Fideo Recipe
Fideo is a simple yet flavorful Mexican dish made with thin vermicelli noodles that are toasted and then simmered in a rich, savory tomato-based broth. Often referred to as “Sopa de Fideo,” this comforting dish is commonly served as a side or a light meal. It’s quick to prepare, making it a favorite for busy weeknight dinners or when you want something cozy and satisfying. Fideo is typically served with a squeeze of lime and fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Fideo
Fideo is all about the combination of toasted vermicelli and a flavorful tomato broth. The noodles are browned in oil, which gives them a deep, nutty flavor, and then simmered in a seasoned broth made from tomatoes, onions, and garlic. What I love about fideo is its versatility—it can be made with different types of broth (chicken, vegetable, or beef) and is easily customized with add-ins like vegetables or shredded chicken.
It’s a dish that’s hearty yet light, and the toasted noodles give it a unique texture that sets it apart from other soups. Plus, it’s a nostalgic recipe for many, bringing back memories of home-cooked meals.
Why You’ll Love Fideo
This dish is a quick, comforting, and flavorful option for any meal. The simplicity of ingredients—just pasta, tomatoes, and broth—makes it budget-friendly, while the toasted noodles and rich tomato broth elevate the flavor. I love how easy it is to make, and it’s always a hit with both kids and adults. You can also make it as thick or as soupy as you like, depending on how much broth you add.
Fideo is perfect as a side dish, but you can also turn it into a heartier meal by adding vegetables, beans, or meat.
Main Ingredients in Fideo
- Fideo (Vermicelli Noodles): The star of the dish, these thin noodles are toasted to add depth of flavor. You can find pre-cut fideo in most grocery stores, but if not, you can break regular vermicelli pasta into small pieces.
- Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes or canned tomato sauce create the base of the broth.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatics provide a savory flavor that complements the tomatoes and broth.
- Broth: Chicken broth is most commonly used, but you can substitute vegetable or beef broth depending on your preference.
- Oil: Used to toast the noodles and add richness to the dish.
- Spices (Cumin, Salt, and Pepper): These basic spices season the dish, giving it warmth and depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Fideo
Here’s how to make this classic and flavorful dish:
- Prepare the Tomato Mixture: If using fresh tomatoes, blend them with onion and garlic until smooth. If using canned tomato sauce, mix it with the minced garlic and diced onion in a blender or food processor.
- Toast the Noodles: In a large skillet or pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the fideo noodles and toast them, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown. Be careful not to burn them—this process should take about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the Tomato Mixture: Once the noodles are toasted, pour the tomato mixture into the skillet with the noodles. Stir well to coat the noodles.
- Add the Broth and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth and add cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer the Fideo: Cover the pot and let the fideo cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a soupier fideo, you can add more broth. For a thicker consistency, let the noodles cook until most of the broth is absorbed.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the fideo hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Tips for Making the Best Fideo
- Toast the Noodles: Toasting the noodles is key to developing their nutty flavor. Stir frequently to prevent burning, but don’t skip this step!
- Use Fresh or Canned Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes will give a lighter, fresher flavor, while canned tomato sauce is more concentrated and quicker to use.
- Customize with Add-Ins: You can add vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or peas to the fideo for extra nutrition. For a heartier dish, stir in shredded chicken, beef, or beans.
How to Store and Serve
Fideo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if it’s too thick.
This dish can be served as a light meal on its own or as a side dish to grilled meats, tacos, or enchiladas. It pairs well with fresh tortillas, a side salad, or a drizzle of salsa.
Fideo Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups fideo vermicelli noodles, broken into small pieces
- 2 medium tomatoes blended (or 1 cup tomato sauce)
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh cilantro and lime for garnish
Instructions
- Blend the Tomato Mixture: If using fresh tomatoes, blend them with the diced onion and minced garlic until smooth. If using canned tomato sauce, blend with the onion and garlic.
- Toast the Noodles: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the fideo noodles and toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the Tomato Mixture: Pour the blended tomato mixture into the skillet with the toasted noodles. Stir well to coat the noodles.
- Add Broth and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth and add cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer Until Tender: Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. For a soupier consistency, add more broth.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Serve hot.
