When the kitchen fills with the warm, savory aroma of Traditional Pancit Bihon, it’s hard not to feel uplifted. This beloved Filipino dish has been a staple in my home, embodying both comfort and celebration with every bite. With its vibrant colors and an incredible blend of flavors, Pancit Bihon is perfect for those weeknight dinners when you crave something special but don’t want to spend hours cooking.
Quick enough for a simple meal yet festive enough for family gatherings, this noodle stir-fry can easily adapt to your preferences by swapping in chicken, shrimp, pork, or even tofu. The magic lies in the umami-rich soy sauce, paired with a refreshing squeeze of calamansi or lemon that brightens every mouthful. If you’re seeking a hearty yet versatile dish that will impress your friends and family, look no further. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to bring a touch of Filipino tradition to your table!
Why is Traditional Pancit Bihon a must-try?
Simplicity at its best: This quick and easy recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Flavorful fusion: The savory blend of soy sauce and citrusy calamansi brings an exciting twist to your usual noodle dish.
Customizable joy: With options for chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu, you can adjust this dish to fit any dietary preference.
Vibrant presentation: The colorful medley of vegetables not only enhances flavor but also creates a beautiful dish that looks as delightful as it tastes.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve this at your next gathering, and watch it disappear—everyone will love its comforting and hearty flavors!
For more delicious meal options, check out our guide on easy Filipino recipes.
Traditional Pancit Bihon Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delicious dish!
For the Noodles
- Rice Vermicelli Noodles – The star of the dish, these thin noodles absorb all the savory flavors beautifully. Look for “bihon” labels or any thin rice sticks as substitutes.
For the Protein
- Chicken Breast (or Pork/Shrimp, Tofu) – Provides a hearty base; slice thinly for quick cooking and adjust protein based on your preference.
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce – A key seasoning that infuses the dish with umami depth; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
- Fish Sauce – Use sparingly to elevate the savory flavor profile without overwhelming it.
For Stir-frying
- Cooking Oil – Essential for frying; choose vegetable or peanut oil for a clean taste.
- Garlic – Minced to create a fragrant base that will fill your kitchen with amazing aromas.
- Onion – Chopped to add natural sweetness and depth to the stir-fry.
For the Vegetables
- Carrot – Julienned for a pop of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Cabbage – Shredded to add freshness and a delightful crunch to your noodles.
- Green Beans – Sliced for an added texture contrast and nutritional boost.
For Moisture
- Chicken Broth (or Water) – Helps keep everything juicy during cooking; broth adds an extra flavor dimension.
For the Zesty Finish
- Calamansi (or Lemon) – A squeeze over the finished dish brightens it with a refreshing zest, enhancing the overall flavor.
How to Make Traditional Pancit Bihon
-
Soak noodles: Begin by soaking the rice vermicelli noodles in warm water for about 10 minutes. Once pliable, drain them and set aside to absorb the flavors later.
-
Sauté aromatics: Heat a generous splash of cooking oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, stirring until they’re fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
-
Cook protein: Introduce your sliced chicken (or pork/shrimp) to the pan. Stir-fry until the meat is browned and fully cooked, ensuring it’s tasty and tender.
-
Add vegetables: Toss in the julienned carrots, shredded cabbage, and sliced green beans. Stir-fry these vibrant veggies until they’re just tender yet still crisp for a delightful texture.
-
Combine ingredients: Gently add the soaked noodles, soy sauce, fish sauce, and broth to the mix. Toss everything together until evenly coated and the noodles are heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
-
Finish with zest: Turn off the heat, and squeeze a fresh calamansi or lemon juice over the dish right before serving for a bright, zesty kick.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Traditional Pancit Bihon
Fridge: Store any leftover Pancit Bihon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Pancit Bihon in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly in a pan.
Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or freezer, add a little chicken broth or water to prevent the noodles from drying out. Stir well to heat evenly.
Separation Tip: If you plan to freeze, consider storing the proteins separately from the noodles and vegetables to maintain their textures when reheated.
Make Ahead Options
These Traditional Pancit Bihon are a fantastic meal prep solution for busy home cooks! You can soak the rice vermicelli noodles and chop all your vegetables (carrots, cabbage, and green beans) up to 24 hours in advance. Store the noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent them from sticking together and keep the veggies fresh. If using protein, you can slice the chicken (or shrimp/pork/tofu) up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the aromatics, add the prepped ingredients, and toss everything together for a delicious, stress-free meal that will taste just as fresh and vibrant!
What to Serve with Traditional Pancit Bihon?
Dive into a delightful feast with comforting side dishes and drinks that beautifully complement this savory noodle dish.
