Mouth-Watering Sopa De Fideo Recipe – Easy & Delicious!
As the days get colder and shorter, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of soup. And if you’re tired of your usual chicken noodle soup routine, I have just the recipe to spice up your dinner table. Introducing my Mexican Soup with Pasta, or Sopa de Fideo in Spanish.
This traditional Mexican noodle soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that will warm you up from the inside out. It’s made with thin pasta, typically angel hair or thin spaghetti, simmered in a tomato-based broth with garlic, onion, and serrano chili. Top it off with some sour cream, cheese, and cilantro for a burst of freshness and creaminess.
But don’t be fooled by its simple ingredients – this fideo recipe packs a punch. It’s savory, comforting, and satisfying all at once. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to your liking with different types of pasta or protein options like ground beef or chicken.
So if you’re ready to take your noodle soup game to the next level, give this Mexican fideo soup a try. Your taste buds – and belly – will thank you for it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Listen up, culinary rebels and soup lovers! I have the perfect recipe that will blow your taste buds out of the water. Introducing the one and only Mexican Soup with Pasta, aka Sopa de Fideo. Now, why should you give this recipe a try?
First of all, it’s a soup made with love and heart. This traditional Mexican noodle soup has been in families for generations and brings comfort with every slurp. Picture yourself sitting down at your family’s table with a hot bowl of fideo soup in front of you, it’s like a warm hug from your abuela (grandmother).
Secondly, this recipe is not just easy to make but budget-friendly. It’s a tomato-based soup made with simple ingredients like chopped tomatoes, garlic cloves, serrano chili, onion, chicken broth, and thin pasta like angel hair or vermicelli. You can whip up this savory goodness in less than 30 minutes.
But wait there’s more! This noodle soup is versatile; you can make substitutions and variations by adding ground beef or vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Sprinkle some cheese on top, garnish with cilantro and sour cream, and voila! You have your version.
In conclusion, this Mexican Soup with Pasta is packed with flavor and history, easy to make on a budget, and versatile enough to make it your own. So why not give it a try? Trust me; your taste buds will thank you later.
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need for this savory Mexican soup with pasta:
- Sopa de fideo (thin pasta): This is the star ingredient of this classic Mexican recipe. You can find it in the Latin section of your grocery store. Alternatively, you can use angel hair pasta or thin spaghetti.
- 1/2 onion, chopped: Onion adds depth and sweetness to this soup’s tomato-based broth.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic gives a robust flavor and aroma.
- 1 serrano chili, seeded and minced: This small but spicy chili pepper will add a delicious kick to your soup. If you prefer less heat, feel free to leave it out or use a milder pepper.
- 14 oz vegetable broth + 2 cups water: The vegetable broth provides depth of flavor while the water ensures that there is enough liquid to cook the pasta and vegetables.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) chopped tomatoes: The canned tomatoes give a lovely acidity and tanginess to the soup. Make sure to drain off any excess liquid before adding it to the pot.
- Salt: A pinch of salt brings out and enhances all the flavors of your ingredients.
- Cilantro, chopped (optional): Cilantro is a very popular herb in Mexican cuisine that adds freshness and color to your dish.
- Sour cream, shredded cheese, and/or lime wedges (optional): These toppings allow you to personalize your soup according to your taste preferences.
Don’t worry if you don’t have all these ingredients, substitutions are possible!
The Recipe How-To
Now that you’re ready to get your hands dirty, let’s talk about how to make this mexican noodle soup, step by step.
Ingredients
- 1 onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 serrano chili
- 4 oz. angel hair pasta or thin spaghetti
- (2) 14 oz. cans chopped tomatoes
- 6 cups of chicken broth or vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
- Sour cream and shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the minced onions, garlic and chili and sauté until fragrant, around 3 minutes.
- Pour chopped tomatoes into the pot and stir well with the skillet ingredients.
- Cook the mixture for around 10 minutes stirring occasionally until it thickens.
- Slowly pour in the broth while stirring to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat and then reduce heat to low, allowing it to simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add salt to taste and then break the angel hair pasta into small pieces before adding it into the pot.
- Simmer for another 8 – 10 minutes.
- Serve hot with sour cream, cheese and cilantro toppings.
Trust me, this recipe is pretty easy-to-make! I suggest that you make this soup on a busy day or on cold winter nights. Not only is this soup a good way to warm up but can also be kept for later, stored and reheated in a refrigerator making it great as leftovers.
Now that you know how to make this mexican noodle soup recipe, the next section talks about some substitutions and variations that you can try out.
