Ho Fun Noodles: The Ultimate Guide to This Savory Stir-Fried Favorite

Ho fun noodles are the wide, slippery, savory stars of Cantonese stir-fry dishes that have won hearts across Asia and beyond. Whether you’re a fan of the chewy texture or the smoky aroma from a hot wok, there’s something deeply satisfying about this classic rice noodle dish. Known for its versatility and ability to absorb bold flavors, ho fun noodles are a staple in Chinese cooking—and they’re making a flavorful comeback in Western kitchens.

In this guide, you’ll discover what ho fun noodles really are, how they compare to other noodles like chow mein and mei fun, and how to cook them like a pro. We’ll explore traditional ho fun recipes, dive into Malaysian variations, cover dietary perks like being gluten-free, and share tips to get that perfect charred “wok hei” flavor.

Don’t miss our guide to chow foon stir-frying techniques for mastering wok skills at home.

Introduction to Ho Fun Noodles

What Are Ho Fun Noodles?

Ho fun noodles, also known as shahe fen, are wide, flat rice noodles made from rice flour and water. Popular in Cantonese cuisine, especially from Hong Kong and southern China, these noodles are soft, slippery, and perfect for soaking up sauces. Typically about 1 to 2 centimeters wide, ho fun noodles differ significantly from thin vermicelli or wheat-based noodles in texture and appearance.

They’re often stir-fried with beef, chicken, seafood, or vegetables and paired with soy-based sauces. The most iconic version, Beef Chow Fun or Gan Chao Niu He, is a dry stir-fry that highlights the noodle’s silky texture and smoky edges.

These noodles can be found fresh, refrigerated, or dried. Fresh ho fun is more flexible but highly perishable, while dried versions require soaking before cooking.

A Brief History of Ho Fun in Chinese Cuisine

Ho fun noodles originate from Shahe, a town in Guangzhou, China. Originally eaten by laborers, ho fun was prized for being filling and affordable. Over time, chefs began stir-frying these noodles with leftover meats and sauces to create dishes that were both flavorful and resourceful.

The technique of stir-frying ho fun in a searing hot wok gave rise to the signature flavor known as wok hei, or “breath of the wok.” This slightly smoky, umami-rich profile became synonymous with quality Chinese street food.

Today, ho fun has traveled far beyond its humble beginnings. In Malaysia, ho fun transformed into dishes like Char Hor Fun, while in the U.S., Chinese restaurants often serve beef ho fun or shrimp ho fun alongside Americanized takeout favorites. The noodles’ ability to bridge authenticity and creativity is what keeps them timeless.

Looking for inspiration? Try our chow fun noodle recipe for beginners, an easy step-by-step guide for cooking at home.

Key Ingredients That Define Ho Fun

Flat Rice Noodles: What Makes Them Unique

At the heart of every great ho fun noodles dish are the noodles themselves—wide, slippery ribbons of rice-based goodness. Unlike wheat noodles that are firm and chewy, ho fun noodles are soft yet resilient, with a smooth surface that clings to sauce.

These flat noodles, typically ½ to 1 inch wide, are made from just rice flour and water. Some versions include a touch of tapioca or cornstarch to increase elasticity. When fresh, they’re pliable and slightly translucent. Dried ho fun requires soaking or boiling before use, but the texture is nearly as satisfying once rehydrated.

One of the reasons these noodles stand out is their ability to soak up bold flavors like garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and oyster sauce while still holding their form. This makes them ideal for high-heat stir-frying without falling apart.

Want to try a noodle swap? Discover great ideas like shaved ribeye with rice noodles for a fusion twist on traditional ho fun.

