How to Make Bihun Goreng with Shrimp (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Bihun Goreng with Shrimp is a beloved stir-fried rice vermicelli dish, deeply rooted in Malaysia’s multicultural cuisine. Drawing influences from Malay, Chinese, and Indian culinary traditions, this noodle dish is a staple at homes and hawker stalls across the country. The thin rice noodles (bihun), paired with plump udang (shrimp), crisp vegetables, and aromatics like bawang putih (garlic) and cili merah (red chili), create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s both light and nourishing. Malaysians love to enjoy Bihun Goreng for lunch or as a hearty breakfast, especially during gatherings and celebrations. Its appeal lies in its versatility—easily adapted for vegetarian or higher-protein needs, and always packing a punch of local flavor with ingredients like kicap manis (sweet soy sauce), taugeh (bean sprouts), and optional belacan for umami depth. The delicate balance of sweet, salty, and spicy makes Bihun Goreng with Shrimp a comfort food that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Perfect for anyone seeking a taste of authentic Malaysian cuisine while watching their calorie intake.
Ingredients
- 120g (dry) Rice vermicelli (bihun) (soaked in warm water until soft)
- 120g Shrimp (udang), peeled and deveined (medium-sized)
- 2 cloves Garlic (bawang putih), minced
- 1 Red chili (cili merah), sliced
- 1 small Carrot, julienned
- 1 cup Cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup Bean sprouts (taugeh)
- 2 stalks Spring onion, sliced
- 1 1/2 tbsp Low sodium soy sauce (or kicap masin)
- 1/2 tbsp Sweet soy sauce (kicap manis)
- 1 tbsp Cooking oil (preferably canola or sunflower)
- 1 Lime wedge (for serving)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Soak the bihun (rice vermicelli) in warm water for 10 minutes until...
Soak the bihun (rice vermicelli) in warm water for 10 minutes until soft. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2 · Heat the cooking oil in a large wok or non-stick pan over medium heat
Heat the cooking oil in a large wok or non-stick pan over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic and sliced red chili until fragrant.
Step 3 · Add the shrimp (udang) and cook until they turn pink and are just c...
Add the shrimp (udang) and cook until they turn pink and are just cooked through.
Step 4 · Toss in the julienned carrot and shredded cabbage
Toss in the julienned carrot and shredded cabbage. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender but crisp.
Step 5 · Add the drained bihun
Add the drained bihun, low sodium soy sauce, and kicap manis. Gently toss everything together to ensure the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
Step 6 · Add the taugeh (bean sprouts) and spring onions
Add the taugeh (bean sprouts) and spring onions. Stir-fry briefly for another minute to keep them crisp and vibrant.
Step 7 · Turn off the heat
Turn off the heat. Serve hot with a squeeze of lime if desired.
Why this recipe is healthy
Bihun Goreng with Shrimp is a balanced meal with lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and an abundance of vegetables. By using low sodium soy sauce and sparing amounts of oil, this recipe is lower in sodium and saturated fat than typical versions. The variety of fresh vegetables adds antioxidants and fiber, supporting healthy digestion and long-lasting energy.
A note on tradition
Bihun Goreng is enjoyed throughout Malaysia, from urban hawker stalls in Kuala Lumpur to family gatherings in Penang. Traditionally served for breakfast or lunch, it’s especially popular during festive occasions and communal gatherings. The use of local vegetables, kicap manis, and fresh seafood reflects Malaysia’s abundance of produce and its harmonious blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavors.