Description
Sopa de Fideo is a comforting and flavorful Mexican noodle soup made with toasted fideo noodles simmered in a savory tomato and chicken broth base, seasoned with cumin, oregano, and optional chili powder for a mild heat. Garnished with fresh cilantro and lime, this quick and easy soup offers a warm, homemade meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (or 2 medium fresh tomatoes, blended)
- 1 (4 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a mild heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Noodles
- 1 cup fideo noodles (or vermicelli pasta)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Toast the Fideo: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the fideo noodles and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, taking care not to burn them.
- Cook the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent.
- Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the diced or blended tomatoes along with the tomato sauce, cooking for about 5 minutes so the tomatoes release their juices and blend with the other ingredients.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and add cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Noodles through Simmering: Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes until the noodles are tender and thoroughly cooked.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and make any necessary adjustments to salt and seasoning.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to enhance freshness and flavor.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Add chili powder according to your preferred spice level for mild heat.
- Fresh tomatoes can be used instead of canned for a fresher taste.
- Ensure to toast the noodles properly for a deeper flavor but avoid burning them.
- Garnishing with cilantro and lime juice adds brightness to the soup.
