Traditional Pancit Bihon

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Pancit Bihon is a beloved Filipino noodle dish known for its savory flavor, vibrant colors, and comforting aroma. It’s often served during celebrations and family gatherings, symbolizing long life and good health. The combination of tender rice noodles, colorful vegetables, and juicy meats creates a meal that’s both hearty and nourishing.

This dish is quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet festive enough for holidays. Each bite is packed with umami-rich soy sauce, fresh crunch from carrots and cabbage, and a hint of citrus from calamansi or lemon. Whether you’re revisiting childhood memories or trying it for the first time, Pancit Bihon is sure to win you over.

Why You’ll Love This Traditional Pancit Bihon

You’ll love how easy it is to prepare while still feeling special enough for guests. The dish is highly versatile, letting you swap in chicken, pork, shrimp, or even tofu. The delicate rice noodles soak up the savory sauce beautifully, and the fresh vegetables make it feel light yet satisfying. It’s a perfect one-pan meal for any occasion.

What Kind of Rice Noodles Should I Use?

For traditional Pancit Bihon, use thin rice vermicelli noodles, often labeled “bihon” in Asian markets. They’re delicate but hold up well to stir-frying. Soak them briefly in warm water to soften before cooking, as boiling can make them mushy. If you can’t find bihon specifically, look for any thin rice sticks as an alternative.

Ingredients for the Traditional Pancit Bihon

Rice vermicelli noodles are the heart of this dish, providing a delicate yet satisfying base that absorbs all the delicious flavors. Chicken, pork, or shrimp adds richness and protein, making it a complete meal. Soy sauce and fish sauce bring that unmistakable umami depth, while garlic and onion build a fragrant foundation. Carrots, cabbage, and green beans add freshness, crunch, and vibrant color, making every bite as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Finally, calamansi or lemon brightens everything with a hint of citrus.

How To Make the Traditional Pancit Bihon

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Soak the rice vermicelli noodles in warm water for about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside. This ensures they’re soft enough to cook through but still hold their shape.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat oil in a large wok or skillet. Sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and translucent, creating a flavorful base.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

Add your choice of sliced chicken, pork, or shrimp and cook until browned and fully cooked through. This infuses the oil with rich flavor.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Toss in thinly sliced carrots, shredded cabbage, and cut green beans. Stir-fry until just tender but still crisp to maintain their freshness and crunch.

Step 5: Combine and Season

Add the soaked noodles to the pan, then pour in soy sauce, fish sauce, and a splash of water or broth. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat the noodles and distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Finish with Citrus

Once the noodles have absorbed the liquid and are heated through, turn off the heat. Squeeze calamansi or lemon juice over the dish just before serving for a bright, tangy finish.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

One common mistake when making Pancit Bihon is over-soaking or boiling the noodles, which can make them mushy. Be sure to soak them just until pliable. Another pitfall is overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking—if necessary, cook in batches. Lastly, avoid overcooking the vegetables, as you want them to remain crisp and colorful for the best texture and presentation.

Serving and Storing This Traditional Pancit Bihon

This recipe feeds about 6 people, making it perfect for family meals or a small gathering. Serve it hot straight from the wok, garnished with more calamansi or lemon wedges on the side. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm it in a skillet to bring back its moisture and flavor.

What to Serve With Pancit Bihon?

Lumpia (Filipino Spring Rolls)

These crispy rolls complement the soft noodles perfectly, adding a crunchy texture.

Filipino BBQ Skewers

Sweet and smoky skewers pair wonderfully with the savory noodles.

Garlic Fried Rice

For heartier appetites, serve Pancit Bihon alongside garlicky rice for a true Filipino feast.

Atchara (Pickled Papaya)

This tangy-sweet side dish cuts through the richness of the noodles with its refreshing bite.

Puto (Steamed Rice Cakes)

These mildly sweet rice cakes are a traditional pairing that balances out the savory flavors.

Mango Salad

Bright, juicy mango salad with a touch of chili and lime adds a tropical flair.

Fried or Grilled Bangus (Milkfish)

The rich, flaky fish makes a deliciously traditional addition to the meal.

Want More Noodle Ideas?

If you love this Traditional Pancit Bihon, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Marry Me Chicken Pasta for a creamy, flavor-packed twist.
• One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles if you’re looking for a quick and easy comfort food.
• Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach for a seafood lover’s dream.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts with velvety sauce and tender meat.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with chicken or shrimp? Did you add your own twist?

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Conclusion

Traditional Pancit Bihon is more than just a noodle dish — it’s a celebration of Filipino culture and flavor. With its vibrant vegetables, tender meats, and bright citrus finish, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for a weeknight and special enough for a party. Try it soon and bring a taste of the Philippines to your table!

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