Cooking the Perfect Bihon with Canton: A Step-by-Step Guide

Bihon with canton is a popular Filipino dish that combines the goodness of stir-fried noodles with the crunch of canton (also known as fried wonton strips). This dish is a staple in many Filipino households and is often served during special occasions. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking the perfect bihon with canton.

Understanding the Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients needed for this dish. The main ingredients are:

• 1 package of bihon noodles (also known as rice stick noodles)
• 1 cup of canton (fried wonton strips)
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of mixed vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts)
• 1 cup of cooked chicken or pork, diced
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

The Importance of Choosing the Right Bihon Noodles

When it comes to choosing the right bihon noodles, there are a few things to consider. First, make sure to choose a package that is labeled as “bihon” or “rice stick noodles.” These noodles are made from rice flour and are specifically designed for stir-frying.

Second, check the texture of the noodles. Bihon noodles should be soft and pliable, but not too soft that they become mushy when cooked. If the noodles are too hard, they may not cook evenly and may become brittle.

Tips for Cooking Bihon Noodles

Cooking bihon noodles can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you can achieve the perfect texture. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Always rinse the noodles in cold water before cooking to remove any excess starch.
• Use a large pot to cook the noodles, as this will help them cook evenly.
• Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, but make sure to check on them frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Once the noodles are cooked, drain them in a colander and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Preparing the Canton

While bihon noodles are the main ingredient in this dish, the canton (fried wonton strips) adds a nice crunch and texture. To prepare the canton, you will need:

• 1 package of wonton wrappers
• Vegetable oil for frying

How to Fry Wonton Wrappers

Frying wonton wrappers can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you can achieve the perfect crunch. Here’s how to do it:

• Heat a large pot of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
• Once the oil is hot, add a few wonton wrappers to the pot (do not overcrowd the pot).
• Fry the wonton wrappers until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
• Remove the fried wonton wrappers from the pot and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Tips for Frying Wonton Wrappers

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when frying wonton wrappers:

• Make sure the oil is hot before adding the wonton wrappers. This will help them fry evenly and prevent them from absorbing too much oil.
• Do not overcrowd the pot, as this can cause the wonton wrappers to stick together.
• Fry the wonton wrappers until they are golden brown and crispy, but not too long that they become burnt.

Cooking the Bihon with Canton

Now that we have prepared the bihon noodles and canton, it’s time to cook the dish. Here’s how to do it:

• Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry until they are softened.
• Add the mixed vegetables and cooked chicken or pork to the pan and stir-fry until they are combined.
• Add the cooked bihon noodles to the pan and stir-fry until they are well combined with the vegetables and meat.
• Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan and stir-fry until the noodles are well coated.
• Add the fried wonton wrappers to the pan and stir-fry until they are well combined with the noodles and vegetables.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips for Cooking Bihon with Canton

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when cooking bihon with canton:

• Make sure to stir-fry the ingredients quickly and constantly, as this will help them cook evenly and prevent them from burning.
• Add the ingredients in the right order, as this will help them cook evenly and prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Do not overcook the noodles, as this can cause them to become mushy and unappetizing.

Serving Suggestions

Bihon with canton is a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve the bihon with canton as a main dish, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of soy sauce.
• Serve the bihon with canton as a side dish, accompanied by a variety of other Filipino dishes.
• Serve the bihon with canton as a snack, accompanied by a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and vinegar.

By following these steps and tips, you can create a delicious and authentic bihon with canton dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to always use fresh and high-quality ingredients, and to cook the dish with love and care. Happy cooking!

What is Bihon with Canton and why is it a popular dish?

Bihon with Canton is a popular Filipino-Chinese stir-fry noodle dish made with bihon (thin rice flour noodles), canton (egg noodles), and various vegetables and/or meat or seafood. It is a staple in many Filipino households and is often served during special occasions and celebrations. The dish is loved for its flavorful and savory taste, as well as its versatility in terms of ingredients.

The combination of bihon and canton noodles gives the dish a unique texture, with the bihon noodles adding a soft and delicate touch, while the canton noodles provide a slightly chewier bite. The variety of ingredients used in the dish also makes it a favorite among many, as it can be easily customized to suit different tastes and preferences.

What are the essential ingredients needed to cook Bihon with Canton?

The essential ingredients needed to cook Bihon with Canton include bihon and canton noodles, vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts, and protein sources like pork, chicken, or shrimp. Other ingredients like onions, garlic, and soy sauce are also necessary to add flavor to the dish. Depending on personal preference, other ingredients like patis (fish sauce) and calamansi (Filipino lime) can also be added.

It’s also important to note that the quality of the ingredients used can affect the overall taste and texture of the dish. Fresh and high-quality ingredients will result in a better-tasting and more visually appealing dish. Additionally, the right ratio of bihon to canton noodles is also crucial, as it can affect the overall texture of the dish.

How do I prepare the ingredients before cooking Bihon with Canton?

Before cooking Bihon with Canton, it’s essential to prepare the ingredients by chopping the vegetables and protein sources into bite-sized pieces. The bihon and canton noodles should also be soaked in water to soften them. The onions and garlic should be minced, and the soy sauce and other seasonings should be measured and set aside.

Proper preparation of the ingredients will ensure that the cooking process goes smoothly and that the dish turns out well. It’s also important to have all the ingredients ready and within reach before starting to cook, as this will save time and reduce stress during the cooking process.

What is the correct way to cook the noodles for Bihon with Canton?

The correct way to cook the noodles for Bihon with Canton is to soak them in water for a few minutes to soften them, then blanch them in boiling water for a few seconds to remove excess starch. The noodles should then be drained and set aside. It’s essential to not overcook the noodles, as this can make them mushy and unappetizing.

The key to cooking the perfect noodles is to cook them briefly and then let them finish cooking in the wok or pan with the other ingredients. This will help the noodles absorb the flavors of the dish and result in a more delicious and satisfying meal.

How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy or sticky?

To prevent the noodles from becoming mushy or sticky, it’s essential to not overcook them and to stir-fry them quickly over high heat. Adding a small amount of oil to the wok or pan can also help prevent the noodles from sticking together. Additionally, using the right ratio of bihon to canton noodles can also help prevent the noodles from becoming mushy.

It’s also important to not overcrowd the wok or pan, as this can cause the noodles to steam instead of stir-fry, resulting in a mushy texture. Cooking the noodles in batches if necessary can help prevent this from happening.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking Bihon with Canton?

Some common mistakes to avoid when cooking Bihon with Canton include overcooking the noodles, not using the right ratio of bihon to canton noodles, and not stir-frying the ingredients quickly enough. Adding too much soy sauce or other seasonings can also make the dish too salty or overpowering.

Another common mistake is not preparing the ingredients properly before cooking, which can result in a dish that is not visually appealing or flavorful. Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients can also affect the overall taste and texture of the dish.

How can I customize Bihon with Canton to suit my taste preferences?

Bihon with Canton can be customized to suit different taste preferences by adding or substituting various ingredients. For example, adding more vegetables or protein sources can make the dish more substantial, while using different seasonings or sauces can change the flavor profile of the dish. Vegetarians or vegans can also substitute the protein sources with tofu or tempeh.

Additionally, the type and amount of noodles used can also be adjusted to suit personal preference. Some people may prefer a higher ratio of bihon to canton noodles, while others may prefer the opposite. Experimenting with different ingredients and seasonings can help create a unique and delicious version of Bihon with Canton.