Fideo Recipe: If you’re looking for a quick, comforting, and delicious meal, fideo is the perfect choice! This Mexican-style pasta dish is made with toasted vermicelli noodles simmered in a flavorful tomato-based broth. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized with different proteins, vegetables, and spices. Whether you enjoy it as a soup or a drier pasta dish, fideo is a fantastic, budget-friendly meal the whole family will love!
Ingredients Needed
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup fideo noodles (or vermicelli)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- ½ small onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
- ½ teaspoon chili powder for a spicy kick
- ½ cup cooked chicken or ground beef
- ½ cup peas, carrots, or bell peppers
- Fresh cilantro or lime wedges for garnish
Equipment Required
- A large skillet or saucepan
- A blender or food processor
- A wooden spoon for stirring
Step 1: Toasting the Fideo Noodles
Toasting the fideo noodles is a crucial step that enhances their flavor and prevents them from becoming mushy.
Why Toasting is Important:
- Adds a nutty, rich flavor to the dish.
- Prevents the noodles from getting too soft when cooked.
Tips for Even Toasting:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the fideo noodles and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown.
- Be careful not to burn them—lower the heat if needed.
Step 2: Preparing the Base
A good tomato sauce base is essential for rich, flavorful fideo.
Making the Tomato Sauce:
- Blend together tomatoes, onion, garlic, and ½ cup broth until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a hot pan and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Enhancing Flavor with Spices:
- Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- For a spicy kick, mix in chili powder or red pepper flakes.
Step 3: Cooking the Fideo
Now it’s time to combine the toasted noodles with the delicious sauce!
- Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet with the noodles.
- Stir well and let it absorb the flavors for a minute.
- Add the remaining broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Adding Additional Ingredients
You can customize your fideo by adding different proteins and vegetables.
Meat and Protein Options:
- Shredded chicken or ground beef for a hearty version.
- Beans or lentils for added protein.
Vegetarian and Vegan Variations:
- Add chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Step 5: Adjusting the Consistency
Fideo can be served as a soupy dish or as a drier pasta—it’s up to you!
- For a soupier version, add extra broth.
- For a thicker, pasta-like consistency, let the liquid reduce longer.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serving
Garnishing Ideas:
- Fresh cilantro
- A squeeze of lime juice
- Crumbled queso fresco
Best Side Dishes:
- Warm tortillas
- Avocado slices
- Refried beans
Tips and Tricks for the Best Fideo
- Use fresh tomatoes for a vibrant flavor.
- Don’t skip toasting the noodles—it makes a big difference!
- Adjust spice levels to your preference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Burning the noodles – Stir constantly while toasting.
- Overcooking – Simmer only until the noodles are tender.
- Not blending the sauce well – A smooth sauce creates a better texture.
Health Benefits of Fideo
- Low in fat and rich in carbohydrates for energy.
- Can be made high-protein with added beans or meat.
- Full of antioxidants from tomatoes and spices.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a little extra broth to bring back moisture.
Variations of Fideo Recipe Around the World
- Spain – Fideuà with seafood
- Mexico – Sopa de Fideo (soupy version)
- Philippines – Pancit with vermicelli noodles
FAQs about Fideo Recipe
What is fideo?
Fideo refers to a type of thin noodle, often likened to angel hair pasta or vermicelli, which stars in the traditional Mexican dish known as “sopa de fideo.”
How do you cook fideo noodles?
To achieve the perfect texture, first, lightly brown the fideo noodles in oil until golden. This step adds a rich depth of flavor. Then, simmer them in a mixture of broth and tomato sauce until tender, absorbing the savory liquid.
What ingredients do you need for a fideo recipe?
A classic fideo recipe requires fideo noodles, oil, garlic, onions, broth (chicken or vegetable), and tomato sauce. Spices like cumin and chili powder can be added for an extra kick.
Can I add meat or vegetables to fideo?
Absolutely! Fideo is versatile. Feel free to add cooked chicken, ground beef, or veggies like carrots and peas to make your dish more substantial.
Is fideo gluten-free?
Traditional fideo noodles contain wheat, thus they are not gluten-free. However, you can substitute them with gluten-free spaghetti or vermicelli to cater to dietary restrictions.
How long does it take to make fideo?
Fideo is a quick and comforting dish, typically ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Can fideo be made vegan?
Yes, to make vegan fideo, use vegetable broth and check that the noodles do not contain any egg. Enhance the dish with plenty of vegetables for a hearty vegan meal.
Conclusion
Fideo is a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, this recipe is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Try it today and enjoy a taste of traditional Mexican cuisine!