Sauces and Proteins Commonly Paired with Ho Fun

Ho fun noodles don’t work alone. Their subtle, neutral taste is the perfect canvas for deeply flavored sauces and juicy proteins. Here’s what commonly makes them shine:

Common Sauces:

Popular Protein Pairings:

• Beef – especially thin-sliced ribeye or flank steak
• Shrimp – in classic Shrimp Ho Fun or mixed stir-fries
• Chicken – tender marinated chicken absorbs sauces beautifully
• Tofu – great vegetarian substitute that soaks up flavor
• Eggs & Mixed Vegetables – for simple vegetarian ho fun

Ho fun’s real magic happens when these ingredients are stir-fried in a smoking-hot wok, creating the iconic “wok hei” flavor. This combination of charred edges and rich sauces is why dishes like Beef Chow Fun or Char Hor Fun are so beloved.

Don’t miss our beef and noodle fusion recipe that pairs silky sauces with hearty textures.

Types of Ho Fun Noodle Dishes

Dry-Fried Beef Ho Fun (Gan Chao Niu He)

Among all variations of ho fun noodles, Gan Chao Niu He (dry-fried beef ho fun) is arguably the most iconic. Originating in Cantonese cooking, this dish is prized for its simplicity, smokiness, and balance of textures. The word “dry” doesn’t mean the dish lacks moisture—it refers to the absence of sauce pooling on the plate. Instead, all the flavor is seared into the noodles and meat during a high-heat wok fry.

Here’s what goes into it:

• Beef: Thinly sliced flank or ribeye, marinated in soy, sesame oil, and Shaoxing wine
• Ho Fun Noodles: Fresh or rehydrated wide rice noodles that char beautifully
• Bean Sprouts and Scallions: Add crunch and aroma
• Sauce: A mix of light and dark soy, oyster sauce, and a dash of sugar

The magic happens with the “wok hei”—the slightly charred, smoky flavor you get only when ingredients are tossed in a blazing-hot wok. It takes practice, but once you’ve nailed it, you’ll want to cook it weekly.

Check out our guide on how to get restaurant-quality beef texture at home to perfect this dish.

Malaysian Char Hor Fun and Variations

Malaysia has its own love story with ho fun noodles, and it shows in their regional favorite: Char Hor Fun. This version is slightly different from the dry Cantonese type. It’s gravy-based, often served with a silky egg sauce poured over a bed of stir-fried noodles.

Char Hor Fun typically includes:

• Flat rice noodles pan-seared for crisp edges
• A light, savory egg gravy made with stock and corn starch
• Mixed seafood like shrimp, squid, and fish cakes
• Chinese greens such as choy sum or gai lan

Another Malaysian variation, Wat Tan Hor, uses a similar method but adds a beaten egg into the sauce while it simmers, creating ribbons of egg that coat the noodles in a luscious glaze.

These dishes are popular in hawker stalls across Malaysia and Singapore, where quick, affordable, and comforting meals are in demand.

Looking for inspiration? Try our seafood-based dinner ideas that pair well with rice noodles for a Malaysian flair.

Ho Fun Noodles vs Other Asian Noodles

Ho Fun vs Chow Mein: Texture, Ingredients, Cooking Style

While both are stir-fried noodle favorites, ho fun noodles and chow mein couldn’t be more different in look, feel, and flavor.

Here’s a side-by-side comparison to make things clearer:

Ho fun noodles are preferred when you want a tender, sauce-grabbing base. Chow mein is better for crunch lovers who enjoy a crisp-tender contrast in every bite.

Don’t miss our crispy chicken and noodle combo recipe for another take on stir-fry perfection.

Ho Fun vs Mei Fun: A Rice Noodle Showdown

If you thought all rice noodles were the same, think again. Ho fun noodles are wide and flat, while mei fun (also called mai fun or rice vermicelli) are thin, round, and string-like.

Let’s compare:

Shrimp ho fun is often stir-fried with a darker, more intense sauce, whereas shrimp mei fun may include curry powder and more dry spices in a lighter blend. If you like bold wok-charred flavors, ho fun wins. If you’re after something airy and light, mei fun is a great alternative.

Discover great ideas like our fusion shrimp noodle recipes to get the best of both worlds in your kitchen.

How to Cook Ho Fun Noodles at Home

Essential Tools and Wok Techniques

Cooking ho fun noodles at home isn’t just about tossing ingredients in a pan—it’s about replicating that signature street-style flair. And to do that, you’ll need the right tools and methods.

