Sopa de Fideo is a comforting and traditional Mexican noodle soup, perfect for warming up on a chilly day or enjoying as a light meal. The soup is made with thin, toasted vermicelli noodles (fideos) simmered in a rich tomato-based broth infused with garlic, onion, and a hint of cumin. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the earthiness of homemade broth and the freshness of tomatoes, making it a beloved staple in Mexican households. Whether served as a starter or a main course, Sopa de Fideo is sure to bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 7 oz (200g) fideo pasta (or thin vermicelli noodles)
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Toast the Fideo: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the fideo pasta and toast, stirring frequently, until the noodles are golden brown. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove the noodles from the pot and set them aside.
- Prepare the Tomato Base: In the same pot, add a bit more oil if necessary, and sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Blend the Tomatoes: While the onions are cooking, place the chopped tomatoes in a blender and blend until smooth. If needed, add a little bit of the broth to help with blending.
- Cook the Tomato Sauce: Pour the blended tomatoes into the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Add the cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Cook the mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it deepens in color and reduces slightly.
- Simmer the Soup: Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add the toasted fideo noodles. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the Sopa de Fideo hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice if desired. Enjoy!
