Authentic Sopa de Fideos: The Ultimate Mexican Noodle Soup Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and flavor to any meal. This incredible Mexican Noodle Soup, known as Sopa de Fideos, is my cherished rendition of a timeless classic. It’s a simple yet profoundly satisfying dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right into your kitchen. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can whip up this delightful fideo soup with just a handful of fresh and flavorful ingredients. This comforting recipe often reminds me of other beloved warm bowls, like our Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup, but with its own distinct and zesty Mexican flair that truly makes it stand out. Both of these soups have definitely earned a permanent spot on my list of all-time favorites!
Sopa de Fideos: A Heartwarming Mexican Noodle Soup
My love for Mexican food runs deep. The aromatic spices, the fresh ingredients, and the incredible depth of flavor in every dish are simply captivating. Every visit to an authentic Mexican restaurant often begins with a small, inviting cup of Sopa de Fideos, a traditional Mexican noodle soup, served as a delightful appetizer. This humble soup, brimming with rich tomato and chicken broth, tender noodles, and a hint of fresh cilantro, sets the perfect tone for the meal to come. It’s a taste of home, a comforting embrace that speaks volumes about the warmth of Mexican culinary traditions. This recipe captures that authentic experience, allowing you to recreate that wonderful, soul-soothing soup in your own home.
Sopa de Fideos is more than just a soup; it’s a staple in Mexican households, a dish passed down through generations. It’s often the first soup many Mexican children learn to love, cherished for its simplicity and comforting qualities. Whether you’re seeking a light appetizer, a soothing lunch when you’re feeling under the weather, or a delightful side dish for your Mexican feast, this fideo soup delivers on all fronts. Its rich, savory broth and perfectly cooked noodles make it an irresistible choice for any occasion.
Essential Tips for Making Perfect Sopa de Fideos
Crafting the perfect Sopa de Fideos is quite straightforward, but a few key insights can elevate your soup from good to absolutely outstanding. Pay attention to these tips to ensure your Mexican noodle soup is as authentic and delicious as possible:
- Choosing Your Noodles: The star of this dish is the fideo, which is simply the Spanish word for “noodle.” You can typically find small packages of fideo noodles in the ethnic or international aisle of most grocery stores. They are thin, short, and quick-cooking. If fideo noodles aren’t available, don’t fret! Thin spaghetti noodles or even angel hair pasta make an excellent substitute. Just be sure to break them into smaller pieces, roughly an inch or two long, before cooking. This ensures they’re easy to spoon and meld perfectly with the broth.
- Tomato Selection for Rich Flavor: While any brand of diced canned tomatoes will work wonderfully, I highly recommend opting for a fire-roasted variety for this recipe. The subtle smokiness from fire-roasted tomatoes adds an incredible depth and complexity to the soup’s base, enhancing its overall Mexican flavor profile. If you prefer a milder taste, regular diced tomatoes are perfectly fine.
- Broth Options: This recipe utilizes convenient canned or boxed chicken broth, which provides a flavorful and easy base. However, many traditional families in Mexico often use water and chicken bouillon to achieve a rich taste. The Knorr brand is a popular choice for bouillon. Feel free to use your preferred brand, or if you have homemade chicken stock on hand, that’s even better! For homemade stock, use approximately 6 cups to achieve the desired consistency and flavor.
- The Unmissable Cilantro: Seriously, do not skip the fresh cilantro in this recipe. Its bright, citrusy, and slightly peppery flavor is absolutely essential to the authentic taste of Sopa de Fideos. Without it, the soup simply wouldn’t be the same. A fresh bunch of cilantro is usually very affordable at your local grocer. If you have extra, you can easily use it to make fresh salsa or chop and freeze it in ice cube trays with a little water for future use in other dishes.
- Kitchen Equipment: While you don’t necessarily need specialized equipment, a good blender is incredibly helpful for achieving a smooth, well-incorporated tomato, onion, and garlic base. If you don’t have a blender, a food processor can work, or for an even smoother result, an immersion blender can be used directly in the saucepan.
