Bihun Goreng Recipe: Easy Fried Vermicelli Noodles

Hello, dear friends! Aya here, from The Seasonal Table. Today, we’re embarking on a culinary journey to Indonesia, right in our own kitchens. We’re creating a vibrant and flavorful dish called Bihun Goreng, or fried vermicelli noodles. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to experience the beauty of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special.

Bihun Goreng is a beloved Southeast Asian staple, celebrated for its delicious savory flavors and satisfying texture. Imagine delicate rice vermicelli, stir-fried to perfection with succulent shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a medley of savory sauces. The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a bustling street food market. So grab your wok, and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Bihun Goreng Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about creating an experience. Here’s why I think you’ll absolutely adore this Bihun Goreng:

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, sweet kecap manis, and savory fish sauce creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Feel free to adapt the ingredients to your liking. Swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu, or add your favorite vegetables.
• Celebrates Freshness: The crisp bean sprouts and vibrant green onions add a delightful freshness that perfectly complements the richness of the noodles and sauce.
• A Taste of Indonesia: This recipe offers an authentic taste of Indonesian cuisine, allowing you to explore new flavors and culinary traditions.

I am so excited to share my recipe with you. I hope you enjoy making my Bihun Goreng as much as I enjoy creating it! Thank you for joining me in this culinary adventure.

Ingredients for the Best Bihun Goreng

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish. Remember, the quality of your ingredients directly impacts the flavor, so choose the freshest options you can find.

• 1/2 lb (8 oz) shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these add a lovely sweetness and protein.
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Adds a savory depth to the shrimp marinade.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses the shrimp with a nutty aroma.
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Balances the savory flavors in the shrimp marinade.
• 2 tablespoon kecap manis (or sweet soy sauce): This thick, sweet soy sauce is essential for authentic Bihun Goreng.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Enhances the overall savory flavor of the dish.
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce: Adds a distinct umami flavor (use sparingly, as it can be quite potent).
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and spice.
• 1/2 tablespoon sugar: Balances the savory and spicy notes in the sauce.
• 1/4 cup water: Helps to create a cohesive sauce.
• 1 tablespoon garlic: Minced, about 3 cloves. Garlic is the aromatic backbone of this dish.
• 1/4 cup shallot: Roughly chopped, about 1 large shallot. Shallots add a delicate oniony flavor.
• 2 eggs: Whisked. These add richness and protein to the dish.
• 1 cup bean sprouts: Rinsed. Bean sprouts provide a satisfying crunch and freshness.
• 2 stalks green onion: Finely chopped. Green onions add a vibrant color and mild onion flavor.
• 250 g vermicelli rice noodles: Soaked in warm water for 10 minutes. These are the star of the show! Make sure to use rice vermicelli, not wheat-based noodles.
• 1 cup napa cabbage: Shredded. Napa cabbage adds a mild sweetness and crisp texture.

How to Make Bihun Goreng: Step-by-Step Instructions

Now for the fun part! Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Bihun Goreng. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Cooking is all about experimentation and finding what tastes best to you.

1. Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, marinate the shrimp with 1 teaspoon soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
2. Soak the Noodles: While the shrimp marinates, soak the rice vermicelli in warm water for about 10 minutes, or until softened but still slightly firm. Drain well.
3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the kecap manis, soy sauce, fish sauce, white pepper, sugar, and water. Set aside.
4. Scramble the Eggs: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil and pour in the whisked eggs. Scramble until cooked through, then remove from the wok and set aside.
5. Sauté Aromatics: Add more oil to the wok and sauté the garlic and shallots until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Cook the Shrimp: Add the marinated shrimp to the wok and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Stir-Fry Vegetables: Add the napa cabbage and bean sprouts to the wok and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened.
8. Add the Noodles and Sauce: Add the soaked rice vermicelli and the prepared sauce to the wok. Stir-fry until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
9. Incorporate Eggs and Green Onion: Return the scrambled eggs to the wok and add the green onions. Stir-fry for another minute, until everything is well combined.
10. Serve Immediately: Serve your Bihun Goreng hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Bihun Goreng

Want to take your Bihun Goreng to the next level? Here are a few pro tips to keep in mind:

• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy. Aim for al dente – slightly firm to the bite.
• Use a Hot Wok: A hot wok is essential for achieving that signature stir-fry flavor. Make sure your wok is properly heated before adding the ingredients.
• Work in Batches: If you’re making a large batch, it’s best to stir-fry in smaller portions to ensure even cooking.
• Taste and Adjust: Taste the Bihun Goreng as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Don’t be afraid to add more soy sauce, kecap manis, or fish sauce to achieve your desired flavor profile.
• Garnish Generously: Garnish your Bihun Goreng with extra green onions, fried shallots, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the most experienced cooks can make mistakes. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid when making Bihun Goreng:

• Using the Wrong Type of Noodles: Make sure to use rice vermicelli noodles, not wheat-based noodles. Rice vermicelli has a delicate texture that is perfect for stir-frying.
• Overcrowding the Wok: Overcrowding the wok can lower the temperature and result in steamed, rather than stir-fried, ingredients.
• Adding Too Much Sauce at Once: Add the sauce gradually, allowing the noodles to absorb it evenly.
• Skipping the Marinating Step: Marinating the shrimp is crucial for infusing it with flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Not Draining the Noodles Properly: Make sure to drain the noodles thoroughly after soaking to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Bihun Goreng Variations: Make it Your Own!

The beauty of Bihun Goreng is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Chicken Bihun Goreng: Substitute the shrimp with diced chicken breast or thigh.
• Tofu Bihun Goreng: Use firm or extra-firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Vegetarian Bihun Goreng: Omit the shrimp and add more vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Spicy Bihun Goreng: Add a chili paste or sriracha to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Seafood Bihun Goreng: Include a mix of shrimp, squid, and fish for a seafood feast.

How to Store and Reheat Bihun Goreng

If you have any leftover Bihun Goreng, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply stir-fry in a wok or skillet over medium heat until heated through. You may need to add a little water or oil to prevent the noodles from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use dried shrimp in this recipe? Yes, you can use dried shrimp. Soak them in warm water until softened before adding them to the wok.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and soak the noodles ahead of time to save time.
• What if I don’t have kecap manis? If you can’t find kecap manis, you can substitute it with a mixture of soy sauce and brown sugar or molasses.
• Can I freeze Bihun Goreng? Freezing is not recommended, as the noodles can become mushy upon thawing.

Serving Suggestions

Bihun Goreng is a complete meal in itself, but it also pairs well with other Indonesian dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve with a side of pickled vegetables (acar): The tangy acidity of the pickles complements the richness of the noodles.
• Pair with grilled satay skewers: The smoky flavor of the satay adds another layer of complexity to the meal.
• Serve with a fried egg on top: A fried egg adds extra protein and richness.
• Offer a selection of chili sauces: Allow your guests to customize the spice level to their liking.

Thank you so much for joining me on this culinary journey! I hope you enjoy making my Bihun Goreng recipe as much as I do. Remember, cooking is an act of love, so put your heart into it and have fun!

Enjoy These Other Delicious Recipes!

If you enjoyed this Bihun Goreng recipe, you might also like these other delicious shrimp pasta recipes:

• Spinach Shrimp Fettuccine
• Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta
• Shrimp Pasta