Description
Fideo Mexican Noodle Soup is a comforting, savory dish featuring toasted vermicelli noodles simmered in a flavorful chicken broth with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and cumin. This traditional Mexican soup is quick to prepare and perfect for a warm, satisfying meal, garnished with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and optional toppings like avocado and queso fresco.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 7 ounces fideo pasta (or vermicelli noodles)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges for serving
Optional Toppings
- Avocado slices
- Diced jalapeños
- Crumbled queso fresco
Instructions
- Toast the Pasta: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the fideo pasta and stir constantly until golden brown, being careful not to burn it. This step enhances the flavor of the noodles.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the toasted pasta. Cook for about 2 minutes until the onion becomes translucent, releasing its aroma and sweetness into the dish.
- Add Tomato: Stir in the chopped tomato and cook for another 2 minutes until the tomato starts to break down, creating a rich base for the soup.
- Add Broth and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth and add the ground cumin. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Soup: Increase heat to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the flavors.
- Season: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired to enhance the flavors.
- Add Cilantro: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro for a fresh, herbal finish.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with lime wedges and optional toppings such as avocado slices, diced jalapeños, or crumbled queso fresco to add texture and complementary flavors.
Notes
- Toast the pasta carefully on medium heat to ensure it turns golden and not burnt for a richer flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Adjust spiciness by controlling the amount of jalapeños or omitting them.
- Use fresh lime wedges to add a bright citrus kick before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.