Few dishes bring as much comfort as a warm bowl of fideo, a beloved Mexican noodle soup. With its toasty vermicelli noodles simmered in a simple tomato broth, fideo is cozy, quick, and full of nostalgia. It’s the kind of recipe that reminds many of home kitchens where love is poured into even the simplest ingredients. Best of all, it comes together with pantry staples in less than 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or when you’re craving a hug in a bowl.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soup / Comfort Food | 10 min | 25 min | 4 | ~220 kcal |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 7 ounces (about 1 small bag) fideo pasta (or broken vermicelli)
- 1 small white onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned tomato sauce)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Toast the Noodles
In a medium pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the fideo pasta and cook, stirring often, until the noodles are golden brown. Keep an eye on them—they toast quickly! - Make the Tomato Base
Add onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the chopped tomatoes (or tomato sauce) and cook another 2 minutes to deepen the flavor. - Add the Broth & Spices
Pour in the broth, then season with salt, cumin, and pepper. Stir well to combine. - Simmer Until Tender
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 10–12 minutes, or until the noodles are soft and the soup slightly thickened. - Serve & Garnish
Ladle into bowls, top with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges for a bright, zesty finish.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Noodle Watch: Toasting the pasta is key to deep flavor—aim for a golden color without burning.
- Broth Choice: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or chicken broth for richer flavor.
- Make Ahead: The soup thickens as it sits. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it up.
Recipe Variations
- Add Protein: Stir in shredded chicken, cooked ground beef, or even beans to make it heartier.
- Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes while sautéing the onions.
- Creamier Version: Swirl in a splash of cream or a spoonful of sour cream before serving for a silky finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve fideo as a light main dish with warm flour tortillas or crusty bread for dipping. It also pairs beautifully as a side alongside grilled meats, tacos, or a fresh green salad. Don’t forget an extra squeeze of lime juice before digging in—it brightens up every spoonful!
Conclusion
Fideo is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few humble ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you can have a bowl of cozy Mexican noodle soup that warms the heart and fills the belly. Share it with family, enjoy it on a quiet evening, or make it a tradition—because some recipes are too good not to pass down.