Description
Sopa de Fideo is a comforting Mexican noodle soup featuring toasted vermicelli noodles simmered in a flavorful tomato and chicken broth base, seasoned with cumin and oregano, and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime for a bright finish. This easy, aromatic soup is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light lunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup fideo noodles (or vermicelli pasta)
- 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
Garnishes
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the Fideo: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or saucepan over medium heat. Add the fideo noodles and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown, taking care not to burn them.
- Cook the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the toasted noodles. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent.
- Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes (or blended fresh tomatoes) and tomato sauce. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to 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: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes until the noodles are tender and fully cooked.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Chili powder is optional and can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Fresh tomatoes can be used instead of canned for a fresher taste; simply blend them before adding.
- Do not burn the noodles while toasting; keep stirring constantly.
- Sopa de Fideo pairs well with warm tortillas or crusty bread.
