Authentic Sopa De Fideo Recipe

This fideo soup recipe is my go-to comfort food because it’s both nostalgic and incredibly flavorful, combining the perfect acidity of tomatoes with the warmth of cumin and the freshness of cilantro. Plus, it’s super easy to make and works wonders on a chilly day or when I need something cozy yet satisfying in my life.

I adore how such a simple bowl of Sopa de Fideo can radiate such warmth and comfort. My authentic recipe for the soup bursts with flavor from toasted fideo noodles, a base of finely chopped onion and garlic, and simmered chicken broth.

Diced tomatoes, cumin, and oh-so-slightly old salt and pepper give it a little messy Modernist flair. I garnish with freshly chopped cilantro (do you love it or hate it?

I think it’s a delicious part of the soup) and a squeeze of lime. This is the soup of my dreams.

Authentic Sopa De Fideo Recipe Ingredients

• Fideo Noodles: These are thin pasta noodles, rich in carbohydrates, providing energy.
• Onion: Adds pungency and slight sweetness; good source of vitamin C and fiber.
• Garlic: Provides a robust, aromatic flavor; known for its immune-boosting properties.
• Chicken Broth: Enhances savory depth; contains protein and beneficial minerals.
• Diced Tomatoes: Offers tangy brightness; packed with vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene.
• Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness; may aid digestion and boost immunity.

Authentic Sopa De Fideo Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 8 ounces fideo noodles (or thin vermicelli pasta)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
• Optional: Lime wedges for serving

How to Make this Authentic Sopa De Fideo Recipe

1. In a big vessel, warm the vegetable oil on a medium flame.

2. Put the fideo noodles in the pot and stir continuously until they are golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.

3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another 2 minutes until the onion is translucent.

4. Mix in the tomatoes that have been diced and are in their juice, making sure that the noodles are completely covered.

5. Sprinkle the ground cumin, salt, and black pepper in and stir to combine the spices with the noodles and tomatoes.

6. Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

7. After it has reached the boiling point, cut the heat back to low and allow the soup to continue simmering, still uncovered, for about 10-12 minutes. You want to keep at a gentle simmer, not a bubbling boil, and you want the lid to be off so that the soup can reduce somewhat and concentrate its flavors.

8. Adjust the seasoning of the soup, if necessary, by adding salt or pepper.

9. Take it off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes so that the flavors can come together.

10. Serve it steaming. Add fresh cilantro, and if you like a bit of a twang, give it a squeeze of lime.

Authentic Sopa De Fideo Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot or vessel
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Cutting board
4. Sharp knife
5. Measuring spoons
6. Can opener
7. Optional: Citrus juicer or squeezer (if adding lime juice)

FAQ

• What are fideo noodles and can I substitute them?Fideo noodles, which is very close to pasta, are thin Mexican noodles similar to vermicelli. When you cannot find fideo, thin vermicelli pasta is a good substitute.
• Can I make this soup vegetarian?Indeed, opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to render it vegetarian.
• Can I add more vegetables to this soup?Of course! The flavor and nutrition get upped with add-ins like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• How do I store leftovers?Cool the soup, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
• Is this soup spicy?By default, the soup is not spicy, but you can introduce some heat by adding sliced jalapeños or chili powder.
• Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?Indeed, when substituting canned tomatoes, use approximately two cups of fresh tomatoes that have been peeled and diced.

Authentic Sopa De Fideo Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Fideo noodles: Use angel hair pasta or thin spaghetti broken into small pieces as a substitute.
Olive oil or canola oil can be used instead of vegetable oil.
Broth from chicken: When a recipe calls for chicken broth, use beef broth or mushroom broth for a flavor that’s totally different from what you’d get if you followed the recipe.
Diced canned tomatoes: Use fresh tomatoes, chopped (about 2 cups), instead.
Ground cumin: Swap in smoked paprika for a completely different flavor profile.

Pro Tips

1. Toast the Noodles Evenly Stir continuously and watch carefully as you brown the fideo noodles in the vegetable oil. Achieving a consistent golden brown color will enhance the nutty flavor and add depth to the dish.

2. Enhance with Fresh Aromatics Consider adding a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg or a dash of smoked paprika along with the cumin for an extra layer of flavor.

3. Richen the Broth Before adding the chicken or vegetable broth, deglaze the pot with a splash of white wine or dry sherry after sautéing the onions and garlic. This will elevate the dish with a subtle yet complex undertone.

4. Adjust the Thickness If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth by half a cup and let the soup simmer a bit longer. Alternatively, you can blend a part of the soup with an immersion blender for a thicker consistency before serving.

5. Experiment with Toppings Try adding a variety of garnishes such as crumbled queso fresco, sliced avocado, or a sprinkle of toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) for additional texture and flavor.