Sopa De Fideo Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Before we dive into the warm embrace of sopa de fideo, let’s chat about what pairs well with this comforting dish.

You could serve it alongside crispy tortilla chips—perfect for scooping up every last drop. Consider some homemade guacamole. It’s creamy, zesty, and the best companion for those sultry afternoons. 

And if you want to elevate the experience, a refreshing cucumber salad adds a nice crunch that complements the soup’s textures beautifully. As a bonus, squeeze in lime on top of everything; the citrus lifts flavors remarkably.

Now, grab your favorite spoon, and let’s explore the delightful world of sopa de fideo.

Imagine a rainy day, wrapped in a cozy blanket, with a bowl of vibrant, steaming soup in your hands. It’s nutritious yet simple, a hug in a bowl. Sopa de fideo is more than just a meal; it’s a cherished memory for many, a dish that crosses generations. 

Crafted from delicate strands of pasta, simmered in a rich broth and bright tomatoes, this recipe embodies comfort at its finest.

Born out of Mexican cuisine, sopa de fideo has its roots embedded deep in cultural traditions, but it has evolved into something that can be adapted to any kitchen. Whether it’s a cold winter night or a busy weeknight dinner, this recipe brings warmth to our tables.

You Might Also Like These Recipes!

• Sesame Soba Noodles Recipe
• Crispy Fried Wonton
• Short Rib Soup

What is Sopa de Fideo?

At its core, sopa de fideo consists of fideo pasta, often referred to as vermicelli, floating in a savory broth. The beauty lies in its simplicity. The base typically involves a delicious vegetable broth infused with tomatoes, onion, and a hint of garlic. 

The dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro and fresh lime, which adds brightness to every spoonful.

In varying regions, you’ll find diverse iterations of this soup. From adding chilies to improvising with different vegetables, this dish is versatile, inviting creativity while respecting its traditional roots.

Why This Recipe Works?

This recipe strikes a perfect balance between nutrition and taste. The use of simple ingredients ensures that anyone can whip this up without seeking out exotic items. 

The vegetable broth forms a savory canvas, allowing the fresh tomatoes and spices to shine.

The angel hair pasta, once tossed into the broth, soaks in flavors, creating a comforting texture. Plus, using whole wheat thin spaghetti provides a wholesome touch that keeps you satisfied for longer.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

To prepare a delightful sopa de fideo, gather these ingredients:

• 10 cups Vegetable broth
• ½ White onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp. Cooking oil
• 3 Garlic cloves, smashed and peeled
• 8 oz. Angel hair pasta or whole wheat thin spaghetti, snapped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can Fire-roasted diced tomatoes or 2 cups of ripe, fresh chopped tomatoes
• 1 Mexican zucchini (calabacita), chopped into small cubes
• ½ tsp. Smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp. Fresh cilantro
• 1 Lime, sliced into wedges

How to Make Sopa de Fideo?

Whipping up sopa de fideo is a breeze. You’ll not only enjoy cooking it but also relish the delightful aromas filling your kitchen. Buckle up for the step-by-step guide ahead!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you put on your apron, make sure you have all the ingredients in one place. Having everything prepped saves headaches later on.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large pot, over medium heat, pour the cooking oil. Once it warms up, toss in the chopped onion. You want to sauté this until it turns translucent, a nice 3-5 minutes should do it.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Next, introduce the smashed garlic cloves. They’ll only need about a minute to infuse the oil with their beautiful flavor. Be cautious not to burn it; we want all that deliciousness, not bitterness.

Step 4: Toss in the Tomatoes

Time to work some magic! Add your diced tomatoes and let them simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This allows them to break down and create a lovely sauce. 

Stir occasionally because who wants food sticking to the bottom of the pot?

Step 5: Add the Zucchini and Broth

Now, pour in the vegetable broth and add the chopped zucchini. This is your foundation, so give it a good stir.

Step 6: Introduce the Pasta

Once your broth is happily bubbling, it’s time for the pasta. Add in the angel hair or whole wheat thin spaghetti. It’s the star of this show!

Step 7: Spice It Up

Sprinkle the smoked paprika into the mix. It’ll add a lovely depth and a hint of smoke to your soup. Let it cook until the pasta is tender. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes.

Step 8: Final Touches

Once done, remove the pot from heat. Give it a taste, see if it needs a pinch of salt or pepper. Top it off with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Tips for Making the Best Sopa de Fideo

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The taste of fresh tomatoes and veggies dramatically improves the flavor.
  
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some chopped jalapeños or other spices for a kick.
  
• Broth Matters: A good quality vegetable broth can elevate your soup.
  
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta. You want it tender, not mushy.
  
• Let it Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This enhances the flavors.
  

How to Store Leftovers?

If you find yourself with leftovers (or perhaps you’re meal prepping), store your soup in an airtight container. It’ll last in the fridge for about 3-5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just leave the pasta out if you can—frozen pasta can become mushy when reheated.

Nutrition Information

Sopa De Fideo Nutrition Facts

How Would I Recommend Serving Sopa de Fideo?

1. With a Side of Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips complement the smooth soup perfectly. Dip them in or enjoy them on the side.
   
2. Top with Avocado: A few slices of creamy avocado add a luxurious texture and healthy fats to your dish.
   
3. Sprinkle of Cheese: A handful of crumbled queso fresco or a sprinkle of shredded cheese works wonders. It brings an added creaminess.
   
4. Fresh Herbs: A mix of cilantro and diced green onions provides freshness. The more, the merrier!
   

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?

• Vegetable Broth: Use chicken broth or water combined with bouillon for an alternative base.
  
• Angel Hair Pasta: Spaghetti or even rice noodles could work if you’re in a bind.
  
• Mexican Zucchini (Calabacita): Regular zucchini or yellow squash can easily substitute without altering the taste.
  
• Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Plain canned tomatoes work, but consider adding a little smoked paprika for that extra depth.
  

Conclusion

Creating a delicious bowl of sopa de fideo is not just about following a recipe; it’s about embracing the experience. 

The simplicity of the ingredients allows for creativity. This dish can remind you of home, even if you’re miles away. You’ve got the power to customize it according to your tastes, and I encourage you to do so.

So the next rainy day or chilly evening, reach for a pot and give this recipe a try. You might just find your new favorite comforting dish. And don’t forget to make enough to share; it feels fantastic to serve something homemade, especially when it’s as heartwarming as sopa de fideo. Enjoy!

You Might Also Like These Latest Recipes!

• Ginger Snap Treats
• Crispy Fried Wonton
• Short Rib Soup