Ingredients for This Heartwarming Mexican Noodle Soup
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Sopa de Fideos. Here’s what you’ll need:
- One 7-ounce package of Fideo noodles or thin spaghetti, broken into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended)
- 3 (14-ounce) cans chicken broth (or 6 cups homemade chicken stock/bouillon mixed with water)
- 1 small yellow or white onion, chopped
- 1 large clove of garlic, coarsely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Coarse salt, to taste
Recommended Kitchen Tools for Sopa de Fideos
Having the right tools makes cooking a breeze. Here are some helpful kitchen tools for preparing your Mexican Noodle Soup:
- Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping vegetables.
- Medium skillet: For browning the fideo noodles.
- Blender: To create a smooth tomato base.
- Cutting board: For safe and efficient prep.
- Medium saucepan: For combining and simmering the soup.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Authentic Mexican Noodle Soup
This recipe is not only incredibly comforting but also quite easy to follow, making it a perfect choice for a soothing lunch or a quick weeknight dinner. There’s a reason chicken soup is often called “good for the soul,” and this Mexican version certainly lives up to that reputation!
- Prepare the Tomato Base: Begin by combining your canned diced tomatoes, chopped onion, and coarsely chopped garlic in a blender. Blend these ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform. This creates a rich, flavorful foundation for your soup.
- Brown the Fideo Noodles: Next, warm the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add the fideo noodles (or broken spaghetti) to the warmed oil. Cook the noodles, stirring frequently and regularly, until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This browning step is crucial as it adds a nutty depth of flavor to the noodles and prevents them from becoming mushy. Once golden, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Combine and Season: Carefully transfer the blended tomato mixture, the chicken broth, and the browned fideo noodles into a medium saucepan. Stir everything together gently to combine all the ingredients. Season the soup generously with freshly ground black pepper and coarse salt to your taste. Remember, you can always add more salt later if needed.
- Simmer to Perfection: Bring the soup to a full boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium, allowing the soup to maintain a gentle boil or strong simmer. Continue to cook for approximately 7-8 minutes, or until the fideo noodles are almost tender. They will finish cooking in the next step.
- Add Cilantro and Finish: Stir in the fresh chopped cilantro during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Continue simmering until the noodles are perfectly done, tender yet with a slight bite. The cilantro adds a burst of fresh flavor that truly brightens the entire soup.
And there you have it! A simmering pot of delicious Sopa de Fideos, a truly tasty and heartwarming Mexican soup recipe perfect for any night of the week. Serve it hot and enjoy the simple yet profound flavors.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions for Sopa de Fideos
Sopa de Fideos is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. It’s perfect on its own as a light meal, or traditionally served as an appetizer in a small cup before a larger Mexican feast. Here are some fantastic dishes that pair wonderfully with this comforting Mexican noodle soup:
- Main Dishes:
- For a complete and satisfying meal, serve Sopa de Fideos alongside some of our favorite main dish recipes like Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas, known for their easy preparation and sizzling flavors.
- Classic Chicken Tacos are always a hit, offering a delicious textural contrast to the smooth soup.
- For a richer option, Carne Asada provides a hearty protein complement.
- Sides to Complete the Meal:
- Elevate your Mexican dinner with a side of my delicious Mexican Street Corn (Esquites), bursting with tangy, smoky flavors.
- A classic Spanish Rice is always a perfect accompaniment; my friend Stephanie also has a wonderful version of this rice that you might enjoy.
- Crispy tortilla chips with your favorite salsa or guacamole are also excellent for dipping.
- Refreshing Drinks:
- To drink, we always love a classic Margarita to complete the experience.
- However, for a dinner party, this vibrant Mexican Inspired Sangria is a fantastic and festive choice.
- For a non-alcoholic option, consider a refreshing Agua Fresca.
- Desserts to Delight:
- End your meal on a sweet note with these decadent Mexican Chocolate Cupcakes, featuring a hint of cinnamon.
- Alternatively, a batch of delightful Mexican Cookies provides a light and charming finish.
- Churros with chocolate dipping sauce would also be an incredible indulgence.
Variations and Customizations for Your Sopa de Fideos
One of the best things about Sopa de Fideos is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative and customize this Mexican noodle soup to your liking:
- Add Vegetables: Boost the nutrition and texture by adding finely diced carrots, peas, or corn during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Include Protein: For a heartier meal, stir in shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!), cooked ground beef, or even small pieces of cooked shrimp towards the end of the cooking process.
