
Each bite delivers a satisfying umami flavor, enhanced by fresh veggies and savory seasonings that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the Philippines.
In this blog, I’ll guide you through making an easy, flavorful Filipino pancit vegetarian style that’s perfect for any occasion. From simple ingredients to handy tips, get ready to master this classic Filipino dish and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Filipino pancit recipe vegetarian is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional Filipino favorite without meat. It’s incredibly adaptable, so you can customize the vegetables according to what you have on hand or prefer.
The dish is naturally gluten-free if you use rice noodles, and it’s both light and filling, making it suitable for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Additionally, the recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. It balances textures beautifully – soft noodles, crunchy veggies, and a sauce that ties everything together with a subtle savory flavor.
This dish also offers a great introduction to Filipino cooking for vegetarians and vegans alike. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with many other plant-based meals, such as those featured in our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals.
Ingredients
- 200g rice noodles (bihon or canton noodles if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms or button mushrooms
- 1 cup firm tofu, cubed and lightly pan-fried (optional)
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster mushroom sauce or vegetarian oyster sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 stalks green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Calamansi or lemon wedges (for serving)
Equipment
- Large wok or deep skillet
- Medium mixing bowl
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Strainer or colander (for noodles)
Instructions
- Soak the rice noodles: Place the rice noodles in a large bowl and cover with warm water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes or until they are pliable but not fully soft. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the noodles soak, julienne the carrots, slice the onions, chop the green beans, shred the cabbage, and slice the mushrooms. If using tofu, cube and lightly pan-fry until golden.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onions, stirring frequently until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add vegetables: Toss in the carrots, green beans, mushrooms, and cabbage. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften but remain crisp and vibrant.
- Pour in the broth and sauces: Add the vegetable broth, soy sauce, and vegetarian oyster sauce. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the noodles and tofu: Add the drained noodles and tofu cubes to the wok. Using tongs or a spatula, gently toss everything together to ensure the noodles soak up the broth and the flavors combine. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Season and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh pop of flavor.
- Serve with calamansi or lemon wedges: Squeeze fresh calamansi or lemon juice over the pancit just before eating for a bright, tangy finish.
Tips & Variations
“For best texture, avoid overcooking the noodles — they should be soft but not mushy.”
- Use cabbage, snow peas, bell peppers, or snap peas as additional vegetables to add color and crunch.
- For a different protein option, try adding tempeh or seitan strips instead of tofu.
- If you want a gluten-free version, choose tamari instead of soy sauce and verify your oyster sauce is vegetarian and gluten-free.
- Add a splash of sesame oil or toasted sesame seeds for a nutty aroma and richer flavor.
- Serve with Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet finish or pair with Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes for a creamy side treat.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 10 g |
Carbohydrates | 45 g |
Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
Fat | 6 g |
Sodium | 650 mg |
Vitamin A | 90% DV |
Vitamin C | 70% DV |
Serving Suggestions
Pancit is traditionally served family-style, making it ideal for gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with a side of Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the warm, savory noodles.
For a complete Filipino-inspired vegetarian meal, serve with lumpia (vegetarian spring rolls) or steamed vegetable dumplings. Don’t forget the calamansi or lemon wedges – the acidity really elevates the flavors!
A light iced tea or fresh fruit shake complements the meal perfectly.
Conclusion
This Filipino pancit vegetarian recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the authentic flavors of the Philippines while embracing a plant-based lifestyle. It’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and packed with fresh vegetables and bold seasonings that make each bite satisfying and delicious.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this pancit will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or add your favorite plant-based proteins to customize it to your liking. Don’t forget to check out other amazing vegetarian and vegan recipes on our site, like the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to accompany your meals.
Enjoy cooking and savor every flavorful bite!
📖 Recipe Card: Filipino Pancit Recipe Vegetarian
Description: A delicious and healthy vegetarian version of the classic Filipino pancit. Packed with fresh vegetables and savory flavors, it's perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g rice noodles (bihon)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup green beans, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup snow peas
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 lemon or calamansi, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Soak rice noodles in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic and onions until fragrant and translucent.
- Add carrots, green beans, mushrooms, and snow peas; cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and soy sauce; bring to a simmer.
- Add cabbage and soaked noodles; toss to combine and cook until noodles are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with lemon or calamansi slices.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 7 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 50 g
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