Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of the Philippines with this mouthwatering Ham and Eggplant Pancit Bihon! This isn't just another noodle dish – it's a symphony of flavors that combines tender bihon noodles, savory ham, and perfectly cooked vegetables in a dish that promises to become your new comfort food obsession. Whether you're a Filipino cuisine enthusiast or a curious foodie looking to expand your culinary horizons, this recipe is about to revolutionize your dinner routine with its irresistible blend of textures and tastes.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Filipino
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz bihon noodles
- 1 cup cooked ham, sliced
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables. Slice ham into thin strips and set aside.
- Heat a large wok or wide skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of cooking oil and sauté minced garlic and chopped onions until fragrant and translucent.
- Add sliced eggplant to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften and develop light golden edges.
- Incorporate julienned carrots and shredded cabbage, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes until vegetables begin to soften but remain crisp.
- Add sliced ham to the vegetable mixture and cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm through.
- Pour chicken broth and soy sauce into the pan, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add dry bihon noodles directly to the pan, using tongs to gently mix and help noodles absorb the liquid. Cook for 3-4 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions.
- Serve hot immediately, allowing diners to enjoy the warm, flavorful pancit with its mix of tender noodles, vegetables, and ham.
Tips
- Noodle Preparation: Soak your bihon noodles briefly before cooking to ensure they're perfectly tender but not mushy. Avoid overcooking to maintain that signature al dente texture.
- Vegetable Timing: Cut your vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Add harder vegetables like carrots first, and more delicate ones like cabbage later to maintain their crispness.
- Wok or Skillet Magic: Use a wide, flat-bottomed pan or traditional wok to allow even heat distribution and prevent noodles from sticking.
- Liquid Balance: Add chicken broth gradually and let the noodles absorb the liquid naturally. This helps infuse maximum flavor into every strand.
- Garnish Game: Fresh green onions are not just a garnish – they add a burst of flavor and freshness that elevates the entire dish.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor. Pancit is best enjoyed fresh and can dry out if left standing too long.Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a squeeze of calamansi or lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the entire dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 25mg