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit, there are plenty of ways to modify this Mexican soup with pasta recipe. Let’s take a look at some substitutions and variations that you can try out.
1. Protein swaps: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can substitute it with ground beef or turkey. For vegetarians, you can turn this into a meatless dish by switching the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
2. Pasta variations: Fideo pasta is the traditional choice for this soup, but you can use angel hair pasta, thin spaghetti or vermicelli for a similar texture. If you want your soup to be more fun and colorful, try adding in shell pasta or alphabet pasta.
3. Spice level: Serrano chili pepper adds a good level of spiciness to this Mexican soup recipe but feel free to omit it altogether or adjust the amount depending on how spicy you prefer it.
4. Cheese & sour cream: This noodle soup is usually served with cheese and/or sour cream which adds delicious tangy flavor and creamy texture. Choose from Mexican cotija or queso fresco to make it more authentic.
5. Veggies: You can also add additional vegetables like zucchini, corn, bell peppers, and spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
6. Tomato base: While tomatoes are traditionally used to make sopa de fideo recipe, you could experiment with other base flavors such as pumpkin puree, pureed carrots or even roasted red peppers.
Don’t be afraid to make adjustments according to your taste preferences, dietary restrictions or your inner creativity. There are many possibilities when it comes to making Mexican noodle soup so have fun and enjoy the process!
Serving and Pairing
Picture yourself sitting at the table, steaming bowl of Mexican soup with pasta (sopa de fideo) in front of you. The aroma of garlic cloves, chopped tomatoes, and serrano chili bursts from the bowl as you take your first bite.
To make this soup even more delicious, consider adding toppings such as sour cream, cheese, and cilantro. The sour cream adds a creamy tanginess to the soup that balances out its bold flavors. The cheese is an excellent complement that adds both texture and flavor to the soup. And finally, some fresh chopped cilantro provides a refreshing and fragrant taste to the dish.
When it comes to pairing this Mexican noodle soup, you have several options. Since it packs quite a punch in terms of flavors and spice, consider serving it with corn tortillas or crusty bread to balance out the heat. A side salad with light vinaigrette would also provide a refreshing counterpoint.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to stay within the realm of Mexican cuisine, try serving it alongside some tamales or flank steak with chimichurri sauce. Another great option is to pair sopa de fideo with tequila-based drinks like Margaritas or Palomas for an ultimate fiesta experience.
No matter how you decide to serve this savory soup recipe sopa de fideo, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If you’re crunched for time, the good news is that this Mexican Soup with Pasta (Sopa de Fideo) is versatile and can be made-ahead to save time. You can prepare the soup base and cook the pasta separately, storing both in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the soup over medium heat and add the cooked pasta just prior to serving. Alternatively, store each component separately for up to two days so that you can reheat them separately before combining.
When it comes to storing leftover soup, make sure that it cools down to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to four days or frozen for up to six months. Thaw frozen leftovers overnight in the fridge before reheating on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
When reheating your leftover Mexican Soup with Pasta (Sopa de Fideo), add a little bit of chicken broth or water to loosen it up since it may thicken as it cools down. A tip is to taste and adjust seasonings as necessary since the flavors may intensify overnight.
One thing to be mindful of, however, is not to overcook the pasta when reheating, especially if it has already been cooked and stored separately. To avoid mushy pasta, try adding a small amount of chicken broth or hot water to thin out the soup base if needed.
Overall, this Mexican Soup with Pasta (Sopa de Fideo) is perfect for meal prep! You can easily double the recipe and make enough for a few meals in advance. Simply store leftovers correctly and reheat properly according to your preference, savoring that delicious tomato-based broth with a savory touch of garlic, onion and serrano chili filled with angel hair pasta and crunchy bites of chopped tomatoes.
Tips for Perfect Results
Now, let’s talk about some important tips to guarantee that your Sopa de Fideo will be a success.
Firstly, season well. The key to a good Sopa de Fideo is the balance of flavors. Be generous with salt and don’t forget to season each layer of the soup as you cook it. Also, taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning if necessary. It’s better to season little by little than to overdo it.
Secondly, use high-quality chicken broth. This is especially important since chicken broth is one of the main ingredients of this soup. A homemade chicken broth gives a more complex flavor and can make all the difference in the final result.
Thirdly, cook the noodles until fully soft, but not mushy. Overcooking the noodles will turn them into a sticky mess, which will compromise both the taste and texture of your soup. Test them periodically as they cook to ensure they are still firm and have resistance when bitten into.
