Indulge in the vibrant flavors of a traditional Mexican dish with our delightful Fideo Noodle Recipe. This mouthwatering recipe showcases vermicelli noodles cooked to perfection in a rich tomato-based sauce, infused with aromatic spices. Fideo noodles are a staple in Mexican cuisine, and this recipe brings out their deliciousness in every bite. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or looking to explore new flavors, this Fideo Noodle Recipe is a must-try.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Serving: 4
- Yield: Approximately 4 cups
- Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (225g) fideo noodles
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces / 400g) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups (480ml) vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Serving dish
- Knife and cutting board
- Citrus juicer (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Toast the Fideo Noodles
- Add the fideo noodles to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and slightly toasted, about 3-4 minutes.
- Be careful not to burn the noodles as they can quickly go from golden to dark brown.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- Pour the diced tomatoes with their juices into the skillet, followed by the vegetable or chicken broth.
- Add the ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let the fideo noodles simmer in the sauce for about 10-12 minutes, or until they become tender.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Once the fideo noodles are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Transfer the fideo noodles to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
- Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of tangy flavor.
Tips and Tricks
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences.
- Feel free to add cooked vegetables like diced bell peppers or corn kernels to the fideo noodle dish for added texture and flavor.
- For a heartier version, you can add cooked shredded chicken or ground beef to the skillet when sautéing the aromatics.
- If you prefer a saucier dish, add a little more broth to the skillet before simmering the noodles.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 4g
Final Thoughts
Fideo Noodles are a true delight in Mexican cuisine, and this recipe allows you to savor their flavors with ease. The combination of toasted noodles, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic spices creates a comforting and satisfying dish that will transport your taste buds to Mexico. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a side dish, this Fideo Noodle Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
FAQ
Q1. Can I use a different type of noodle?
A1. Fideo noodles are thin, short, and vermicelli-like. However, if you can’t find them, you can substitute with thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta.
Q2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A2. Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes instead of canned. Just make sure to remove the skin and seeds before dicing.
Q3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
A3. Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and this recipe becomes vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
Q4. Can I add other vegetables or protein to the dish?
A4. Yes,you can customize this recipe by adding cooked vegetables like diced bell peppers or corn kernels for extra flavor and texture. If you’d like to add protein, you can include cooked shredded chicken or ground beef when sautéing the aromatics.
Q5. How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
A5. The level of spiciness can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder used. Feel free to taste the sauce as you go and add more chili powder if desired.
Q6. Can I make the dish ahead of time?
A6. While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the fideo noodles and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and mix it with the noodles until heated through.
Q7. What other garnishes can I use?
A7. Besides fresh cilantro or parsley, you can also garnish the fideo noodles with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco for added richness.
Q8. How should I store any leftovers?
A8. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful Fideo Noodle dish and savor the delicious taste of Mexico!