Essential Tools for Perfect Ho Fun:

• Carbon Steel Wok – Lightweight, heats up fast, and essential for developing “wok hei”
• High BTU Burner or Stove – You need serious heat to sear ho fun properly
• Wok Spatula (Chuan) – Helps flip and toss noodles without tearing them
• Noodle Soaking Tray or Colander – If using dried ho fun noodles, rehydration is key

Wok Hei Technique Tips:

• Preheat your wok until it’s smoking hot before adding oil
• Stir-fry proteins first, then remove them before tossing in noodles
• Add sauces along the edge of the wok, not directly onto noodles
• Toss, don’t stir—flipping gives noodles their signature charred edges
• Keep batches small; overcrowding kills the heat and leads to mushy noodles

Pro tip: Use peanut or canola oil for their high smoke point and neutral taste.

Looking for inspiration? Try our air-fryer ribs alongside stir-fried ho fun for a crunchy, saucy dinner combo.

Step-by-Step Ho Fun Stir Fry Recipe

Here’s a quick and flavorful recipe for beef ho fun noodles that you can master even on a weeknight.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz ho fun noodles (fresh or soaked dried)
• 6 oz thin-sliced beef (flank or ribeye)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 scallion, cut into 2-inch strips
• 2 tbsp oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Marinate beef with half the soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
2. Heat wok over high heat. Add oil and sear beef slices. Remove once browned.
3. Add more oil if needed, then toss in the ho fun noodles.
4. Pour in dark soy sauce and oyster sauce around the edges of the wok.
5. Add scallions, sprouts, and cooked beef. Toss everything until evenly coated and seared.
6. Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil and a quick toss.

Serve immediately and enjoy that authentic wok hei flavor right from your kitchen!

Don’t miss our Asian fusion pasta idea for more noodle-based creativity at home.

Ho Fun for Every Diet

Are Ho Fun Noodles Gluten-Free and Vegan?

If you’re following a gluten-free or plant-based diet, good news—ho fun noodles are one of the most accessible Asian noodle options out there.

Here’s why:

• Gluten-Free: Since they’re made primarily from rice flour and water, traditional ho fun noodles contain no wheat. This makes them a natural fit for anyone avoiding gluten due to celiac disease or intolerance.
• Vegan-Friendly: Pure ho fun noodles have no animal products. Just check the label to ensure no eggs or animal-based additives have been included—especially in packaged or restaurant versions.

That said, it’s not just about the noodles. Pay attention to sauces and add-ins:

• Avoid oyster sauce (use mushroom stir-fry sauce instead)
• Use tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce
• Choose plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms

Looking for a flavorful side dish? Don’t miss our plant-based coconut clusters that pair perfectly with vegan ho fun noodle bowls.

Are Rice Noodles Healthy Compared to Wheat-Based Noodles?

When comparing ho fun noodles (rice-based) to typical wheat noodles, many health-conscious eaters ask: which is better for you?

Let’s break it down:

Ho fun noodles are lower in calories and easier to digest for many. They’re great for people with dietary sensitivities but should still be eaten in moderation due to their high carbohydrate content.

Pairing ho fun with protein-rich foods (like shrimp or tofu) and fibrous veggies (like bok choy or bell peppers) makes it a well-balanced meal.

Check out our protein-packed popcorn snack to complement a noodle-based dinner for post-meal balance.

Tips for Perfecting Ho Fun at Home

How to Prevent Noodles from Sticking

One of the biggest challenges when stir-frying ho fun noodles at home is keeping them from sticking together or breaking apart. These flat rice noodles are delicate—and if you mishandle them, they’ll turn into a sticky, clumpy mess.

Here’s how to avoid that:

• Use fresh or properly soaked noodles: If using dried noodles, soak them in room-temperature water until soft, then drain thoroughly.
• Coat them in oil before stir-frying: A light drizzle of oil prevents clumping before they hit the pan.
• Don’t overcrowd the wok: Fry in batches if needed. Too many noodles = steam, not sear.
• Toss, don’t stir: Use a gentle flipping motion to separate noodles without tearing them.
• Wok heat matters: Add noodles only when your wok is fully heated and proteins are already cooked and removed.

