If you’ve ever wanted to discover a cozy, soul-satisfying soup that’s both vibrant and simple, I can’t recommend the Sopa de Fideo: Toasted Noodle Soup in a Bright Tomato Broth Recipe enough. This Mexican classic elevates humble noodles by toasting them first, then simmering them in a bright, homemade tomato broth infused with onions, garlic, and a hint of cumin. Topped with fresh cilantro and a splash of lime, every spoonful bursts with fresh, lively flavors that feel like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential to building the signature depth of flavor and texture for this dish. Each component plays a role: from the brightness of fresh tomatoes to the earthy aroma of cumin and the satisfying snap of toasted noodles.
- Tomatoes: 2 cored and halved tomatoes bring the bright, tangy base for the broth.
- Onion: 1 cup chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
- Garlic: 4 cloves for an aromatic punch that complements the broth beautifully.
- Ground cumin: 2 teaspoons provide warm, earthy undertones that anchor the broth.
- Vegetable oil: 3 tablespoons used to toast the noodles to golden perfection.
- Fideo noodles: 8 ounces of these thin noodles (or substitutes like angel hair or vermicelli) are the heart of the soup.
- Chicken broth: 4 to 6 cups to cook the noodles and create a comforting, flavorful base.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon plus more to adjust seasoning enhances all the ingredients.
- Lime juice: 1 tablespoon adds a bright finish that lifts the flavors.
- Cilantro: Chopped cilantro for a fresh, herbal garnish.
How to Make Sopa de Fideo: Toasted Noodle Soup in a Bright Tomato Broth Recipe
Step 1: Blend the Tomato Broth Base
Start by coring and halving the tomatoes, then combine them with chopped onion, garlic cloves, and ground cumin in a blender or food processor. Puree this mixture until it’s completely smooth, about 20 seconds. This fresh blend forms the heart and soul of the broth, capturing the lively flavors that will carry through the whole soup.
Step 2: Toast the Noodles
In a large pot over medium heat, warm the vegetable oil first. Then add the fideo noodles (or broken angel hair/vermicelli pieces) and stir occasionally as they toast. Keep a close eye—this will take about 4 to 5 minutes until the noodles darken to a golden brown and release a warm, nutty aroma. This toasting step is crucial as it adds a lovely texture and depth of flavor that simple boiling just can’t match.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour the pureed tomato mixture into the pot with the toasted noodles. Add 4 cups of chicken broth and ½ teaspoon of salt, then bring everything to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The noodles will soak up the broth and become tender. If you prefer a soupier texture, add more broth until it reaches your perfect consistency.
Step 4: Brighten and Season
Once the noodles are just tender and the soup is vibrant and warm, stir in the lime juice for a refreshing zing. Taste and add more salt if needed. This final touch transforms the soup into a bright, tangy, and deeply comforting bowl of goodness ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Sopa de Fideo: Toasted Noodle Soup in a Bright Tomato Broth Recipe
Garnishes
The simplest garnishes make the biggest difference here. Fresh chopped cilantro sprinkled on top adds a burst of green herbal freshness. A wedge of lime served alongside invites you to squeeze extra juice for bright, lively bites. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or queso fresco for a creamy contrast if you like.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with warm corn tortillas or thick slices of rustic bread to soak up every last drop. A simple avocado salad or refried beans on the side make the meal more substantial, turning it into a full Mexican feast that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the soup in brightly colored bowls to echo the vivid tomato broth. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro placed artfully on top. You might even offer a small dish of toasted pepitas or jalapeño slices so guests can customize their bowls. This recipe lends itself well to family-style presentations for sharing the warmth around the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Sopa de Fideo stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container to preserve the fresh flavors and prevent the noodles from getting too soggy.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, it’s best to keep the broth and noodles separate if possible. Freeze the broth alone for up to 3 months, then cook fresh noodles to add when reheating. This prevents texture issues from reheated noodles.
Reheating
When reheating your soup, do it gently over low to medium heat to warm through without overcooking the noodles. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water and stir to loosen it back to the perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles instead of fideo?
Absolutely! Thin noodles like angel hair, vermicelli, or even broken thin spaghetti work nicely. Just be sure to break longer noodles into smaller pieces for even toasting and cooking.
Is this recipe vegetarian friendly?
Yes! You can easily make this soup vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth for the chicken broth, which will still deliver great flavor with all the fresh tomato and spices.
How important is toasting the noodles?
Toasting the noodles is the secret to this recipe’s signature nutty flavor and texture. It’s what sets it apart from regular noodle soups, so don’t skip this step!
Can I make this soup spicier?
Definitely! Add a pinch of chili flakes or fresh chopped jalapeño when toasting the noodles or garnish with sliced peppers for a spicy kick.
What’s the best way to store leftover soup without it getting mushy?
Storing the broth and noodles separately, if possible, helps maintain the texture. Otherwise, enjoy leftovers within a couple of days and reheat gently to avoid sogginess.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something that’s cozy yet vibrant and packed with authentic flavor, I can’t recommend trying the Sopa de Fideo: Toasted Noodle Soup in a Bright Tomato Broth Recipe enough. It’s a dish that comforts and delights all at once, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or sharing with loved ones. Once you experience the warmth of those toasted noodles swimming in a bright, tangy broth, you’ll understand why this soup has a special place in so many hearts.
PrintSopa de Fideo: Toasted Noodle Soup in a Bright Tomato Broth Recipe
Sopa de Fideo is a classic Mexican noodle soup featuring toasted thin noodles in a rich, homemade tomato-based broth infused with onions, garlic, and cumin. This comforting soup is brightened with fresh lime juice and cilantro, making it a flavorful and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tomatoes, cored and halved
- 1 cup chopped onion (128g)
- 4 garlic cloves
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
Soup
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 8 ounces fideo noodles (or angel hair, vermicelli, or thin spaghetti) (225g)
- 4 to 6 cups chicken broth (960mL-1.44L)
- ½ teaspoon salt plus more to taste
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Chopped cilantro for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the tomato puree: Combine the tomatoes, chopped onion, garlic cloves, and ground cumin in a blender or food processor. Puree until smooth, about 20 seconds. Set this vibrant tomato mixture aside for use in the soup.
- Toast the noodles: Warm vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. If using long noodles like vermicelli or angel hair, break them into 1-inch pieces in a separate bowl first. Add the fideo noodles to the hot oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the noodles turn golden brown and fragrant, about 4 to 5 minutes. Be careful not to let them burn; adjust the heat if needed.
- Add the broth and tomato puree: Pour the prepared tomato mixture into the pot with the toasted noodles. Add 4 cups of chicken broth and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium heat. Then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally and cook the noodles until they are tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. If the noodles absorb too much liquid or you prefer a thinner broth, add the remaining chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Finish and serve: Stir in the lime juice and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with chopped cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy the bright, comforting flavors of this traditional Mexican soup.
Notes
- Heat the oil before adding noodles to ensure even toasting without sogginess.
- Break long pasta noodles into smaller pieces in a separate bowl before toasting to allow for better cooking and easier stirring.
- Toast the noodles until they become golden brown and fragrant for the signature nutty flavor; watch closely to prevent burning and reduce heat if necessary.
