Table of Contents
Fideo is a traditional Mexican soup with noodles that features thin vermicelli noodles in a savory tomato broth. This has been a staple across Mexico and the southwest of the United States for centuries as a warming and hearty dish.
What is Fideo?
In Spanish, the word fideo, which simply means “noodle” is used to describe both the dish’s thin noodle and the soup itself. To make it distinctive from other pasta dishes, the noodles are toasted before being cooked into the broth, a staple in fideo noodles.
Historical Background
- Origins in Spanish cuisine
- Evolution in Mexican cooking
- Cultural significance in both Mexico and Texas
Types of Fideo
- Traditional vermicelli noodles
- Angel hair pasta alternatives
- Whole wheat variations
Essential Ingredients
The Noodles
- Traditional fideo noodles
- Acceptable substitutes
- Importance of quality selection
The Broth Base
- Tomatoes and their preparation
- Essential spices and seasonings
- Stock options (chicken, vegetable, beef)
Aromatics and Seasonings
- Garlic and onion fundamentals
- Traditional Mexican spices
- Optional heat elements
Cooking Techniques
Toasting the Noodles
- Proper browning methods.
- Visual cues for perfect toasting.
- Broth Preparation
Broth Preparation
- Building flavor layers
- Consistency control
- Seasoning balance
Final Assembly
- Combining components
- Timing considerations
- Texture management
Regional Variations
Mexican Style
- Traditional preparation methods
- Regional differences
- Common additions
Tex-Mex Adaptations
- American influences
- Popular modifications
- Modern interpretations
Serving and Presentation
Traditional Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Cheese options
Accompaniments
- Side dish suggestions
- Bread pairings
- Complementary beverages
Tips for Perfect Fideo
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Noodle overcooking
- Seasoning balance
- Broth consistency
Make-Ahead Options
- Storage guidelines
- Reheating methods
- Freezing possibilities
Health and Nutrition
Nutritional Benefits
- Protein content
- Fiber contribution
- Vitamin and mineral profile
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-free options
- Vegetarian adaptations
- Low-sodium variations
Conclusion
Fideo represents more than just a simple noodle soup – it’s a testimony of Mexican culinary tradition and creativity.
Regardless of whether you are looking for familiar taste or you want to expand on the Mexican cuisine, learning how to prepare this dish enables a plethora of flavor explorations.
Traditional Mexican Fideo Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz fideo noodles or thin vermicelli
- 3 medium tomatoes chopped
- 1 medium onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo optional
Instructions
- Blend tomatoes, onion, and garlic into a smooth puree.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add fideo noodles and toast until golden brown, stirring constantly (3-4 minutes).
- Remove noodles and set aside.
- In the same pot, add tomato puree and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add cumin, oregano, and bay leaves, stirring well.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add toasted noodles and reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 580mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
