fideo soup recipe
The Best fideo soup recipe
Health-wise, it’s a smart choice, too. The fideos are a great source of fiber and protein, and the broth is packed with vegetables that add vitamins and minerals. I make it often because it’s easy to customize—add some black beans for extra protein, swap in zucchini or bell peppers if you’re feeling adventurous, or just stick with the basics if you’re in a hurry. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a celebration, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or just a weeknight when everyone’s craving something warm and comforting. My kids always ask for seconds, and honestly, I don’t blame them—it’s that good. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep because you can make a big pot and reheat it throughout the week. No one has to worry about leftovers turning into a sad, soggy mess.
Classic Fideo Soup with Garlic Tomatoes
A comforting soup made with thin noodles, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic garlic. Perfect for a cozy meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups fideo noodles (dried)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Crumbled feta cheese
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add fideo noodles and salt, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until noodles are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside. -
2
In a saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft (5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. -
3
Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, and paprika. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 15 minutes to thicken the sauce. -
4
Add cooked fideo noodles to the saucepan. Stir gently to combine. Simmer for another 5 minutes until noodles are fully coated. -
5
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Fine-mesh strainer
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Fideo Soup with Garlic Tomatoes Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Fideo Soup with Garlic Tomatoes
How do I adjust the spice level in this fideo soup?
You can control the spice by adding or omitting the red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Start with half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes and increase gradually if you prefer a sharper kick. If you dislike heat, skip the flakes entirely or use only a pinch.
Can I substitute whole wheat fideo noodles for regular fideo?
Yes, you can, but the texture will be slightly denser. Whole wheat fideo holds up better in soups, so it may require a slightly longer cook time—about 5–7 minutes instead of 3–4. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
Use vegetable broth or even a mix of vegetable and chicken broth for a lighter flavor. If you’re avoiding broth entirely, simmer a small piece of chicken (skin-on, bone-in) in water for 20–25 minutes, then strain the liquid. For a vegetarian option, use a hearty mushroom broth or even a can of diced tomatoes with broth as a base.
How can I make this soup thicker or thinner?
For a thicker soup, simmer the noodles longer (up to 8 minutes) and strain out any excess liquid before adding the broth. To thin it, add a splash of water or broth at the end of cooking. If the soup is too thin, simmer it uncovered on low heat to evaporate some moisture.
Can I prep the fideo ahead of time?
Yes, but avoid overcooking the noodles. Parboil them for 3 minutes, drain, and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or broth before adding the rest of the soup ingredients.
