Sopa de Fideo

An authentic Sopa de Fideo recipe awaits you, blending simplicity and rich flavors into a delightful dish. This beloved Mexican soup, made with tomatoes and noodles, is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Its vibrant taste and comforting warmth make it suitable for various occasions, from casual weeknight meals to festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Sopa de Fideo comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Flavorful Base: The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and spices creates a rich and satisfying broth.
• Kid-Friendly: With its mild taste and fun noodles, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, this soup is both nourishing and delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Sopa de Fideo effectively, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you achieve the best results in terms of flavor and presentation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: A blender ensures that your tomato base is smooth and well-mixed, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
• Soup pot: A large pot allows you to toast the noodles evenly while providing ample space for simmering the soup.
• Wooden spoon: Using a wooden spoon helps prevent scratching your pots while stirring ingredients effectively.

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

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

Step 2: Toast Noodles

1. Heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add the fideo pasta and toast, stirring frequently until golden brown, about 4 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer

1. Pour in your prepared tomato base into the pot with toasted noodles.
2. Fry in the oil for a minute or two before adding your choice of chicken broth or vegetable broth.
3. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer until pasta is cooked through, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

1. Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving for added freshness.
2. Ladle into bowls and enjoy your warm bowl of Sopa de Fideo!

How to Serve Sopa de Fideo

Sopa de Fideo is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to elevate its flavors and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Avocado

• Slice ripe avocados and place them on top of the soup just before serving. The creamy texture complements the soup beautifully.

Garnished with Lime Wedges

• Serve lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Squeezing fresh lime juice over the soup adds brightness to each bowl.

Accompanied by Tortilla Chips

• Offer a side of crispy tortilla chips for added crunch. They are perfect for dipping or crumbling into the soup.

Topped with Shredded Cheese

• Sprinkle shredded cheese, like Monterey Jack or queso fresco, over the hot soup. It melts slightly, creating a rich flavor contrast.

With Chopped Green Onions

• Add chopped green onions as a fresh garnish. Their mild onion flavor provides an extra layer of taste to each serving.

Served with a Side Salad

• Pair Sopa de Fideo with a light salad made from mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing balance.

How to Perfect Sopa de Fideo

Creating an authentic Sopa de Fideo is easy when you follow these tips for perfection. Each step enhances flavor and texture, making your soup irresistible.

• Use quality tomatoes: Opt for whole canned tomatoes that are ripe and flavorful. This will enrich the base of your soup.
• Toast the noodles carefully: Ensure you toast the fideo pasta until golden brown; this enhances its nutty flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your broth before adding salt. Different brands of broth vary in sodium levels, so adjust according to your preference.
• Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, consider adding diced carrots or zucchini during the simmering stage for colorful and healthy additions.
• Use fresh herbs: Incorporating fresh cilantro at the end brings vibrant flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Let it sit: Allowing the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Sopa de Fideo

Sopa de Fideo pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its flavors. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad
   A vibrant mix of corn, lime, cilantro, and cheese that adds sweetness and crunch alongside your soup.
2. Guacamole
   Creamy avocado dip seasoned with lime and salt is perfect for scooping up with tortilla chips or enjoyed alongside the soup.
3. Pico de Gallo
   A fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños that adds freshness and spice to your meal.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Fluffy rice tossed with lime juice and fresh cilantro serves as a great base or side dish that complements the flavors of Sopa de Fideo.
5. Chiles Rellenos
   Stuffed peppers filled with cheese or vegetables offer hearty satisfaction alongside your light soup choice.
6. Black Bean Tacos
   Simple tacos filled with seasoned black beans bring protein and flavor that pair nicely with Sopa de Fideo’s rich broth.
7. Zucchini Fritters
   Crispy fritters made from grated zucchini add texture and taste while being light enough not to overshadow the soup’s delicate flavors.
8. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds depth to your meal while keeping it healthy and colorful on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sopa de Fideo, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Using canned tomatoes without draining: Always drain your canned tomatoes before blending. This helps achieve a smoother consistency and prevents excess liquid in your soup.
• Overtoasting the noodles: Toast the fideo pasta just until golden brown. If you overdo it, the noodles can become too crunchy and lose their texture in the soup.
• Neglecting to adjust seasoning: Taste your broth before serving. Adding more salt or spices can enhance the flavor of your Sopa de Fideo.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro adds vibrant flavor to your soup. Don’t skip this step, as it elevates the dish significantly.
• Not simmering long enough: Ensure you allow enough time for the pasta to cook through. Simmer for about 5 minutes to achieve the perfect tenderness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Sopa de Fideo

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sopa de Fideo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until simmering, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Sopa de Fideo that may help you prepare this delicious dish.

What is Sopa de Fideo?

Sopa de Fideo is a traditional Mexican noodle soup made with tomatoes, garlic, broth, and fideo pasta. It’s quick to make and comforting.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes! You can use vegetable broth for a lighter version of Sopa de Fideo while still keeping it flavorful.

How can I customize my Sopa de Fideo?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or zucchini. You can also incorporate proteins such as shredded chicken or turkey for added nutrition.

Is Sopa de Fideo healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is low in calories and packed with nutrients from tomatoes and herbs, making it a wholesome meal choice.

Can I make Sopa de Fideo ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it great for meal prep or easy weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

Sopa de Fideo is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Its comforting flavors make it a perfect addition to any dinner table. Experiment with different ingredients or toppings to make this dish your own!