Pancit Bihon
Lunch • Philippines
About Pancit Bihon
Pancit Bihon is a classic Filipino noodle dish made from thin rice vermicelli stir-fried with a savory mix of pork, chicken, shrimp, a medley of vegetables like repolyo and carrots, and a seasoning base of toyo and garlic. It's a go-to ulam for everyday lunches or special handaan, and you’ll find it at nearly every carinderia—the generous mound of noodles often topped with kalamansi and a slice or two of hard-boiled egg. Bihon is quick to reheat, making it a popular choice for merienda, potlucks, and as pang-ulam sa baon. While beloved for its taste and how it stretches a meal, Pancit Bihon is relatively light compared to other Filipino pansit types—a 100g serving provides about 155 kcal, 5g of protein, and only 3g of fat. Still, pancit portions add up if loaded with toppings or eaten with rich sides; if you’re watching calories, pair with extra gulay and lean meat instead of chicharon or fatty pork. The balance of carbs and protein makes bihon filling, but it’s not especially high in fiber, so add more veggies if possible when cooking or ordering.
How to Make Pancit Bihon (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Pancit Bihon is a beloved noodle dish from the Philippines, often served during celebrations, family gatherings, and everyday meals. Its origins can be traced to Filipino-Chinese influences, but over generations, it has become a staple throughout the archipelago. Pancit Bihon features thin rice noodles stir-fried with a colorful medley of vegetables, lean protein, and savory sauces, resulting in a satisfying and harmonious dish. The taste of Pancit Bihon is light yet flavorful, with a balance of umami from soy sauce, sweetness from fresh vegetables, and aromatic notes from garlic and onions. This dish is a great lunch option for health-conscious eaters, as it incorporates lean meats, plenty of vegetables, and rice noodles that are naturally gluten-free. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy lifestyles, making it an ideal addition to your healthy international recipe repertoire. In the Philippines, Pancit Bihon is more than just food—it symbolizes longevity and prosperity, which is why it’s traditionally served at birthdays and festive occasions. Its versatility and simple ingredients make it accessible to cooks around the world, while its vibrant flavors bring a taste of Filipino culture to any table.
Ingredients(for 1 bowl (approximately 300g per serving))
- 100g Bihon (rice noodles) (thin rice sticks)
- 100g Chicken breast (sliced thinly)
- 1 small Carrot (julienned)
- 1 cup Cabbage (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Green beans (sliced)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 small Onion (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Fish sauce (optional for authentic flavor) - optional
- 1 cup Vegetable broth (for flavor and moisture)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 tablespoons Spring onions (chopped, for garnish) - optional
- 2 wedges Calamansi or lemon (for serving) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Soak the bihon (rice noodles) in warm water for 10 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
10 minutes
Don’t over-soak to prevent noodles from becoming mushy.
- 2
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
2 minutes
Use medium heat to avoid burning the garlic.
- 3
Add sliced chicken breast to the pan. Stir-fry until just cooked through.
4 minutes
Cut chicken into thin strips for faster cooking.
- 4
Add carrot, green beans, and cabbage. Stir-fry until vegetables are crisp-tender.
3 minutes
Don’t overcook vegetables to keep their nutrients intact.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Pancit Bihon recipe is a great choice for calorie-conscious eaters, as it uses lean protein and plenty of vegetables while minimizing oil and salt. Rice noodles are gluten-free, making it accessible for those with gluten sensitivities. The dish delivers a satisfying meal with balanced macros and is easy to adapt for specific dietary needs.
Pancit Bihon is a balanced meal featuring lean chicken for protein, rice noodles for carbohydrates, and a variety of vegetables for fiber, vitamins A, C, and K. The use of low-sodium soy sauce and vegetable broth reduces sodium content, making it suitable for heart health. The dish is naturally low in fat and provides antioxidants from vegetables, promoting overall wellness.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Prep all vegetables ahead for faster cooking.
- 💡Tip 2: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt intake.
- 💡Tip 3: Avoid over-soaking noodles to keep texture firm.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Pancit Bihon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 155.0 kcal |
| Protein | 5.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26.0 g |
| Total Fat | 3.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.0 g |
Cultural Notes
Pancit Bihon is a staple for gatherings, birthdays, and office salu-salo, known for being hearty and easy to share. In carinderias and turo-turo spots, it’s often an affordable lunch or merienda option.
