The Ultimate Canton Special Recipe: Savory Noodles for Celebrations

It is a distinct pleasure to engage in the culinary preparation of dishes that evoke the essence of holidays or festive occasions. Canton Special Noodles, much like other variations of pancit, is a Filipino stir-fried noodle dish characterized by its use of high-quality Canton noodles. Although there exists a broad spectrum of Chinese noodle dishes across China and other Asian nations, the unique & iconic Filipino pancit, Filipino-style Canton Special rendition of Cantonese Special can specifically be experienced at Filipino establishments, such as Amber Golden Plate Restaurants.

This dish exemplifies how Filipinos have adapted culinary elements to create their own interpretations. This flavorful noodle dish transports one to the joyous atmosphere of holidays and festive celebrations, featuring an array of chopped crisp vegetables, succulent meats, and umami-rich broth. In this article, readers will discover and appreciate the comprehensive procedure for preparing this iconic Filipino noodle dish at home.

Serving options, calories, and price on the Amber menu:

Canton Special Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Daily Value is based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Values may vary depending on ingredients and preparation method.

History of Canton Special in Filipino Cuisine

Canton Special is a product of culinary cross-pollination between Chinese immigrants and Filipino tradition, dating back to the Spanish colonial era. The term “pancit”, derived from the Hokkien phrase “pian i sit” (便宜食), meaning “convenient food,” was adapted locally to suit Filipino ingredients and preferences. Over time, egg noodles, similar to Cantonese-style lo mein, were combined with Filipino favorites like pork belly, liver, shrimp, and vegetables, resulting in today’s Canton Special.

Amber Golden Plate Restaurant helped popularize this dish by creating a signature, party-size version that fits the Filipino tradition of communal dining. It is now a staple during birthdays, fiestas, and office celebrations across Metro Manila and beyond.

Is Amber Canton Special Healthy?

Amber Canton Special is packed with flavor and nutrition, but whether it’s “healthy” depends on your dietary goals.

👍 Ideal For:

• High-protein diets (contain pork, shrimp, and chicken)
• Muscle-building meal plans (rich in calories and protein)
• Family-style celebrations (large servings meant for sharing)

⚠️ May Not Be Ideal For:

• Low-sodium diets (sodium content is 576mg per 100g)
• Low-fat diets (contain pork belly and liver)
• Cholesterol-conscious eaters (84.9 mg per 100g)

💡 Tip: Try the “Canton Special Under 100 Calories” version using shirataki noodles and lean proteins for a lighter, guilt-free treat.

How to cook Authentic Canton Special Noodles?

Creating a Filipino pancit canton special is an art, and with a few essential tips, you can master it. This delightful recipe features chicken, pork belly, and liver, complemented by the crunch of fresh carrots and green beans. Instead of chicken broth, embrace the richness of pork stock for soaking, ensuring tenderness that captivates the palate. 

Remember, overcooking can diminish its freshness, so be mindful of your heating duration and stock absorption. A sprinkle of salt and black pepper allows you to personalize the flavor to your liking. Always use fresh vegetables, both for cooking and garnishing, to elevate the dish to new heights. In Amber Golden Plate Restaurant, this stir-fried noodle dish reflects the seamless fusion of Chinese culinary heritage and Filipino festive traditions

Cuisine: Filipino

Calories: 4353 kcal

Fat: 268 g

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 4353 Kcal

Carbohydrates: 332 g

Protein: 164 g

Fat: 268 g

Saturated Fat: 79 g

Amber Canton Special Ingredients List

• Bihon noodles: 250 
• Chicken breast: 200 grams
• Pork: 150 grams
• Shrimp: 150 grams
• Garlic: One head
• Red onion: 1 medium 
• White onion: 1 medium 
• Fish sauce: 3 tbsp
• Chicken powder: Half a tbsp
• Ground black pepper: 1/2 tbsp
• Chicken or pork broth: 3 cups
• Cooking oil: 4 tbsp 
• Cabbage, thinly sliced: 200 grams

Amber Traditional Canton Special Recipe (Step-by-Step)

