Noodle Soup

Cooking Time and Servings

This delightful recipe serves 6 people and takes approximately 30 minutes from prep to table.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe plum tomatoes, cored and quartered
• 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 2 large cloves of garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
• 8 cups vegetable broth or water, separated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 ounces uncooked fideo pasta
• 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon granules
• 1 dried bay leaf
• Kosher salt, to taste
• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco, divided
• For serving: Mexican crema, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, lime wedges, and warm tortillas

Preparation Steps

Begin by blending the tomatoes, onion, garlic, oregano, and 1/2 cup of vegetable broth until you achieve a smooth consistency, approximately 1 minute. Set the mixture aside.

In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the fideo pasta and sauté, stirring frequently, until the pasta turns a beautiful golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, incorporate the reserved tomato blend, letting it simmer undisturbed for 2 minutes.

Pour in the remaining 7.5 cups of vegetable broth and bring everything to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat. Mix in the chicken bouillon and the bay leaf. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium and let it simmer until the pasta becomes tender but not mushy, about 3 to 4 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with kosher salt to taste.

To serve, place 4 teaspoons of queso fresco at the bottom of each bowl and ladle the flavorful soup on top. Enjoy it with a swirl of crema, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, lime wedges, and warm tortillas for the perfect finishing touch.

What is Sopa de Fideos?

Sopa de fideos is a delicious, tomato-based soup enriched with onions and short, thin noodles known as fideos. This traditional dish is widely enjoyed in Mexico, Spain, and some regions of the Philippines.

Understanding Chicken Bouillon vs. Chicken Stock

Chicken bouillon is a concentrated form of chicken stock, created from dehydrated stock and seasonings, and sometimes contains MSG, offering an intense flavor boost. In contrast, chicken stock is typically made by simmering chicken bones with water and vegetables, resulting in a richer broth.

Where to Find Fideo Noodles

Fideo noodles can typically be found in the pasta aisle of most supermarkets or at specialized Mexican grocery stores. If unavailable, you can substitute with broken angel hair pasta to achieve a similar texture.

Perfect Pairing and Storage

For a refreshing complement, serve this hearty soup alongside a crisp Mexican lager like Pacifico, garnished with lime. To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding toppings just before serving for the best experience.