Sopa de Fideo Recipe

If you’re craving comfort in a bowl, Sopa de Fideo is exactly what you need! This traditional Mexican soup is simple, flavorful, and soul-warming. With tender noodles floating in a savory, tomato-based broth, this dish is the ultimate cozy meal. The mild heat from the broth, combined with the slight crunch of toasted noodles, makes each spoonful feel like a warm hug. It’s a perfect dish for rainy days, family dinners, or just when you need a comforting, easy-to-make meal. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be your new favorite go-to for cozy nights!

Why You’ll Love Sopa de Fideo

Quick and Easy

This soup is a total time-saver. You can have it ready in less than 30 minutes with just a handful of simple ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.

Comforting and Flavorful

There’s something about the combination of toasted noodles and tomato broth that just hits the spot. It’s rich, savory, and full of comforting flavors.

Budget-Friendly

Sopa de Fideo uses pantry staples like pasta, tomatoes, and broth, making it a very affordable dish. You won’t need to break the bank to make something delicious!

Customizable

Want to add extra protein or veggies? No problem! You can easily tweak this soup by adding beans, chicken, or other vegetables like carrots and zucchini for an extra boost.

Crowd-Pleasing

It’s a dish that everyone in the family will love. Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, this soup is always a hit!

Ingredients

Fideo Noodles

Fideo noodles are small, thin pasta that’s perfect for this soup. You can find them in most grocery stores, but if not, vermicelli or angel hair pasta works just as well.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes form the base of the broth, giving it that signature, rich, and slightly sweet flavor. Fresh tomatoes are best, but canned diced tomatoes work in a pinch.

Onion

Onions add depth and flavor to the soup. The mild sweetness of sautéed onions will elevate the broth and balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Garlic

Garlic gives the soup that fragrant kick, making the broth extra aromatic and savory.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth

Broth is key to bringing the soup together. Chicken or vegetable broth works perfectly for a rich, flavorful base, adding depth to the tomatoes and spices.

Olive Oil

A little olive oil is needed to toast the noodles and sauté the vegetables. It helps give the noodles a nice golden color and flavor.

Chile Ancho or Chipotle (Optional)

If you like a little kick, adding dried chiles like ancho or chipotle can give the soup a smoky heat. Totally optional, but if you’re into spice, it’s a great addition!

Salt and Pepper

Just a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors and balance the broth.

Fresh Cilantro (Optional)

For a fresh finish, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby flavor to the soup.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~180 kcal
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Fideo Noodles

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the fideo noodles and cook, stirring frequently, for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown. Be careful not to burn them—just a nice, even toast will do. Once toasted, remove the noodles from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. If you’re using dried chiles, add them now and cook for another minute to release their flavors.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes

Add the diced tomatoes to the pot, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they break down and release their juices. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, you may want to cook them down a little longer for a deeper flavor.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Once the tomatoes are softened, add your chicken or vegetable broth. Stir everything together, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Step 5: Add the Toasted Noodles

Return the toasted fideo noodles to the pot. Stir to combine, and let the noodles cook in the broth for about 5-7 minutes until tender and soaked in the flavors of the broth.

Step 6: Season and Finish

Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. If you’re using fresh cilantro, sprinkle it on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy it while it’s warm! It’s perfect on its own or with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping.

How to Serve Sopa de Fideo

With Fresh Lime

Squeeze a little fresh lime juice over the soup for a burst of citrus that brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.

With Avocado

Top your soup with sliced avocado for extra creaminess and richness. It’s a lovely contrast to the spicy and savory broth.

With a Side of Tacos

Sopa de Fideo pairs wonderfully with tacos—especially grilled chicken or beef tacos. The combination of the two is a winning meal!

As a Side Dish

This soup also makes a fantastic side dish to accompany a larger Mexican meal. Serve it alongside enchiladas, tamales, or carne asada for a complete feast.

Additional Tips

• Spice it Up: If you prefer a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more dried chipotle chiles to the broth.
• Add Protein: You can easily add some shredded chicken or ground beef to make the soup heartier and more filling.
• Make it Vegan: Simply use vegetable broth and omit any animal-based toppings like cheese or sour cream.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the noodles.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use store-bought broth?

A1: Yes, store-bought broth works just fine! If you can, choose a low-sodium option so you can control the seasoning of the soup.

Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A2: Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to eat.

Q3: Can I freeze Sopa de Fideo?

A3: Sopa de Fideo can be frozen, but keep in mind that the noodles may become a bit soft after thawing. If you’re planning to freeze it, you might want to cook the noodles separately and add them when reheating.

Q4: How can I make this soup more filling?

A4: You can add more protein, such as shredded chicken, beans, or even some crumbled chorizo, to make the soup more hearty and filling.

Q5: What can I add for extra flavor?

A5: Try adding a splash of hot sauce, a dash of cumin, or a sprinkle of cheese on top for an extra flavor boost.

Conclusion

Sopa de Fideo is one of those simple, yet deeply satisfying dishes that never fails to bring comfort. The rich tomato broth, tender noodles, and subtle heat make it a family favorite for any occasion. It’s a dish that feels like home, no matter where you are, and it’s perfect for warming you up on those cozy days. Enjoy this bowl of goodness, and don’t forget to savor every spoonful!

Print