Bifun (Rice Noodle) Day (Bīfun no Hi)

What Is Bifun Day?

August 18 is "Bifun Day," based on a wordplay reading "bi (8) -fun (18)" as "bīfun" (rice noodles). It was established by Kenmin Foods Co., Ltd., a company well known for bifun production, with the goal of spreading bifun culture in Japan and helping more people rediscover the appeal of this healthy, rice-based noodle.

Why August 18 Is "Bifun Day"

Beyond the wordplay, bifun is still a relatively unfamiliar food in Japan, and this anniversary was created to raise awareness of it. Kenmin Foods has been producing bifun since 1950 and has played a major role in popularizing it in Japan.

• Wordplay: "Bi (8) -fun (18)" = "bīfun."
• Spreading awareness: Established to promote bifun culture in Japan.
• A historic food maker: An anniversary based on Kenmin Foods' long history of bifun production.

What Is Bifun?

Bifun is a noodle made from rice flour, widely eaten throughout Southeast Asia and southern China. In Japan, stir-fried bifun is the most common preparation, but it's a versatile ingredient that also works in soups and salads.

• Made from rice: Since it contains no wheat flour, it's also gaining attention as a gluten-free noodle.
• Versatile cooking: Can be stir-fried, used in soups, or tossed in salads.
• Long shelf life: The dried form keeps for a long time, making it a convenient pantry staple.

The History and Culture of Bifun

Bifun has a long history within Asian food culture.

• Roots in southern China: It has long been eaten in places like Fujian and Guangdong provinces.
• Widespread across Southeast Asia: It's also a daily staple in Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, and other countries.
• Spread in Japan: It gained attention in postwar Japan as a way to make use of rice, and gradually became more widespread.

Fun Facts About Bifun Day

• Kenmin's fried bifun: Launched in 1960, it's one of the most widely recognized bifun products in Japan.
• Bifun dishes around the world: Taiwan's "fried mifen," Thailand's "pad thai," and Vietnam's "pho" (rice noodles) each showcase regional characteristics.
• A healthy ingredient: Since it's made from rice, it's low in fat and has a light texture.
• Quick and convenient: Some dried varieties can be stir-fried without pre-soaking, making them popular for quick meals.

Tips for Enjoying Bifun Day

• Try classic recipes like stir-fried or soup bifun.
• Compare bifun dishes from Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond.
• Incorporate it into your everyday meals as a gluten-free option.
• Look into the history of bifun and Asian food culture to learn the story behind the dish.

A Simple, Light Rice Noodle That Connects Asia's Food Cultures

August 18's "Bifun Day" is a day to savor the surprising depth of this simple noodle made from rice. Discover the appeal of bifun, loved across Asia, and let it bring something new to your table.