Pancit Canton is a popular Filipino dish made with wheat noodles, mixed vegetables, and meat cooked in a savory sauce. It is a staple at most Filipino gatherings as it is easy to prepare and delicious to eat. Although the traditional way of cooking this dish is through stove-top or oven methods, many people have been wondering whether they can cook Pancit Canton in the microwave.
Advantages and disadvantages of using a microwave for pancit canton
Before we dive into the specifics of microwaving Pancit Canton, let us explore its advantages and disadvantages compared to other cooking methods.
Pros
- The microwave method saves time as it cooks food faster than a traditional stove-top or oven method.
- It eliminates the need for excessive stirring and pre-heating.
- Microwaving retains nutrients better than other methods as it uses shorter cooking times which means less loss of vitamins and minerals.
Cons
- Microwaving may cause uneven cooking if not done correctly.
- The texture may be different from stove-top or oven-cooked Pancit Canton.
- Some microwaves may not be powerful enough to cook noodles adequately.
Tips for microwaving pancit canton
When using a microwave to cook your Pancit Canton, here are some tips that you must consider:
Preparation techniques
- Cut vegetables and meat to an appropriate size so that they cook evenly in the microwave.
- Ensure proper mixing and measurement of water, seasoning, and oil before putting them in the dish.
Cooking techniques
- Use a microwave-safe dish or container when microwaving food
- Follow recommended timing and temperature settings for best results
These preparation and cooking tips are crucial when using the microwave method as improper handling can lead to unsatisfactory results.
How to Microwave Pancit Canton Step-by-step instructions
Here is how you can successfully make Pancit Canton using your microwave:
1. Preparation
- Cut vegetables and chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Soak the noodles in warm water until they are flexible enough to be separated.
2. Mix Ingredients
- In a microwave-safe dish, mix the noodles, vegetables, meat, seasoning mix, oil and water.
3. Microwave Technique
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap leaving one side open to vent.
- For every cup of noodle, add two cups of water.
- Microwave on high for three minutes. Then remove from the microwave and stir.
- Put it back to the microwave and cook at an interval of two minutes while stirring after each interval.
- Once the noodles and vegetables are cooked all through, continue stirring to ensure that everything is well mixed.
Your Pancit Canton is now ready.
Alternatives to microwave for cooking pancit canton
Apart from a microwave method, other techniques can be applied when cooking Pancit Canton:
Stovetop method
This involves boiling your noodles in a pot until it is cooked then drained before mixing it with your pre-sauteed meat and vegetable.
Oven method
You simply mix your ingredients together as you would for stovetop or microwave methods; then pour your noodle mixture into an oven-safe dish. Bake it at 350-degrees Fahrenheit for about thirty minutes until fully cooked.
Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Microwaving Pancit Canton may seem like an easy way out; however, there are some important things that you need to consider before using this cooking method. Always use caution when microwaving food as improper handling could lead to unsatisfactory results.
While microwaving pancakes cannot entirely replace traditional stove-top methods, it can be useful if you want something different or need dinner in a hurry!
FAQs
- Is microwaving food bad for your health? Ans: No. It retains nutrients better than other methods as it uses shorter cooking times which means less loss of vitamins and minerals.
- Can I just add the seasoning mix to the dish without mixing it with water first? Ans: No, it is important to mix your seasoning mix with water first before adding it to your ingredients.
- How long should I microwave my pancit canton for? Ans: You should microwave on high for three minutes. Then remove from the microwave and stir. Put back into the microwave and cook at an interval of two minutes while stirring after each interval.
Glossary
- Pancit Canton – A popular Filipino dish made with wheat noodles, mixed vegetables, and meat cooked in a savory sauce.
- Traditional method – The stove-top or oven method of cooking food.
- Flavoring Mix – Flavoring mixes are pre-mixed combinations of spices and flavorings that give dishes their distinct taste; commonly used in Filipino cuisine.
- Microwaving – Cooking food using a microwave oven, an electromagnetic wave technology that heats up food rapidly without requiring excessive preheating-time or stirring.
Q&A
Q1: Can I cook Pancit Canton in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook Pancit Canton in the microwave. However, there are certain things to keep in mind when microwaving this Filipino dish.
Q2: How long does it take to cook Pancit Canton in the microwave?
It usually takes around 10 to 12 minutes to cook Pancit Canton in the microwave. However, cooking time may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave.
Q3: What is the best way to cook Pancit Canton in the microwave?
The best way to cook Pancit Canton in the microwave is to use a microwavable dish or bowl with a lid. Combine all ingredients, cover with a lid and microwave on high heat for 10-12 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Q4: Is microwaved Pancit Canton as good as traditionally cooked ones?
Microwaved Pancit Canton may not have the same level of crispiness and texture as those that are traditionally cooked on a stove top or wok. However, it can still be tasty and satisfying if done correctly and with proper seasoning.