Fourthly, consider adding toppings to enhance flavor and texture. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or fresh diced tomatoes adds freshness while grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream provides creaminess and richness.
Lastly, keep in mind that this soup gets better over time. The flavors continue to develop as it sits in its broth and sauce overnight in the fridge. The next day you will find an even richer flavor than yesterday.
Follow these tips, and your Sopa de Fideo is guaranteed to be a hit!
FAQ
As a seasoned chef with years of experience, I know that cooking can be a rollercoaster ride filled with lots of questions and challenges. To help you make the most out of this Mexican Soup With Pasta (Sopa De Fideo), I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions that I get from people who have tried this recipe. So without further ado, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details and unravel these curiosities one by one.
Is fideo Spanish or Mexican?
The term “fideo” is a Spanish word that refers to pasta in different shapes and sizes. This type of pasta is often used in various Spanish and Mexican dishes, including the famous “Pasta de Fideos.” Additionally, fideo pasta blends perfectly with vegetables and lean meats, making it a versatile ingredient in various recipes.
Why does my sopa de fideo come out mushy?
When cooking Fideo, it’s important to avoid letting the pasta get mushy. This usually happens when the soup is simmered for too long. To avoid this, it’s best to take the pasta off the heat once it’s been simmering for approximately 10 minutes or until it becomes tender.
What is fideo pasta called?
Although some might think of “fideos” as a simple translation for “noodles” in Spanish, it actually describes a specific kind of noodle: short, golden, and thin like vermicelli. This type of noodle is also a key ingredient in certain dishes.
Is fideo the same as pasta?
Have you heard of Fideo, the slender noodle popular in Mexican cuisine? This delightful noodle is akin to thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta. But fret not, if you can’t find Fideo noodles in your local grocery store, you can easily replace them with thin spaghetti or vermicelli noodles. Simply break your pasta into tiny 1-inch pieces and cook according to package instructions.
Why is it called sopa de fideo?
Sopa de fideo is a popular Tex-Mex fusion soup that is made with thin noodles known as fideos. These noodles are typically browned before being cooked in the soup with other ingredients. Fideo means noodle and is most commonly used to refer to vermicelli in plural form.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Mexican Soup with Pasta (Sopa De Fideo) recipe is a true delight for those who seek the flavor and warmth of traditional Mexican cuisine. Its tomato-based broth, yummy noodle texture, and spicy kick make it a perfect soup for chilly evenings or weeknight dinners. By following the recipe’s detailed instructions, tips, and variations, you can customize this soup to suit your palate and mood.
Remember to use fresh ingredients, such as cilantro, serrano chili, garlic cloves, and chopped tomatoes, to enhance the Sopa De Fideo’s savory taste. Adding toppings like sour cream and cheese can enrich its flavors even further.
Do not forget these Tips for Perfect Results – using thin spaghetti vermicelli or angel hair pasta can add more texture to the soup but be careful not to overcook it as it can turn into a mushy consistency. Also, storing the soup separately from the noodles can keep their texture intact.
If you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to add shell pasta or alphabet pasta for a fun twist on the traditional recipe.
Overall, savoring Sopa De Fideo can be an experience that combines history and diversity. It brings us back to feelings of warmth, comfort, and home-cooked meals. So why wait any longer to make this delicious dish? Gather your family and friends and enjoy a bowl of Mexicana-inspired goodness. Buen provecho!
Mexican Soup With Pasta (Sopa De Fideo) Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 medium onion, diced
- 1 green serrano chili, minced
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 4 ounces vermicelli
- 8 cups chicken broth
- salt, as needed
- 1/2 cup cilantro, minced
- 1 cup cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- In a food processor put the tomatoes, onion, serrano chili (optional), and garlic. Puree and set aside.
- In a dutch oven or other large soup pot put the oil. Break the vermicelli noodles into 2-3 inch lengths and add to the oil. Heat over medium heat and fry until the pasta is light brown. Flip the pasta over with a spatula for even cooking.
- Quickly stir in the pureed vegetables and stir nonstop for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add 8 cups of chicken (or vegetable) broth. Increase heat to high. Cook over high heat until the broth is boiling. Reduce heat to medium.
- Cook for 15 minutes, stirring frequently, so that the noodles don't stick to the bottom of the pot.
- Check for salt.
- Serve with garnishes of cilantro, grated cheese and sour cream.
- Variations: The last 3 minutes of cooking, you may stir in some frozen peas and/or cooked chicken pieces. If your tomatoes are not in season, use a 15 oz. can of tomatoes.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
Recommended Recipes Just For You
None found
Dora
Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.