- Spice it Up: If you love a little heat, add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper (seeded for less heat, or with seeds for more kick) to the blender with the tomatoes, onion, and garlic. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also add a subtle warmth.
- Smoked Flavor: Incorporate a small amount of chipotle in adobo sauce (start with half a teaspoon) into the tomato mixture for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Easily make this soup vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth. You can also add black beans or chickpeas for extra plant-based protein.
Storage and Reheating Your Mexican Noodle Soup
Sopa de Fideos is wonderful as leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to undercook the noodles slightly to prevent them from becoming mushy upon reheating. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly warmed through. You may need to add a splash of extra chicken broth or water, as the noodles tend to absorb liquid as they sit. If reheating a frozen portion, a low simmer will bring it back to life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sopa de Fideos
Here are some common questions you might have about making Sopa de Fideos:
- What kind of noodles are best for Sopa de Fideos? Traditional fideo noodles are ideal, but thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta broken into 1-2 inch pieces work perfectly as a substitute. The key is to brown them before adding to the broth.
- Can I make Sopa de Fideos vegetarian? Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this a delicious vegetarian noodle soup.
- Why do you brown the noodles? Browning the fideo noodles in olive oil before adding them to the broth adds a wonderful nutty flavor and helps prevent them from becoming mushy during simmering, giving them a better texture.
- Can I add other vegetables to the soup? Yes, you can add finely diced carrots, celery, or potatoes along with the onion, or stir in peas and corn during the last few minutes of cooking.
- How can I make the soup spicier? For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the blender with the tomatoes, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the broth.
Looking for More Comforting Soup Recipes?
As the weather cools, there’s nothing better than a warm bowl of soup to chase away the chill. If you’ve enjoyed this Sopa de Fideos, you might also love exploring some of our other delicious and warming soup recipes. Each one offers a unique flavor profile and comforting experience, perfect for any time of year.
- Try our delicious Rustic Garlic Potato Soup for a creamy, hearty option.
- Our Vegetable Rice Soup is packed with wholesome goodness.
- Indulge in the delicate flavors of Cream of Asparagus Soup.
- Or, for those who love a little spice, this Chipotle Chicken Soup offers a smoky, zesty kick.
Sopa de Fideos: Classic Mexican Noodle Soup
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 7 ounce package of Fideo or angel hair pasta broken into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes
- 42 oz cans chicken broth (3 14-oz cans)
- 1 small yellow or white onion, chopped
- 1 large clove garlic, coarsely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro
- freshly ground black pepper
- coarse salt
Things You’ll Need
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Chef’s knife
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Large skillet
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Blender
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Cutting board
Before You Begin
- You can find small packages of fideo in the ethnic aisle of your local grocery store. You can also use thin spaghetti noodles. Simply break them into small pieces about an inch or two long first.
- You can use your favorite brand of diced canned tomatoes, I actually prefer to use a fire-roasted flavor for this recipe.
- This recipe calls for canned or boxed chicken broth, but many families like to use water and bouillon. The brand I’ve seen used most often for this soup is Knorr, but your favorite brand will also work great. If you make your own chicken stock, use 6 cups for this recipe.
- Don’t skip the fresh cilantro in this recipe. The flavor of the cilantro really makes this soup and it wouldn’t be the same without it. You can get a fresh bunch of cilantro at your local grocer for around a dollar, and you can make fresh salsa using what you have left over! You can also chop your remaining cilantro and freeze it in ice cube trays by filling each compartment with fresh cilantro and some water.
- You don’t really need special equipment for this recipe, though a blender is very helpful. You could also blend the ingredients in a food processor or use an immersion blender.
Instructions
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Combine canned tomatoes, onion and garlic in a blender. Blend until smooth.
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Warm olive oil in a medium skillet and add fideo noodles. Cook over medium low heat, stirring regularly, until all pasta noodles are golden brown. Remove from heat.
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Combine tomato mixture, chicken broth and the noodles in a medium saucepan. Season with pepper and salt.
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Bring to a boil then reduce to medium (gentle boil) until noodles are almost tender, about 7-8 minutes.
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Add chopped cilantro and cook 2 more minutes or until noodles are done.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
This post was originally published on this blog on Feb 9, 2009.