Are you craving a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal? Look no further than Bihun Goreng, a beloved Indonesian dish featuring stir-fried rice noodles with a medley of savory ingredients. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend cooking project. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this homemade dish is sure to impress! Get ready to embark on a delicious adventure into the vibrant world of Indonesian cuisine.
Ingredients: What You'll Need for this Simple Recipe
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Adjust the quantities accordingly if you're cooking for a larger crowd.
- 200g dried rice vermicelli (bihun), soaked in warm water until softened
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 100g shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional, can substitute with chicken or tofu)
- 100g Chinese sausage (lap cheong), thinly sliced (optional)
- 100g bean sprouts
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 2 tbsp sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tsp shrimp paste (belacan), optional (adds a distinctive umami flavor)
- 1/2 tsp ground white pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Authentic Bihun Goreng
This easy-to-follow guide will have you enjoying your homemade Bihun Goreng in no time.
1. Prepare the Noodles: Soak the dried rice vermicelli in warm water until soft, usually about 10-15 minutes. Drain well before cooking.
2. Stir-fry the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onions, sautéing until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add the chili and stir-fry briefly.
3. Add Protein (Optional): If using shrimp or Chinese sausage, add them to the wok and stir-fry until they are cooked through. Shrimp cooks quickly, usually just a couple of minutes. If using chicken, ensure it's fully cooked before proceeding.
4. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the bean sprouts and shredded cabbage to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Combine and Season: Add the drained rice vermicelli noodles to the wok. Pour in the sweet soy sauce, light soy sauce, and shrimp paste (if using). Season with ground white pepper. Stir-fry everything together until well combined and heated through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped scallions. Serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.
Cooking Tips for the Best Bihun Goreng
- Don't overcook the noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy. Stir-fry them just until heated through.
- Adjust the spice level: Add more or less chili depending on your preference. For a milder version, you can omit the chili altogether.
- Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or snow peas.
- Use fresh ingredients: Using fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor of your Bihun Goreng.
Variations: Making it Your Own
- Vegetarian Bihun Goreng: Omit the shrimp and Chinese sausage, and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Spicy Bihun Goreng: Add more chili or a dash of chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
- Seafood Bihun Goreng: Include other seafood such as squid or mussels for a seafood feast.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Fat: 10-15g
This simple recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy your delicious homemade Bihun Goreng!