-
Crispy Spring Rolls: These golden, crunchy bites filled with veggies add a delicious textural contrast to the softness of the noodles.
-
Garlic Fried Rice: The aromatic flavors of garlic fried rice pair perfectly, providing a hearty base that enhances the overall meal.
-
Lumpia Shanghai: These Filipino-style meat-filled egg rolls are a festive addition that guests will love, bringing extra flair to your table.
-
Asian Salad: A refreshing salad with a sesame vinaigrette complements the savory notes of the Pancit Bihon, balancing out the dish.
-
Sweet and Sour Sauce: Serving this tangy sauce on the side allows for a delightful dip, enhancing the flavors with a delightful twist.
-
Tropical Fruit Salad: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a light tropical fruit salad that offers a refreshing and light dessert option.
Experience the joy of serving these delightful dishes alongside your Traditional Pancit Bihon for an unforgettable dining experience!
Expert Tips for Traditional Pancit Bihon
-
Soak with care: Avoid over-soaking the rice vermicelli noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy. A quick 10-minute soak is sufficient.
-
Cook in batches: If your pan is overcrowded, it can lead to uneven cooking. Stir-fry ingredients in smaller batches for the best results.
-
Vegetable crunch: To maintain the crispness of your vegetables, be cautious not to overcook them—just a few minutes should do the trick.
-
Personal seasoning: Adjust soy and fish sauce based on your taste preferences. Start with less and add more gradually to achieve the perfect balance.
-
Garnish for flair: Consider adding fresh herbs or sliced green onions on top before serving to elevate the presentation of your Traditional Pancit Bihon.
Traditional Pancit Bihon Variations
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these inspiring twists on the classic dish!
-
Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the protein for tofu to create a hearty vegetarian version that’s equally satisfying.
-
Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for a colorful, nutrient-packed upgrade to your stir-fry.
-
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili for an exciting heat that brings warmth to every bite.
-
Umami Boost: Incorporate mushrooms like shiitake or cremini for a deeper flavor that enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.
-
Noodle Variations: Experiment with different types of noodles, such as egg noodles or soba, to alter the texture while maintaining the delicious essence.
-
Citrus Twist: Try adding a splash of lime juice instead of calamansi for a different but delightful citrusy zing that brightens the dish.
-
Nutty Flavor: Toasted sesame oil drizzled at the end adds a rich, nutty finish, elevating the overall taste experience remarkably.
-
Seafood Fusion: For a coastal twist, combine shrimp and squid for a seafood medley that’s bursting with flavor and charm.
Feel free to mix and match any of these ideas to create your perfect bowl of pancake magic!
Traditional Pancit Bihon Recipe FAQs
What type of rice vermicelli noodles should I use?
Absolutely! Look for “bihon” on the label, which are thin rice vermicelli noodles designed for this dish. If you can’t find that, any thin rice sticks will work as a suitable substitute. Just remember, the thinner the noodle, the better they absorb flavors while cooking!
Advertisement
How should I store leftover Pancit Bihon?
To keep your delicious meal fresh, store any leftover Pancit Bihon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture—this will keep the noodles from drying out.
Can I freeze Pancit Bihon?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, freeze your Pancit Bihon in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer it to the fridge the night before. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it thoroughly in a pan. I recommend adding a little chicken broth or water while reheating to ensure everything stays moist and flavorful.
What if my noodles come out mushy?
No worries! If you accidentally over-soak your rice vermicelli noodles, they may turn mushy. For best results, soak them in warm water for just about 10 minutes, or until pliable, not longer. If you find yourself in this situation, try using them in soup instead, where the texture won’t be as noticeable!
Is Pancit Bihon suitable for those with allergies?
Great question! This dish can be made with various proteins like shrimp, chicken, pork, or tofu, allowing for customization based on dietary needs. However, be cautious with soy sauce and fish sauce, as they contain gluten and seafood respectively. For gluten-free options, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and skip the fish sauce, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this flavorful dish.
Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Very! Feel free to mix in more veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or even mushrooms to enhance the nutritional value and visual appeal. The more, the merrier, so give it a go and make your Pancit Bihon truly your own!
Delicious Traditional Pancit Bihon: Quick Comfort Food Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak noodles in warm water for about 10 minutes, then drain.
- Heat cooking oil in a wok over medium-high heat, add garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add sliced chicken to the pan and stir-fry until browned and cooked.
- Mix in carrots, cabbage, and green beans, stir-frying until tender but crisp.
- Add noodles, soy sauce, fish sauce, and chicken broth, tossing until heated through.
- Finish with calamansi or lemon juice before serving.