Pancit Bihon is known for its savory and slightly sweet flavor, and it’s a beloved and iconic Filipino noodle dish that varies in preparation from region to region and household to household.
This stir-fried noodle dish is celebrated for its simplicity and deliciousness. This flavorful dish is made with thin rice noodles, often referred to as bihon, stir-fried with a medley of colorful vegetables, meat, and sometimes seafood. The ingredients commonly include sliced chicken or pork, carrots, cabbage, green beans, and onions.
The dish is seasoned with a savory mixture of soy sauce, fish sauce, and sometimes a hint of citrus from calamansi or lemon juice. Pancit Bihon is known for its vibrant and appealing presentation, with the colorful vegetables providing a visual treat.
This Filipino noodle dish holds cultural significance, often served during celebrations and special occasions as it symbolizes long life and good fortune in Filipino tradition. Pancit Bihon showcases the diversity and creativity of Filipino cuisine, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors in every bite.
Pancit Bihon
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite sized pieces)
- 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 8 oz bihon noodles (or vermicelli or rice noodles)
- 1-1/2 cups mixed vegetables such as carrots, cabbage and green beans, scallions, (cut into bite sized pieces)
- salt and pepper to taste
- lemon wedges (optional)
SAUCE
- 2 cups low sodium chicken stock (or vegetable stock)
- 2 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or 1 tablespoon soy sauce mixed with 1/2 teaspoon sugar)
- 1 tsp sugar
Instructions
- In a wok or a large pan over medium heat, add oil and chicken and cook until tender. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Add garlic and onion and cook for 2 minutes. Add the cooked chicken and season with a little salt and pepper.
- Stir in the veggies and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until a little tender.
- Add all the ingredients for the pancit sauce and bring to a boil.
- Add rice noodles and stir until all the noodles are coated with the sauce. Keep on stirring and cooking until the noodles are tender (3-4 minutes).
- Add more stock (or water) if the dish is dry before the noodles are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper and more soy sauce if necessary. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.