If you’ve been craving a comforting bowl of goodness that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you absolutely have to try this Sopa de Fideo Recipe. This classic Mexican noodle soup is not only quick and simple to make but also packs vibrant flavors from fresh tomatoes, aromatic spices, and tender fideo noodles. Whether you’re looking to soothe your soul or impress friends with a humble yet delicious dish, this Sopa de Fideo Recipe is the perfect choice to add some cozy magic to your mealtime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sopa de Fideo Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, bring texture, and add color that makes every spoonful memorable.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps in sautéing the vegetables to develop deep flavors.
- Onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory base that forms the heart of the soup.
- Garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavor that elevates the aroma instantly.
- Tomato, diced: Contributes acidity and sweetness to balance the spices.
- Crushed tomatoes: Adds depth and body, creating the soup’s vibrant red character.
- Vegetable or chicken broth: Serves as the foundation, bringing richness and warmth.
- Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s utterly comforting.
- Chili powder: Gives a mild heat that gently teases your taste buds.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle touch of heat and complexity.
- Fideo noodles (or vermicelli): Cook quickly and absorb the broth for perfect texture.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note for brightness.
- Avocado, sliced: Adds creaminess and richness when served as a garnish.
- Lime wedges: Enhances the flavors with a zesty, refreshing finish.
How to Make Sopa de Fideo Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté them gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. This step lays the savory foundation you’ll be building on.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Next, throw in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute. Garlic cooks quickly and becomes wonderfully aromatic, so keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes
Stir in the diced tomato next, allowing it to soften and release its juices over 2 to 3 minutes. This adds a lovely sweet tang that balances well with the spices.
Step 4: Add Crushed Tomatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This deepens the tomato flavor and thickens the base of your soup, making it rich and comforting.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Now, add the broth, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to allow all those wonderful spices and ingredients to mingle and infuse the liquid.
Step 6: Cook the Fideo Noodles
Once the broth is simmering, add the fideo noodles. These fine noodles cook quickly, usually in about 6 to 8 minutes. They soak up the flavorful broth and become tender without falling apart.
Step 7: Adjust the Seasoning
Remove the pot from heat and taste the soup. This is your moment to add any extra salt, pepper, or spice according to your preference to perfectly balance the flavors.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Dish the soup into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, slices of creamy avocado, and a squeeze of lime wedges. These garnishes bring brightness and cool contrast that elevate the soup to something truly special.
How to Serve Sopa de Fideo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro, silky avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime instantly brighten the soup. These simple additions create layers of flavor and texture that turn each spoonful into a small celebration.
Side Dishes
This hearty Sopa de Fideo Recipe pairs beautifully with warm corn tortillas, a side of refried beans, or a crisp salad. These sides round out the meal and add variety without overshadowing the soup’s delicate profile.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this soup in rustic bowls for a cozy vibe or in chic white dinnerware for a modern touch. Adding a dollop of Mexican crema or a sprinkle of queso fresco can also add another dimension. For a crowd, consider serving the soup family-style with all the garnishes on the side so everyone can customize their own bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Sopa de Fideo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb more broth over time, so you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Freezing
Freezing this soup is possible but not ideal, as the noodles tend to become mushy. If you do freeze, freeze the broth separately from the noodles for best results and combine them when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat until warmed through. Be sure to stir occasionally, and add extra broth or water if the soup seems too thick. Garnish fresh after reheating for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles instead of fideo?
Absolutely! While fideo noodles are traditional because they cook quickly and absorb flavor well, thin vermicelli or angel hair pasta works fine too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid mushiness.
Is this dish spicy?
This Sopa de Fideo Recipe has a gentle warmth from the chili powder, not overpowering heat. If you prefer more spice, you can always add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño during cooking.
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure your garnishes are plant-based. The flavors remain just as vibrant and delicious.
How long does it take to prepare this soup?
This recipe is wonderfully quick, with about 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time. It’s a great choice for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
What’s the best way to store leftovers to maintain flavor?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator and add a little broth when reheating to refresh the noodles. Garnish freshly after warming to maintain brightness in flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly wonderful about a bowl of Sopa de Fideo Recipe, delivering warmth, comfort, and bright flavors all at once. It’s simple to make yet satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try — you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy a Mexican classic that feels like home in every bowl.
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Sopa de Fideo Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-4.5 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sopa de Fideo is a traditional Mexican noodle soup that combines toasted vermicelli noodles simmered in a flavorful tomato and vegetable broth, seasoned with cumin and chili powder. This comforting soup is garnished with fresh cilantro, creamy avocado slices, and bright lime wedges, making it a perfect, hearty dish for any day.
Ingredients
Sopa de Fideo Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 medium Onion, diced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 medium Tomato, diced
- 14 oz Crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups Vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
- 8 oz Fideo noodles (or vermicelli)
- 1 cup Fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 whole Avocado, sliced
- to taste Lime wedges
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent, providing a sweet and savory base.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma and flavor.
- Cook Tomato: Add the diced medium tomato to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing its acidity and sweetness to meld into the mixture.
- Add Crushed Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well, and let cook for about 5 minutes to deepen the soup’s flavor.
- Add Broth and Spices: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, then add ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Fideo Noodles: Add the fideo noodles to the pot and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the flavors of the broth.
- Adjust Seasoning: Remove the pot from heat, taste the soup, and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper to your preference.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and lime wedges, adding fresh and creamy elements to the dish.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, toast the fideo noodles briefly in the olive oil before adding the onions.
- Use chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Add extra chili powder or a diced jalapeño for more heat if desired.
- The avocado slices should be added just before serving to maintain their creamy texture.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
