If you crave a cozy, comforting bowl of warmth that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Sopa de Fideo Recipe is exactly what you need. This traditional Mexican noodle soup is a deliciously simple combination of toasted vermicelli noodles simmered in a rich tomato broth, bursting with fresh flavors and a touch of spice. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just beginning, this recipe turns humble ingredients into a soul-satisfying meal that’s fast, flavorful, and wonderfully easy to make any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Sopa de Fideo Recipe has been carefully chosen to create a perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the toasty fideo noodles adding a crispy nutty note to the aromatic onions and garlic, every component works harmoniously to build a vibrant and comforting soup.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Essential for toasting the noodles evenly to bring out their nutty flavor.
- 1 cup fideo noodles (or vermicelli pasta): These thin noodles cook quickly and soak up the savory tomato broth beautifully.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup’s base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts that classic, fragrant warmth to every spoonful.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (or 2 medium fresh tomatoes, blended): Provides a fresh, tangy backbone that makes the broth bright and inviting.
- 1 (4 oz) can tomato sauce: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version): The soul of the soup, creating a deeply savory, comforting base.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Delivers a warm, earthy flavor that complements the tomato and noodles perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a mild heat): Adds a subtle kick that awakens the palate without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances the taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a herbaceous touch that rounds out the soup’s character.
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish): Provides a refreshing, bright finish.
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional, for serving): Adds a zingy, citrusy pop that makes each spoonful sing.
How to Make Sopa de Fideo Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Fideo Noodles
Start by heating your vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Then, add the fideo noodles and toast them, stirring constantly for about 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll want them to turn a beautiful golden brown but be careful—keep your eye on them to avoid burning. This step is crucial because it deepens the flavor and adds a lovely nutty aroma that really makes this soup stand out.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Once your noodles are perfectly toasted, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. This not only softens them but also infuses the oil with savory richness that will flavor every bite of the soup.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes (or freshly blended tomatoes) along with the tomato sauce. Let this mixture cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to release their liquid and blend seamlessly with your savory aromatics and noodles. This melding of flavors creates a beautiful, robust base for the soup.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in your cumin, chili powder if you like a bit of heat, salt, pepper, and oregano. Bring everything up to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to let it simmer gently. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes until the noodles are tender and perfectly cooked through, soaking up all those deep, savory tomato flavors.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve
Before serving, give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Then ladle it into bowls and get ready for the finishing touches that truly elevate this recipe.
How to Serve Sopa de Fideo Recipe
Garnishes
The secret to turning a simple bowl of soup into a special treat is in the little garnishes. Freshly chopped cilantro sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness, while a squeeze of lime juice provides a lively, citrusy pop that balances the hearty tomato broth perfectly.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or homemade corn tortillas for dipping. You can also serve it with a side of refried beans or a simple green salad to round out your meal without overshadowing the soup’s delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Sopa de Fideo Recipe in small, individual bowls topped with crunchy tortilla strips or a dollop of sour cream. Adding avocado slices or a sprinkle of queso fresco makes it feel a little more festive and extra comforting on cool evenings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover sopa de fideo in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect quick lunch or dinner option for busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but be mindful that the noodles might soften more than when freshly cooked. Freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your sopa de fideo on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of broth or water if the soup seems too thick. Avoid microwaving as it can make the noodles mushy, but it works in a pinch if you watch the time closely.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you have a delicious vegetarian version of this classic soup without sacrificing any of the incredible flavors.
Is it okay to use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes are wonderful for this recipe. Just blend or finely chop them to create a smooth texture that mimics canned diced tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes add an even brighter, fresher flavor to the soup.
What are fideo noodles, and can I substitute them?
Fideo noodles are thin, short vermicelli-style pasta commonly used in Mexican cooking. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with broken spaghetti or angel hair pasta broken into small pieces.
How spicy is this soup?
The chili powder is optional and used sparingly to add just a hint of warmth. You can leave it out for a milder soup or increase it slightly if you prefer more heat.
Can I double this recipe?
Definitely! This Sopa de Fideo Recipe scales up nicely, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prep. Just be sure to use a larger pot and adjust cooking times as needed.
Final Thoughts
Making this Sopa de Fideo Recipe feels like welcoming a bit of warmth and tradition into your kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly comforting. I hope you enjoy cooking it as much as I do sharing it with you—grab those noodles and let’s make some magic happen in your soup pot!
Print
Sopa de Fideo Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sopa de Fideo is a classic Mexican noodle soup featuring toasted vermicelli noodles simmered in a flavorful tomato-based broth infused with cumin, garlic, and onion. This comforting and easy-to-make dish serves as a perfect starter or light meal, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime for brightness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup fideo noodles (or vermicelli pasta)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (or 2 medium fresh tomatoes, blended)
- 1 (4 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a mild heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the Fideo: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or saucepan over medium heat. Add the fideo noodles and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown. Be careful not to burn them.
- Cook the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onions are softened and translucent.
- Add the Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes (or blended fresh tomatoes) and the tomato sauce to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to release their juices and meld with the other ingredients.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Noodles: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve the sopa de fideo hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Fideo noodles can be replaced with vermicelli pasta if unavailable.
- Adding chili powder is optional and can be adjusted based on your desired spice level.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
- Make sure not to burn the noodles when toasting; stir constantly.
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges truly enhance the flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