Looking for a hands-off recipe while your wok cools? Try our cheesy garlic chicken wraps as an easy side to a noodle dinner night.

Getting the “Wok Hei” Flavor Right

If there’s one element that separates restaurant-style ho fun noodles from home-cooked versions, it’s the unmistakable wok hei—a smoky, charred aroma that brings depth to the dish.

Here’s how to get it right:

• Use a carbon steel wok and season it well for proper heat retention.
• Preheat until it smokes slightly. You should see thin wisps before adding oil.
• Cook quickly over high heat. Your total stir-fry time should be under 5 minutes.
• Add ingredients in stages. Layer flavors by cooking proteins, then noodles, then veggies.
• Let it sit. After tossing the noodles with sauce, allow them to sit untouched in the wok for 10–15 seconds. This is when the char develops.

Even a basic dish like shrimp ho fun can taste like takeout if you master this skill. Don’t miss our crispy shrimp snacks that mimic wok-fired textures.

Where to Buy or Order Ho Fun Noodles

Best Online and Local Stores for Rice Noodles

If you’re craving ho fun noodles but don’t live near a Chinatown or Asian market, don’t worry—there are more ways than ever to get these iconic noodles delivered to your door.

Top Places to Buy Ho Fun Noodles Online:

• Amazon – Offers a variety of dried ho fun brands like Twin Marquis and Dynasty
• Asian Veggies – Delivers fresh ho fun noodles to select U.S. cities
• Yamibuy – Specializes in Asian pantry staples, including refrigerated ho fun
• Weee! – An Asian grocery delivery platform with both dried and fresh noodle options

When shopping online, always check the label. Some products might be labeled “rice noodles” but are actually mei fun (thin), not the wide, flat noodles used for stir-frying. Look for keywords like wide rice noodles, shahe fen, or flat rice sticks.

Local Grocery Options:

• H Mart, 99 Ranch, or Lotte Market: These large Asian chains usually carry fresh ho fun in refrigerated sections
• Whole Foods & Sprouts: May carry rice noodles in their international aisles (usually dried varieties)
• Chinatown Markets: Your best bet for authentic, freshly made ho fun noodles if you live near a metro area

Pro tip: Once purchased, store fresh ho fun noodles in the fridge and use them within 3–4 days. Dried noodles can last months if sealed properly.

Looking for what to pair them with? Don’t miss our protein-rich dipping sauce recipe that doubles as a glaze or dressing.

Restaurants in the U.S. Serving Authentic Ho Fun

You don’t always need to cook to enjoy a perfect bowl of ho fun noodles. Plenty of restaurants across the U.S. specialize in this Cantonese classic—if you know where to look.

Popular U.S. Cities With Excellent Ho Fun Dishes:

• San Francisco & Oakland, CA – Chinatown eateries serve traditional beef ho fun with intense wok hei
• New York City, NY – Dim sum houses and noodle bars in Flushing and Manhattan’s Chinatown are go-to spots
• Houston, TX – Vietnamese-Chinese fusion restaurants offer Malaysian-style char hor fun
• Chicago, IL – Noodle houses in Argyle Street or Chinatown dish up shrimp ho fun with regional spins

When ordering at a restaurant, you might also see:

• Beef Chow Fun (dry-fried, Cantonese-style)
• Wat Tan Hor (Malaysian egg gravy ho fun)
• Seafood Ho Fun (with shrimp, scallops, and squid)

Some U.S. restaurants are even adding ho fun noodles to their vegan or gluten-free menus, given their adaptability and simplicity.

Craving a dish to prep between takeout orders? Try our easy crepe cake for dessert after a savory ho fun meal.

Cultural Significance and Modern Popularity

Ho Fun in American-Chinese and Malaysian Cuisine

Ho fun noodles are deeply rooted in Chinese culinary tradition, particularly from the Guangdong province. Originally crafted in the town of Shahe, the noodles started as a humble street food for workers and travelers. Over time, the dish gained popularity throughout Cantonese communities and eventually spread globally through migration and restaurant culture.

