Ever had one of those days where you just need a bowl of something warm, comforting, and downright delicious? Enter Sopa de Fideo—a humble yet flavorful Mexican noodle soup that’s been a staple in households for generations.
Think of it as the Mexican cousin of chicken noodle soup, but with a twist. Instead of long, slurpy noodles, it’s made with fideos—short, thin noodles that are toasted to perfection and simmered in a rich tomato broth. It’s simple, it’s satisfying, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a game-changer. Let’s dive into why Sopa de Fideo deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation.
What is Sopa de Fideo?
Sopa de Fideo is a traditional Mexican soup made with fideos—a type of thin, short noodle that’s similar to vermicelli. The noodles are toasted until golden brown, then simmered in a flavorful tomato-based broth. It’s often garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado, or a sprinkle of cotija cheese for an extra layer of yum.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can add veggies, protein, or even switch up the noodles if you’re feeling adventurous.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this soup takes about 30 minutes to make. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something fast but don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
- Family-Friendly: Picky eaters? No problem. The mild, comforting flavors of Sopa de Fideo are a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, swap the broth for a vegetarian option, or toss in some shredded chicken for extra protein. The possibilities are endless.
- Comfort in a Bowl: There’s something about the combination of toasted noodles and savory broth that feels like a warm hug.
Sopa de Fideo
Ingredients
- 8 oz fideos or substitute with broken spaghetti
- 1 can 14.5 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion quartered
- 2 cloves garlic
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 chicken bouillon cube optional
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro lime wedges, and avocado for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Blend the Base
- In a blender, combine the tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, and 1 cup of broth. Blend until smooth, then strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any solids.
- Step 2: Toast the Fideos
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the fideos and toast them for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown. This step is key—it adds a nutty, rich flavor to the soup.
- Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Pour the blended tomato mixture into the pot with the toasted noodles. Let it cook for 5 minutes, then add the remaining broth, bouillon cube (if using), and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and avocado slices. Don’t forget a sprinkle of cotija cheese for that extra touch of authenticity!
Notes
Images Credit: Isabel Eats
Tips and Variations
- Add Veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Switch Up the Noodles: Can’t find fideos? Use broken spaghetti, orzo, or even alphabet noodles for a fun twist.
- Make It Heartier: Add shredded chicken, ground beef, or beans for a protein boost.
- Spice It Up: Throw in a diced jalapeño or a dash of chili powder for a little heat.
Why Sopa de Fideo is More Than Just Soup
Sopa de Fideo isn’t just a meal—it’s a memory. For many, it’s the taste of childhood, of family gatherings, and of home. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether you’re sharing it at the dinner table or enjoying it solo on a rainy day.
And let’s be honest, in a world full of complicated recipes and endless ingredient lists, there’s something refreshing about a dish that’s both simple and soul-satisfying.
Final Thoughts: Give It a Try!
If you’ve never made Sopa de Fideo before, now’s the time. It’s easy, it’s delicious, and it’s the kind of meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce a little Mexican flair to your cooking repertoire.So, grab your pot, toast those fideos, and get ready to fall in love with this classic comfort food. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Have you tried Sopa de Fideo before? What’s your favorite way to enjoy it? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
Looking for More Easy Mexican-inspired Recipes?
Here are some must-try recipes that bring authentic Mexican vibes to your kitchen:
- Milanesa de Pollo: Crispy Breaded Chicken
- Arroz con Leche (Mexican Rice Pudding)
- Bean and Cheese Burrito
- Baked Chicken Tacos
- Mexican Rice in a Rice Cooker
- Mexican Green Spaghetti Recipe
- Sanditas Mexican Cookie Recipe
- Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Sopa de Letras: Mexican Alphabet Soup
Give these recipes a try and bring the vibrant taste of Mexico to your table!
Tried This Recipe?
I’d love to hear how this Sopa de Fideo, Mexican noodle soup turned out! Leave a comment or tag @foodiecreator on Instagram, and #foodiecreator on social media to show off your creation.
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