Filipino Pancit Bihon with Shrimp and Vegetables Recipe

A delicious traditional Filipino stir-fried noodle dish featuring shrimp and a variety of vegetables.

Pancit Bihon is a beloved Filipino delicacy known for its savory flavor, vibrant presentation, and historical significance. This dish combines thin rice noodles with an array of colorful vegetables and succulent shrimp, making it both a feast for the eyes and the palate.

The word 'pancit' comes from the Hokkien term 'pian i sit,' which means 'something conveniently cooked fast.' Brought to the Philippines by Chinese immigrants, this dish has evolved and integrated unique local flavors, becoming a staple in many Filipino households, especially during celebratory occasions.

Ingredients

• 250g bihon (thin rice noodles)
• 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 small bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 1/2 small cabbage, shredded
• 100g snow peas, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• Freshly chopped parsley for garnish

Nutrition

Calories: ~450 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare the noodles: Soak the bihon noodles in warm water for about 10-15 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the shrimp: In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the onions until translucent, about 2 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Cook vegetables: Add the carrots, bell peppers, cabbage, and snow peas to the pan. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
5. Combine ingredients: Add the softened bihon noodles to the pan along with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken broth. Gently toss to combine everything thoroughly.
6. Season and add shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Season with ground black pepper and salt to taste. Continue to stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
7. Serve: Transfer the Pancit Bihon to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Congratulations! You've just made a delicious and authentic Filipino Pancit Bihon with Shrimp and Vegetables. This dish is not only tasty but also highly nutritious, providing a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The combination of tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and flavorful noodles makes it a meal that everyone will enjoy.

Pancit Bihon is incredibly versatile. Feel free to modify this recipe by adding other proteins like chicken or pork, or adjusting the vegetable mix to include your favorites. It’s a fantastic way to use up whatever you have in your fridge. Plus, it's a hit at parties, family gatherings, or any time you want to wow your guests with something special.

Cooking tip: When preparing this dish, it's essential to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a fast cooking method, and having everything organized will ensure a smooth process.

Enjoy your homemade Pancit Bihon, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Happy cooking!