In American-Chinese cuisine, ho fun dishes like Beef Chow Fun became staples on takeout menus. They represent a preserved flavor of Chinese heritage while adapting to American tastes—bigger portions, slightly sweeter sauces, and customizable protein options.

In Malaysia, ho fun evolved into dishes like Char Hor Fun and Wat Tan Hor. These versions use the same wide rice noodles but incorporate Southeast Asian flavors like:

• Egg-based gravies
• Chinese broccoli
• Fish cakes
• Shrimp and squid

This blending of cultures makes ho fun noodles not just a dish, but a culinary bridge between traditions. Whether you’re in Kuala Lumpur or Kansas City, there’s a ho fun dish waiting to be enjoyed.

Discover great ideas like our Malaysian-Chinese inspired churu chicken that reflect this flavorful fusion.

Ho Fun’s Rise on TikTok, YouTube, and Food Blogs

The digital age has made ho fun noodles trendier than ever. From sizzling wok clips on TikTok to detailed how-to videos on YouTube, foodies and home chefs are embracing this noodle for its visual and flavorful appeal.

Why ho fun noodles are trending:

• Visual drama: Their wide, glossy texture photographs beautifully when stir-fried
• Wok hei obsession: Home cooks are chasing the smoky magic of professional wok cooking
• Diet adaptability: They’re naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly
• Comfort food appeal: With soft textures and savory sauces, ho fun dishes feel nostalgic and filling

Influencers now share viral videos of their ho fun attempts—often comparing them to chow mein or creating mashups like ho fun mac & cheese or spicy Korean ho fun.

Food bloggers are also catching on. Recipes for ho fun noodles are climbing search rankings, especially when combined with trending terms like “easy weeknight dinner” or “gluten-free stir fry.”

Want a viral twist? Try pairing ho fun with our cheesy stromboli hack for a fusion comfort-food combo that turns heads.

FAQs About Ho Fun Noodles

Conclusion: Ho Fun Noodles Are a Flavorful Journey Worth Taking

Whether you’re a noodle newbie or a seasoned stir-fry fan, ho fun noodles offer a delicious way to explore Asian flavors. Their versatility, diet-friendliness, and bold taste make them an unbeatable choice for homemade meals or takeout nights.

From Cantonese classics to Malaysian comfort dishes, ho fun noodles have carved out a space on menus and in home kitchens worldwide. Mastering the art of cooking them at home opens up endless opportunities for quick weeknight meals, impressive dinners, and bold flavor experiments.

Don’t miss our chow fun noodle recipe guide for an easy entry into the world of wok-fried rice noodles.

Beef Ho Fun Stir Fry

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A classic Cantonese dish made with wide rice noodles, tender marinated beef, and a savory soy-based sauce. Quick, satisfying, and packed with wok-fired flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz fresh or soaked ho fun noodles
• 6 oz flank steak or ribeye, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 2 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp neutral oil (canola or peanut)

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Instructions

1. Marinate the beef with ½ tbsp soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic for 10–15 minutes.
2. Heat a carbon steel wok until it starts to smoke, then add 1 tbsp oil.
3. Stir-fry the marinated beef quickly until browned, then set aside.
4. Add another tablespoon of oil and toss in the noodles.
5. Drizzle in the dark soy sauce and oyster sauce along the wok’s edge.
6. Return the beef to the wok with bean sprouts and scallions.
7. Toss everything together over high heat until evenly coated and charred.
8. Serve hot, garnished with more scallions or sesame oil if desired.

Notes

Use fresh ho fun noodles if possible for the best texture. Avoid overcrowding the wok—cook in batches if needed to retain wok hei (charred aroma). Substitute tofu for a vegetarian version.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir Fry
• Cuisine: Chinese, Cantonese

Keywords: ho fun noodles, beef ho fun, stir fry noodles, Cantonese beef stir fry, wide rice noodles