There’s a certain comfort that comes with a big, steaming plate of Bihun Goreng, a dish that has not only transformed weeknight dinners in my home but also swept me off my feet with its vibrant flavors. Imagine the aroma of marinated shrimp sizzling alongside fragrant garlic and shallots, setting the stage for a quick and satisfying meal. On a particularly busy evening, I discovered how wonderfully this versatile recipe could come together in just 30 minutes, bringing a bit of culinary excitement back to our table.
Filled with the delightful crunch of bean sprouts and the soft chewiness of rice vermicelli, this dish promises a symphony of textures that will impress even the most discerning palate. You can easily swap shrimp for chicken or stick to a vegetarian version, allowing you to tailor it for any crowd. So, if you’re tired of takeout and longing for something homemade that tastes as good as it looks, dive into this simple yet delicious Bihun Goreng recipe—trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Why is Bihun Goreng a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: Whip up this dish in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight family meals.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite features vibrant flavors from shrimp, soy sauce, and spices that delight the taste buds.
Customizable: Swap in chicken or tofu for a versatile option that suits any dietary preference.
Textural Delight: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables alongside the soft, chewy rice vermicelli.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it an ideal centerpiece for gatherings!
For more ideas on how to create homemade dishes your loved ones will adore, check out our full range of noodle recipes.
Bihun Goreng Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this delicious Bihun Goreng from scratch!
For the Noodles
• 8.8 oz rice vermicelli – Essential for that perfect chewy texture in your dish.
For the Protein
• ½ lb jumbo shrimp – Fresh and tender, but feel free to substitute with skinless, boneless chicken thighs for a different flavor.
For the Eggs
• 2 large eggs – Beaten and fluffy, they add richness and a delightful bite to the dish.
For the Vegetables
• 2 cups mung bean sprouts – These add a nice crunch; soybean sprouts work too!
• 1.5 cups yu choy or bok choy – Their crispness complements the soft noodles beautifully.
• 1 small shallot – Finely diced to lend a sweet, aromatic flavor.
• 3 garlic cloves – Minced for that must-have garlicky goodness!
For the Marinade and Cooking
• 2 tablespoon vegetable oil – A neutral oil is best to highlight the flavors without overpowering them.
• ½ tablespoon cornstarch – This helps create a nice coating for your protein.
• 1 teaspoon regular soy sauce – Adds depth and savory notes to the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda – A secret ingredient to enhance the flavor of your shrimp.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – More oil for cooking, ensuring everything doesn’t stick!
For the Sauces
• 2 tablespoon sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) – This brings an irresistible sweetness; dark soy sauce with sugar can be substituted.
• 1 tablespoon regular soy sauce – For an extra umami kick.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – Provides a rich, savory taste; optional for a vegetarian version.
• ½ tablespoon white granulated sugar – Balances out the savory flavors.
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper – For a subtle hint of heat.
• ¼ cup water – Helps to integrate all the flavors smoothly.
Now, gather your ingredients and get ready to dive into the art of making this delightful Bihun Goreng!
How to Make Bihun Goreng
-
Marinate: In a medium bowl, marinate the shrimp with soy sauce, baking soda, and cornstarch for 15 minutes. This helps enhance the shrimp’s flavor and tenderness while you prep the other ingredients.
-
Soak Noodles: In a large bowl, soak the dry rice vermicelli in boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes until they are limp and slightly softened. Strain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking; set aside.
-
Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, combine all the noodle sauce ingredients, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves. This ensures that your dish gets a balanced and flavorful coating later on.
-
Cook Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated shrimp until they are pink and slightly curled, about 30 to 90 seconds. Remove them from the pan, leaving the oil behind.
-
Sauté Aromatics: Add shallots and garlic to the same pan, sautéing for about 10 seconds until fragrant. Push them to the side to create space for the next steps.
-
Scramble Eggs: Pour in another tablespoon of oil in the empty space and add the beaten eggs. Let them sit for 10 seconds before scrambling into bite-sized pieces. Push the eggs aside with the aromatics.
-
Toss Noodles: Add the softened noodles to the pan, followed by your noodle sauce. Let this toast for about 5 seconds, then toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated and the sauce is mostly absorbed.
-
Add Vegetables: Toss in the yu choy and bean sprouts, mixing until everything is well combined. You’ll want the veggies to retain their crispness while blending with the noodles.
-
Combine Shrimp: Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss them until evenly mixed with the noodles and veggies. Serve immediately and relish this homemade delight!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra fresh burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Bihun Goreng?
Create a complete dining experience that’ll delight your loved ones with these perfect pairings.
-
Sweet Thai Chili Sauce: Drizzling this over your Bihun Goreng adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the savory flavors.
-
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites complement the soft noodles, offering a delightful contrast in texture that enhances your meal.
-
Fresh Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, a simple salad with cucumbers and rice vinegar can brighten up the richness of the dish.
-
Tropical Fruit Salad: The sweetness of fruits like mango and pineapple provides a lovely contrast to the bold flavors of the noodles while cleansing the palate.
-
Iced Lemon Tea: Cool and citrusy, this drink is refreshing and elevates the meal with its crisp notes after each savory bite.
-
Spicy Sambal: For heat lovers, a side of sambal offers a fiery kick that pairs beautifully with the richness of the Bihun Goreng.
-
Peanut Satay Skewers: These skewers add a protein punch along with a nutty flavor that harmonizes well with the dish’s savory components.