• Mix pork liver with milk in a bowl and marinate for 60 minutes.
• Remove the milk, wash the pork with water, and place it aside.
• To prepare a flavorful dish, begin by boiling water in a pot. Add the pork along with one teaspoon of salt, then cover the pot and continue boiling until the pork is tender. 
• Once cooked, remove the pork from the pot and slice it thinly. Set the pork aside and reserve the pork stock. 
• Next, take the shrimp, removing both the head and the shells. Combine the shrimp heads and shells with the reserved pork stock and continue to boil this mixture for 120 seconds. 
• After boiling, strain the liquid through a sieve to remove the solid components. Allow the stock to cool before mixing it with cornstarch, stirring well, and then setting it aside.
• In a separate large pot, heat some oil and add minced garlic and diced onion. Cook this mixture until the onion becomes soft, then incorporate the pork belly, kikam, and sausage, stirring to combine the flavors.
• To prepare this dish, begin by sautéing for two minutes. 
• Next, incorporate the pork liver into the skillet and cook for one and a half minutes. After that, add oyster sauce and stir the mixture. 
• Proceed by introducing the vegetables, starting with cabbage, followed by long green beans, carrots, and bell peppers. Toss the vegetables to combine them evenly.
• Then, add shrimp, along with soy sauce and sesame oil. Pour in the stock made from pork and shrimp. 
• After the mixture starts to boil, add a Knorr shrimp cube and continue cooking for an additional three minutes.
• Keep tossing and cooking until all ingredients are well mixed. 
• Finally, season the dish with salt and ground black pepper to your taste preferences.

Amber Canton Special Under 100 Calories

A lighter take on Canton Special can be achieved by replacing traditional egg canton noodles with shirataki or zucchini noodles, and swapping pork belly or liver for lean boiled chicken breast or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of oil for stir-frying, and add fiber-rich vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and snap peas to enhance volume without calories. This modified Filipino noodle dish keeps its savory taste while fitting into low-calorie, low-carb, or weight-loss meal plans, delivering under 100 calories per serving.

Amber Canton Special Calories Per 100g

Traditional Canton Special, with its blend of egg noodles, shrimp, pork, and chicken liver, provides around 218 calories per 100g. This includes approximately 12.3g fat, 15.6g carbs, and 9.2g protein, making it a moderately dense dish ideal for those tracking macros. Served in portions at places like Amber Golden Plate Restaurant, it remains a festive favorite, especially for eaters following IIFYM, calorie-counting, or balanced macro diets.

Amber Pancit Comparison Table: Canton Special vs. Other Filipino Noodles

Amber Canton Special Allergen Info

Canton Special may contain several common allergens, which are important to be aware of if you have food sensitivities. Here’s a breakdown:

Gluten: Canton noodles, primarily made from wheat flour, may contain gluten. Additionally, soy sauce often includes gluten as well.

Soy: Soy sauce and various seasonings used in Canton Special typically contain soy.

Eggs: As a main ingredient, Canton noodles usually include eggs.

Shellfish: Certain recipes may feature shellfish, such as shrimp or squid, or utilize seafood-based broth.

Dairy: Some variations of the dish might incorporate butter or cheese.

Garlic & Onion: These ingredients are commonly used for flavor, but they can trigger sensitivities in some individuals.

For those seeking allergy-friendly options, consider using gluten-free noodles, tamari as a soy sauce substitute, egg-free alternatives, and versions that exclude seafood. It’s always a good practice to check ingredient labels for any specific allergens.

Amber Canton Special Calories/Nutritional Info

FAQ’s

Conclusion

In summary, Canton Special Noodles are more than just a hearty main course, they symbolize Filipino values of celebration, togetherness, and cultural fusion. Whether served at iconic eateries like Amber Restaurant or prepared lovingly at home, this pancit variant offers a harmonious blend of umami-rich sauces, textured proteins, and nutrient-packed vegetables, all tossed in wheat-based canton noodles. It’s a staple in Filipino cuisine, revered for its role in special occasions and everyday gatherings alike. With this easy-to-follow recipe, home cooks can recreate the magic of Filipino party food with confidence. Embrace the tradition, enjoy the flavor, and celebrate with every forkful of this classic Filipino-Chinese stir-fry.