Pancit Palabok Recipe

Pancit Palabok is a dish that speaks volumes without uttering a word. Its golden-orange hue, rich aroma, and layered textures tell stories of Filipino heritage, family gatherings, and the intricate dance of flavors that define Filipino cuisine. Every bite is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship of Filipino cooks who have perfected this dish over generations.

What Is Pancit Palabok?

Pancit Palabok, often referred to as Pancit Luglug, is a traditional Filipino noodle dish characterized by its thin rice noodles drenched in a savory shrimp sauce. The sauce is a harmonious blend of shrimp stock, annatto oil, and a touch of fish sauce, creating a vibrant orange hue. Toppings such as sautéed shrimp, crispy pork belly, hard-boiled eggs, crushed chicharon (pork cracklings), flaked tinapa (smoked fish), and a sprinkle of green onions add depth and texture to the dish. A squeeze of calamansi or lemon juice elevates the flavors, adding a zesty finish.Epicurious+3filipinofoodrecipes.net+3Kusina Secrets+3Lutong Filipino+6Pancit.com+6filipinofoodrecipes.net+6Serious Eats

The dish is often enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings, symbolizing celebration and togetherness. Its origins trace back to the coastal regions of the Philippines, where seafood and rice noodles were abundant. Over time, Pancit Palabok has become a beloved comfort food, cherished for its rich flavors and cultural significance.

Ingredients & Substitutions

For the Shrimp Sauce:

• Shrimp heads and shells from 500g shrimp
• 5 cups water
• ¼ cup cooking oil
• 2 tablespoons annatto seeds (atsuete)
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 shrimp bouillon cubes
• Salt and pepper to tasteIscleecam+9Kusina Secrets+9pepper.ph+9Pancit.com

For the Toppings:

• 500g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 250g pork belly, diced
• 250g firm tofu, cubed
• ½ cup smoked fish flakes (tinapa)
• 1 head garlic, minced
• 1 cup crushed pork cracklings (chicharon)
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, quartered
• ¼ cup green onions, chopped
• Calamansi or lemon wedgesEpicurious+9Kusina Secrets+9Serious Eats+9

For the Noodles:

• 500g rice noodles (bihon) or cornstarch noodles
• Water for cooking
• Pinch of saltSerious Eats+9Kusina Secrets+9Lemons + Anchovies+9

Substitutions:

• If fresh shrimp heads and shells are unavailable, shrimp bouillon cubes can be used to create a flavorful stock.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
• In the absence of tinapa, smoked mackerel or trout can provide a similar smoky flavor.
• If calamansi is not accessible, lemon juice serves as an acceptable alternative.Lemons + Anchovies+7Kusina Secrets+7Epicurious+7filipinofoodrecipes.net+4Lemons + Anchovies+4Pancit.com+4Lutong Filipino

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp Stock:

• In a pot, combine shrimp heads and shells with water.
• Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes.
• Strain the stock and set aside.Pancit.com

2. Make the Shrimp Sauce:

• Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add annatto seeds and sauté until the oil turns red.
• Remove the seeds and discard them.
• In the same pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
• Add all-purpose flour and cook until it turns a light golden color.
• Gradually add the shrimp stock, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
• Add shrimp bouillon cubes, salt, and pepper.
• Simmer until the sauce thickens to a gravy-like consistency.pepper.phPancit.com+1Kusina Secrets+1

3. Cook the Noodles:

• Boil water in a separate pot.
• Add a pinch of salt.
• Place the rice noodles in the boiling water and cook according to package instructions.
• Drain and set aside.

4. Prepare the Toppings:

• Sauté diced pork belly in a pan until crispy.
• In the same pan, cook shrimp until pink and cooked through.
• Fry tofu cubes until golden brown.
• In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic until golden and crispy.Serious Eats+2pepper.ph+2Kusina Secrets+2

5. Assemble the Pancit Palabok:

• Place cooked noodles on a serving platter.
• Pour the shrimp sauce over the noodles, ensuring they are evenly coated.
• Arrange sautéed shrimp, crispy pork belly, fried tofu, and hard-boiled egg quarters on top.
• Sprinkle with crushed chicharon, flaked tinapa, fried garlic, and chopped green onions.
• Serve with calamansi or lemon wedges on the side.Kusina Secrets+3Pancit.com+3filipinofoodrecipes.net+3Kusina Secrets+1Pancit.com+1Iscleecam+8filipinofoodrecipes.net+8Pancit.com+8

Cooking Techniques & Science

The magic of Pancit Palabok lies in its sauce. The annatto seeds not only impart a vibrant color but also a subtle earthy flavor. Creating a roux with flour and oil before adding the shrimp stock ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce. The shrimp stock, rich in umami, forms the backbone of the sauce, while the addition of fish sauce introduces depth and complexity.Serious Eats+3Kusina Secrets+3Food.com+3Food.com+3Pancit.com+3Kusina Secrets+3

The toppings provide a delightful contrast in textures. The crispy pork belly and chicharon add crunch, the shrimp and tofu offer tenderness, and the eggs contribute creaminess. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the harmonious balance that defines this dish

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pancit Palabok made of?

Pancit Palabok is made with rice noodles topped with a savory orange sauce (typically made from shrimp or pork broth), crushed chicharrón (pork rinds), hard-boiled eggs, shrimp, smoked fish flakes (tinapa), and green onions.

Can I use a different type of noodles for Pancit Palabok?

Traditionally, bihon (thin rice noodles) are used, but you can substitute with thicker rice noodles or sotanghon (glass noodles), though texture and authenticity may vary.

Is Pancit Palabok spicy?

No, Pancit Palabok is not typically spicy. However, you can add a touch of chili flakes or serve with calamansi and spiced vinegar for extra kick.

How do you thicken Pancit Palabok sauce?

The sauce is thickened with a combination of cornstarch slurry and annatto (achuete) water. Be sure to simmer while stirring to get a smooth consistency.

Can I make Pancit Palabok ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and toppings ahead. Just cook the noodles fresh and assemble everything before serving to keep it from getting soggy.

Conclusion

Pancit Palabok is a flavorful and festive Filipino noodle dish that’s perfect for gatherings or everyday meals. With its rich, savory sauce and generous toppings, it offers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes.

Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings traditional Filipino comfort food to your table. Try this recipe, customize the toppings to your liking, and enjoy a true taste of home.