Authentic Pancit Bihon: A Classic Filipino Noodle Recipe You’ll Love

Sharing is caring!

Introduction

Pancit Bihon is a beloved Filipino noodle dish that brings together tender rice noodles, savory meat, and crisp vegetables in a flavorful stir-fry. This dish is a staple at Filipino gatherings, symbolizing longevity and good fortune. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal or preparing for a special celebration, this authentic Pancit Bihon recipe is a must-try.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making Pancit Bihon, from essential ingredients to expert cooking tips. Get ready to enjoy a traditional Filipino noodle dish that’s simple yet bursting with flavor!

What is Pancit Bihon?

Pancit Bihon is a classic Filipino stir-fried noodle dish made with bihon (thin rice noodles), meat (chicken, pork, or shrimp), and an assortment of vegetables. It is seasoned with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sometimes fish sauce for an umami-rich flavor. This dish is commonly served at birthdays, holidays, and festive gatherings in the Philippines.

One of the reasons why Pancit Bihon is so popular is its quick and easy preparation. In just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious, restaurant-quality noodle dish in the comfort of your home.

---

Essential Ingredients

To achieve the perfect Pancit Bihon, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Bihon noodles – Thin rice noodles that absorb flavors beautifully
• Chicken or pork – Adds protein and richness
• Shrimp (optional) – Enhances the dish with a seafood twist
• Garlic and onion – Aromatics that deepen the flavor
• Soy sauce and oyster sauce – For umami and a rich savory taste
• Fish sauce (optional) – Adds an authentic Filipino touch
• Carrots, cabbage, and bell peppers – Fresh vegetables for crunch and color
• Chicken broth or water – To soften the noodles and add flavor
• Salt and pepper – For seasoning
• Lemon or calamansi – Adds a bright, citrusy contrast

Alternative Ingredients

If you want to customize your Pancit Bihon, here are some ingredient alternatives:

• Protein options: Instead of chicken or pork, you can use tofu, beef, or a mix of seafood.
• Vegetable variations: Try adding green beans, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Noodle swap: Use sotanghon (glass noodles) if you prefer a different texture.
• Sauce substitutes: Hoisin sauce or tamari can replace oyster sauce for a slightly different flavor.

---

Prep & Cook Time, Servings, and Yield

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings	Yield
15 minutes	20 minutes	35 minutes	4-6 people	1 large platter

---

Key Features of Pancit Bihon

• ✅ Quick and easy – Ready in under 40 minutes
• ✅ Authentic Filipino flavor – Traditional seasonings and fresh ingredients
• ✅ Versatile – Can be made with chicken, pork, shrimp, or vegetarian-friendly options
• ✅ Perfect for celebrations – A must-have dish for Filipino gatherings
• ✅ Healthy and delicious – Packed with protein and fresh vegetables

---

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories	Protein	Carbohydrates	Fat	Fiber	Sodium
320 kcal	18g	45g	7g	4g	820mg

---

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Authentic Pancit Bihon

Making Pancit Bihon at home is easy, but the right technique ensures a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Follow this detailed step-by-step guide for the best results.

---

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, have all your ingredients ready:
✔ Soak the bihon noodles – Place them in a large bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes or until they become soft and pliable. Avoid over-soaking, as this can make them mushy later. Drain the water and set the noodles aside.
✔ Slice the meat and vegetables – Cut the chicken, pork, or shrimp into thin strips for quick cooking. Slice the vegetables (carrots, cabbage, and bell peppers) into julienne or thin strips to ensure even cooking.
✔ Prepare the aromatics – Mince the garlic and chop the onion finely for a strong, flavorful base.

---

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large wok or deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped onions, stirring constantly until they turn fragrant and slightly golden.
3. This step is crucial because the garlic and onion release their natural oils, infusing the entire dish with deep flavor.

---

Step 3: Cook the Meat

1. Add the sliced chicken or pork to the wok. Stir-fry until it turns lightly browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
2. If using shrimp, add them last (after the chicken or pork is cooked) and cook for 1-2 minutes until they turn pink.
3. Season with a little salt and pepper to enhance the meat’s flavor.
4. If you want extra umami, add a teaspoon of fish sauce at this stage.

---

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

1. Toss in the sliced carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage, stirring for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp.
2. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and optional fish sauce, stirring everything well to coat the meat and vegetables in the sauce.
3. For a richer taste, add a splash of chicken broth or water, which will also help blend the flavors.

