Sopa de Fideo

An authentic Sopa de Fideo recipe, you will be surprised how easy, quick, and delicious this soup is. It’s one of Mexico’s most classic soup recipes made with tomatoes, noodles, garlic, and broth. Loved by kids and adults alike, this comforting dish is perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Sopa de Fideo can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The blend of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and spices creates a rich and savory flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Versatile: Serve it as a starter or as a main dish; it pairs well with various toppings such as avocado or cheese.
• Nutritious: Packed with essential nutrients from the ingredients like tomatoes and herbs, this soup is both delicious and healthy.
• Kid-Friendly: Its mild flavor makes it appealing to children while still being enjoyable for adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Sopa de Fideo, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Soup pot (at least 4 quarts)
• Blender
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Soup pot: A large pot allows the soup to simmer evenly without spilling over.
• Blender: Essential for creating a smooth tomato base that enhances the soup’s texture.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring even cooking.

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Ingredients

For the Tomato Base

• 1 (28-ounce) can whole tomatoes
• 1/4 cup + 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh Mexican oregano (or Mediterranean oregano), chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

For the Soup

• 1 (7-ounce) package cut fideo pasta
• 1 quart chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro

How to Make Sopa de Fideo

Step 1: Make Tomato Base

Combine the canned whole tomatoes, 1/4 of the olive oil, garlic cloves, chopped oregano, salt, and cumin in a blender. Blend on high until smooth.

Step 2: Toast Noodles

Heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the fideo pasta and toast it by stirring frequently until golden brown—this should take about 4 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer

Once the noodles are toasted, pour in the blended tomato base. Fry it in the oil for about one or two minutes until fragrant. Then add the chicken or vegetable broth and bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked through—approximately 5 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving. Your Sopa de Fideo is now ready to enjoy! Serve hot with your favorite toppings if desired.

How to Serve Sopa de Fideo

Sopa de Fideo is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. From garnishes to accompaniments, these serving suggestions will elevate your soup experience.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an aromatic touch.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for a zesty burst of flavor.
• Avocado Slices: Add creamy avocado slices for richness and texture.

Accompaniments

• Corn Tortillas: Warm corn tortillas are perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Crushed Tortilla Chips: Add crunch by sprinkling crushed tortilla chips over the soup.
• Sour Cream or Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt adds creaminess and balances flavors.

Additional Serving Suggestions

• Grated Cheese: Top with crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese for added richness.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like heat, offer a selection of hot sauces on the side.

How to Perfect Sopa de Fideo

To achieve the best Sopa de Fideo, keep these tips in mind. They will help ensure your soup is flavorful and satisfying.

• Bold Flavors: Use ripe tomatoes for a sweeter and richer tomato base.
• Toast Noodles Properly: Ensure fideo is toasted until golden for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, cumin, and oregano according to your preference before serving.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro not only adds flavor but also a beautiful color contrast.
• Broth Quality Matters: Opt for high-quality chicken or vegetable broth for a deeper taste.

Best Side Dishes for Sopa de Fideo

Pairing Sopa de Fideo with complementary side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Mexican Rice: This flavorful rice dish complements the soup well and adds heartiness.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and pair nicely with the flavors of the soup.
3. Guacamole: Fresh guacamole adds creaminess and richness to balance the soup’s acidity.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables make a vibrant addition.
5. Chiles Rellenos: These cheese-stuffed peppers bring an extra layer of flavor to your meal.
6. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn topped with cheese and spices offers a sweet complement to the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sopa de Fideo can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Using low-quality tomatoes: Ensure you use good quality canned or fresh tomatoes for a flavorful base. Poor quality tomatoes can lead to a bland soup.
• Not toasting the fideo properly: Toasting the noodles enhances their flavor and texture. Skipping this step can result in a less satisfying dish.
• Skipping the simmering step: Allowing the soup to simmer lets flavors meld together. Rushing this process will yield a less flavorful Sopa de Fideo.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long makes it mushy. Follow the recommended cooking time for perfect noodles.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Fresh cilantro adds brightness and depth. Neglecting garnishes can leave your soup feeling incomplete.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Sopa de Fideo in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sopa de Fideo

• Portion out the soup into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Sopa de Fideo

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sopa de Fideo?

Sopa de Fideo is a traditional Mexican noodle soup made with tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and fideo pasta. It’s comforting and easy to prepare.

Can I make Sopa de Fideo vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version of Sopa de Fideo.

How do I add more flavor to my Sopa de Fideo?

You can enhance flavor by adding extra spices like chili powder or smoked paprika. Fresh lime juice also brightens up the dish.

Can I customize my Sopa de Fideo?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or include protein such as shredded chicken or beans for added nutrition.

How long does it take to make Sopa de Fideo?

This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy meal option any day of the week.

Final Thoughts

Sopa de Fideo is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. With its comforting flavors and customizable ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or proteins to make it your own!