Economic Bee Hoon also known as Economic Fried Bee Hoon is a popular and affordable breakfast or lunch dish commonly found in hawker centers across Singapore and Malaysia. This humble yet delicious meal consists of stirfried rice vermicelli served with simple sides like fried eggs sausages vegetables and fried tofu. It is quick to prepare budgetfriendly and perfect for a satisfying homecooked meal.
What is Economic Bee Hoon
Economic Bee Hoon gets its name from its affordability as it is often sold at low prices in hawker stalls. It is made with thin rice vermicelli also known as bee hoon that is lightly stirfried with soy sauce and aromatics. The dish is usually served with simple and affordable sides making it a popular choice for breakfast or a quick meal.
Ingredients for Economic Bee Hoon
For the Bee Hoon
- 200 grams rice vermicelli bee hoon soaked and drained
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce for color
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce optional for extra flavor
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 cup water or chicken broth for added flavor
- 1 handful bean sprouts optional
- 1 handful shredded cabbage optional
Common Side Dishes
- 1 fried egg
- 2 to 3 pieces fried tofu
- 1 Chinese sausage sliced
- 1 fried chicken wing or luncheon meat slices
- Chili sauce for dipping
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 Prepare the Bee Hoon
- Soak the rice vermicelli in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes until soft then drain and set aside.
- In a small bowl mix light soy sauce dark soy sauce oyster sauce sesame oil and sugar. Stir well.
Step 2 StirFry the Bee Hoon
- Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the cabbage or bean sprouts if using and stirfry for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Pour in the sauce mixture followed by water or broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the softened bee hoon and toss well to coat evenly. Stirfry for about 5 minutes until the noodles absorb the sauce and become tender.
Step 3 Cook the Side Dishes
- While the bee hoon is cooking prepare the side dishes.
- Panfry eggs sausages tofu or luncheon meat until golden brown.
- If using fried chicken wings heat them in the oven or air fryer until crispy.
Step 4 Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the cooked bee hoon to a plate.
- Arrange the side dishes on top or beside the noodles.
- Serve with chili sauce on the side for an extra kick.
Tips for the Best Economic Bee Hoon
Use good quality rice vermicelli for a smooth and nonsticky texture. Do not oversoak the noodles to prevent them from turning mushy when stirfried. Add a bit of broth instead of water for extra flavor in the noodles. Customize your toppings with vegetables seafood or meat to suit your taste. Pair with sambal chili or pickled green chilies for an authentic hawkerstyle experience.
Conclusion
Economic Bee Hoon is a simple yet satisfying dish that you can easily make at home with just a few basic ingredients. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a variety of toppings this dish is perfect for a quick affordable and tasty meal. Try making your own homemade Economic Bee Hoon and enjoy the comfort of hawkerstyle food anytime.
FAQs
1. What is Economic Bee Hoon?
Economic Bee Hoon is a simple stir-fried rice vermicelli dish commonly found in hawker centers, served with affordable side dishes.
2. How do I prevent my bee hoon from becoming soggy?
Avoid oversoaking the bee hoon and stir-fry it over medium heat, letting it absorb just enough sauce without becoming too soft.
3. Can I make Economic Bee Hoon without oyster sauce?
Yes, you can skip the oyster sauce or replace it with mushroom sauce or a little more soy sauce for a similar umami flavor.
4. What are common side dishes for Economic Bee Hoon?
Fried egg, luncheon meat, fried chicken wings, Chinese sausage, and fried tofu are popular side dishes that complement the noodles.
5. Can I add vegetables or meat to Economic Bee Hoon?
Yes, you can add shredded cabbage, bean sprouts, carrots, or proteins like prawns, chicken, or beef for a more nutritious meal.
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