---

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

1. Push the meat and vegetables to one side of the wok, making space for the noodles.
2. Add the drained bihon noodles to the pan.
3. Pour in about 1 ½ cups of chicken broth or water, allowing the noodles to absorb the liquid.
4. Using tongs or a spatula, gently toss the noodles into the sauce until they are evenly coated. Keep stirring to prevent sticking.
5. Cook until the noodles are soft and have absorbed most of the liquid. If needed, add a little more broth to keep the noodles from drying out.
6. Continue tossing for another 2-3 minutes until everything is evenly mixed and the noodles are tender.

Step 6: Final Adjustments and Serving

1. Taste the Pancit Bihon and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce, salt, or pepper if needed.
2. Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped green onions and a few lemon or calamansi wedges.
3. Serve immediately while hot, squeezing fresh citrus over the top for extra brightness.

---

Bonus Tip: How to Achieve the Best Pancit Bihon Texture

✅ Don’t over-soak the noodles – They should be soft but firm before cooking.
✅ Toss continuously while cooking – This prevents clumping and ensures even seasoning.
✅ Don’t overcook the vegetables – They should remain slightly crisp for the best texture contrast.
✅ Use a wok or a large pan – More surface area helps distribute heat evenly.
✅ Add broth in small amounts – Too much liquid at once can make the noodles soggy.

---

Pro Tips for a Perfect Pancit Bihon

Making Pancit Bihon might seem simple, but a few expert tricks can take your dish from good to great. Follow these tips to achieve the best texture, flavor, and presentation.

1. Don’t Over-Soak the Noodles

Bihon noodles are delicate and can turn mushy if over-soaked. Instead of soaking them for too long, use warm water and let them sit for 10 minutes, just until they are soft but still firm. Drain them well before cooking.

2. Use a Large Wok or Pan

Cooking Pancit Bihon in a wide, deep wok or skillet ensures even heat distribution and prevents overcrowding. This helps the noodles absorb flavors better and reduces clumping.

3. Stir-Fry the Meat and Vegetables First

Cooking the protein and vegetables separately before adding the noodles ensures that everything is evenly cooked. Overcooked vegetables lose their crunch, so stir-fry them quickly over high heat to keep them fresh and vibrant.

4. Add Broth Gradually

Instead of pouring all the broth at once, add it in small amounts while tossing the noodles. This prevents them from becoming too soggy and ensures they absorb just the right amount of flavor.

5. Use Fresh Citrus for the Best Flavor

Squeeze fresh calamansi or lemon over the dish just before serving. This adds a light, zesty contrast that enhances the rich, savory flavors.

By following these tips, you’ll get perfectly balanced, flavorful, and visually appealing Pancit Bihon every time!

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with simple ingredients.
• Bursting with authentic Filipino flavors.
• Perfect for meal prep or special occasions.
• Customizable with your favorite proteins and vegetables.
• A one-pan dish that’s ready in under 40 minutes!

---

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

Unlike other noodle dishes, Pancit Bihon is known for its light yet flavorful taste. It doesn’t rely on heavy sauces but instead absorbs flavors from aromatics, soy sauce, and broth. The balance of tender noodles, crispy vegetables, and juicy meat makes this dish stand out in Filipino cuisine.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Pancit Bihon without meat?
Yes! You can use tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water or broth.

3. Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute bihon with sotanghon (glass noodles) or egg noodles for a different texture.

4. Is Pancit Bihon gluten-free?
Rice noodles are gluten-free, but check your soy sauce and oyster sauce labels for gluten-free options.

5. Why is my Pancit Bihon soggy?
Over-soaking the noodles or adding too much liquid can make them mushy. Be sure to add broth gradually and stir well.

---

You’ll Also Love

If you enjoyed this recipe, try these other Filipino classics:

• Pancit Canton – Stir-fried egg noodles with a rich sauce
• Lumpiang Shanghai – Crispy Filipino spring rolls
• Chicken Adobo – A savory-sweet braised chicken dish

---

Conclusion

Pancit Bihon is a timeless Filipino noodle dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with incredible flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick meal or a special gathering, this recipe guarantees a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of the Philippines at home!

Don’t forget to share your creations with #BeesRecipes on Instagram. We can’t wait to see your delicious take on this Filipino classic!