Name: Filipino Pansit Bihon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486313H44M6S
Total time: PT-486313H44M6S
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: 8 oz (about 225 g) bihon (rice vermicelli noodles); 2 tbsp neutral oil (peanut, vegetable, or canola); 1 lb (450 g) protein (chicken breast, shrimp, tofu); 4–6 cloves garlic, minced; ½ large onion, sliced or diced; 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, cabbage, green beans, celery, snap peas); 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp dark soy sauce; 1 tsp sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; Garnishes: scallions, lemon or calamansi wedges

A delightful stir-fried rice vermicelli dish that captures the heart of Filipino cuisine with its harmony of flavors, textures, and vibrant ingredients.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how quick and easy this dish comes together, yet it delivers so much comfort and nostalgia. The tender rice noodles soak up the savory sauce, while the crisp vegetables and juicy protein perfectly balance each bite. I often make it for gatherings because it’s flavorful, colorful, and reminds me of home.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
– 8 oz (about 225 g) bihon (rice vermicelli noodles)
– 2 tbsp neutral oil (peanut, vegetable, or canola)
– 1 lb (450 g) protein (chicken breast, shrimp, tofu – whatever I have!)
– 4–6 cloves garlic, minced
– ½ large onion, sliced or diced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, cabbage, green beans, celery, snap peas)
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp soy sauce + 2 tbsp dark soy sauce (or substitute fish sauce/oyster sauce)
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garnishes: scallions, lemon or calamansi wedges

directions

Soak the bihon noodles in warm water or gently cook them in broth until pliable; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Cook your chosen protein until browned and cooked through, seasoning with salt and pepper. Transfer to a bowl.
In the same pan, sauté garlic and onions until fragrant.
Add vegetables and cook until tender-crisp.
Pour in broth, soy sauces, and sugar; stir until heated and combined.
Return protein to the pan, then add noodles. Toss gently, ensuring the sauce evenly coats everything. If needed, cover and let steam until noodles finish absorbing the liquid.
Adjust seasoning, garnish with scallions, and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.

Prep time: ~15 minutes
Cook time: ~20–25 minutes
Total time: ~35–40 minutes

Variations

– Surf-and-turf: add shrimp and Chinese sausage alongside chicken or tofu.
– Vegetarian/vegan: omit meat, use tofu, and substitute vegetable broth with tamari and vegan oyster sauce.
– Gluten-free: use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
– Extra crunch: stir in bean sprouts or snow peas right before serving.
– Egg topping: garnish with sliced hard‑boiled eggs for richness.

storage/reheating

I let leftovers cool to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container. They stay good in the fridge for about 3–5 days. To reheat, I warm them gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, or microwave them covered. If freezing, portion into freezer-safe containers, thaw overnight, then reheat as above.

FAQs

How do I prevent noodles from sticking together?

I soak my bihon in warm water or broth before cooking. When stir-frying, I make sure to toss them quickly and serve while still slightly sauced—not completely dry.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely. I prep and chop all ingredients early. Even the noodles can be pre-soaked. I combine everything just before serving to keep textures and flavors fresh.

What protein works best?

I love using chicken, shrimp, or tofu. A mix of chicken and shrimp makes it hearty, while shrimp adds a lighter, briny taste. Tofu keeps it vegan-friendly.

How spicy is this dish?

By default it’s mild. If I want heat, I sprinkle chopped chilies or chili flakes on top just before serving.

Can I use other noodles instead of bihon?

Yes! Substitutes like soba, udon, or egg noodles work fine. Just adjust cooking time and liquid absorption accordingly.

Conclusion

Filipino Pansit Bihon is my go-to dish when I want something fast, flavorful, and festive. It’s a true crowd-pleaser—versatile, colorful, and rooted in tradition. Whether feeding family, meal prepping, or celebrating, this noodle dish always brings warmth and joy to the table.