Combining these delicious sides will transform your Bihun Goreng into a memorable feast that you and your family will cherish!
Storage Tips for Bihun Goreng
Room Temperature: Bihun Goreng is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, it can sit out for no longer than 2 hours before spoilage sets in.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: While not recommended for optimal texture, you can freeze Bihun Goreng for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm up in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to steam the noodles back to their tender state, making sure everything is heated through.
Bihun Goreng Variations
Don’t hesitate to make Bihun Goreng your own with these delightful twists!
-
Vegetarian: Swap shrimp for tofu or tempeh, marinated in soy sauce for a satisfying earthy flavor.
Transforming it into a plant-based delight, this option is just as delicious and sure to please everyone at your table. -
Spicy Kick: Add sliced red chilies or a drizzle of sriracha for a fiery touch that amps up the flavor.
A little heat can wake up the taste buds, giving each bite a thrilling edge! -
Noodle Alternatives: Use glass noodles or even whole grain pasta for a unique texture and a healthier option.
Both alternatives offer a fun twist and still allow you to enjoy that chewy noodle experience! -
Flavor Infusion: Introduce sesame oil into the marinade or drizzle over the finished dish to deepen the flavor profile.
The nutty aroma of sesame oil adds a fragrant depth that beautifully complements the other ingredients. -
Crunchy Toppings: Garnish with crushed peanuts or fried shallots for a satisfying crunch and an extra burst of flavor.
Toppings like this provide not only texture but also an irresistible finishing touch your family will adore. -
Add More Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added color, flavor, and nutrition.
The more, the merrier when it comes to vegetables—each bite becomes a vibrant experience with these additions! -
Coconut Twist: Stir in a splash of coconut milk while tossing the noodles for a creamy, tropical flair.
This unexpected addition turns Bihun Goreng into a rich and indulgent dish that transports you to paradise. -
Infused Proteins: Marinate chicken thighs in ginger and garlic for a zesty flavor before adding to your dish.
This idea will give your Bihun Goreng a lovely aromatic layer, making it even more enticing for seafood and meat lovers alike!
Expert Tips for Bihun Goreng
-
Perfect Noodle Texture: Soak the rice vermicelli until just soft, not mushy; over-soaking can lead to a clumpy dish.
-
Avoid Overcooking Shrimp: Cook shrimp until just pink—about 30-90 seconds. They’ll continue to cook off the heat, so be cautious!
-
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for a colorful twist in your Bihun Goreng!
-
Sauté with Care: When sautéing garlic and shallots, avoid burning them. They should be fragrant without turning brown for the best flavor.
-
Balance the Flavors: Taste and adjust the sauce before tossing with the noodles. A pinch of sugar can balance any overly salty notes from the soy sauce.
-
Fresh Garnishes: For an extra burst of flavor, finish your dish with fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime when serving.
Make Ahead Options
Bihun Goreng is an ideal candidate for meal prep, allowing you to savor its deliciousness on your busiest days! You can marinate the shrimp (or chicken) and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The noodles can be soaked and stored for up to 3 days; just make sure they are drained well to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to finish up, simply sauté your aromatics, scramble the eggs, toss in the prepped shrimp and noodles, add your fresh veggies, and warm everything together to serve your family a delightful homemade meal that tastes just as amazing as if it were made fresh!
Bihun Goreng Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right rice vermicelli for Bihun Goreng?
Absolutely! Look for rice vermicelli that’s labeled as “dry” and is typically packaged in thin bundles. It should be opaque and not clumpy. A good quality noodle will cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully.
What is the best way to store leftover Bihun Goreng?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. If kept in the fridge, it should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing the container to avoid moisture buildup.
Can I freeze Bihun Goreng, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze it, though the texture may change a bit once thawed. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up in a pan with a splash of water over medium heat to bring the noodles back to life.
What should I do if my shrimp overcooked?
Very! If shrimp are overcooked, they can become rubbery. To prevent overcooking, make sure to cook them just until they turn pink and slightly curled, which typically takes about 30 to 90 seconds. If you do overcook them, you can mix them into the dish where the added sauce may help soften them slightly.
Is Bihun Goreng safe for allergies, like shellfish?
If you or your guests have shellfish allergies, it’s best to substitute the shrimp with chicken, tofu, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Just ensure to use a vegetarian oyster sauce or omit it for a fully vegetarian dish. Always check labels for any hidden allergens in sauces too!
How can I enhance the flavor of my Bihun Goreng?
To boost flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime before serving. For an umami kick, a sprinkle of fried shallots on top can add extra crunch and depth to your dish. Mixing in a pinch of sugar can also balance out salty flavors.
Delicious Bihun Goreng: A Flavorful Twist on Noodles at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the shrimp with soy sauce, baking soda, and cornstarch for 15 minutes.
- Soak the dry rice vermicelli in boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes until they soften, then strain and rinse with cold water.
- Combine all noodle sauce ingredients in a small bowl, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat; cook marinated shrimp until pink, about 30 to 90 seconds.
- Sauté shallots and garlic in the same pan for about 10 seconds until fragrant.
- Add another tablespoon of oil, pour in beaten eggs, and scrape into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the softened noodles and noodle sauce, and toss until evenly coated.
- Toss in yu choy and bean sprouts, mixing until well combined.
- Return cooked shrimp to the pan and toss everything together until mixed.
