Authentic Sopa de Fideos Recipe: Your Guide to Classic Mexican Noodle Soup

Dive into the comforting embrace of Sopa de Fideos, a classic Mexican noodle soup that’s beloved in homes across Mexico and beyond. This recipe is my cherished version of the traditional dish, designed for you to easily recreate its delicious, heartwarming flavors right in your own kitchen. While it shares the soul-soothing quality of our popular Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup, Sopa de Fideos offers a distinctly vibrant Mexican flair that will surely earn it a permanent spot on your favorite soup list.

The Heartwarming History of Sopa de Fideos

My love for Mexican cuisine runs deep; the aromas and flavors are simply irresistible. If you’ve ever dined at an authentic Mexican restaurant, you’ve likely experienced the delightful tradition of being served a small cup of Sopa de Fideos as an appetizer. This humble yet incredibly flavorful noodle soup is more than just a starter; it’s a staple in Mexican households, a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create something truly magical.

Sopa de Fideos, which literally translates to “noodle soup,” is a cherished comfort food. Its origins can be traced back to Spanish culinary traditions, brought to Mexico centuries ago. Over time, it evolved, incorporating local ingredients and distinct Mexican seasoning, making it a unique and integral part of the country’s gastronomic heritage. It’s the kind of dish passed down through generations, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings.

Why Make Sopa de Fideos at Home?

Beyond its rich history, Sopa de Fideos is incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to prepare. Making it from scratch allows you to control the quality of your ingredients and tailor the flavors to your preference. It’s a budget-friendly meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a soothing lunch when you’re feeling under the weather. There’s something truly special about a homemade bowl of this Mexican noodle soup, rivaling even the best restaurant versions.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Sopa de Fideos

Achieving that authentic, deeply satisfying flavor of Sopa de Fideos is easier than you think. Here are some key tips to ensure your homemade version is nothing short of perfect:

• Choosing Your Noodles (Fideo): “Fideo” is the Spanish word for noodle. You’ll typically find small, thin, vermicelli-style pasta labeled “fideo” in the ethnic foods aisle of most grocery stores. If you can’t locate fideo, thin spaghetti noodles are an excellent substitute. Simply break them into small, one to two-inch pieces before cooking to mimic the traditional fideo size.
• The Secret to Flavorful Tomatoes: While any diced canned tomatoes work, I highly recommend using a fire-roasted variety for this recipe. The subtle smokiness adds an incredible depth of flavor that elevates the entire soup.
• Broth vs. Bouillon: This recipe calls for canned or boxed chicken broth, which offers a convenient and consistent base. However, many traditional families prefer to use water combined with chicken bouillon for a more concentrated flavor. Knorr is a popular brand often used for this soup, but your favorite brand will work perfectly. If you prefer to use homemade chicken stock, use 6 cups for this recipe to ensure a rich base.
• Don’t Skip the Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is non-negotiable in Sopa de Fideos. Its bright, herbaceous flavor is what truly defines this soup and brings all the elements together. You can easily find a fresh bunch at your local grocer for a small price. If you have extra, don’t let it go to waste! Use it to make fresh salsa or chop it and freeze it in ice cube trays with a little water for future recipes.
• Browning the Noodles is Key: This step is crucial for developing a nutty flavor and preventing the noodles from becoming mushy. Cook them over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until they achieve a uniform golden-brown color. Don’t rush this process!
• Blending for Smoothness: While not strictly necessary, a blender significantly helps in achieving a smooth tomato, onion, and garlic base. If you don’t have a blender, a food processor or an immersion blender will also do the trick. A smooth base contributes to the soup’s comforting texture.
• Seasoning to Taste: Always taste and adjust your seasoning before serving. The amount of salt needed can vary depending on your broth.
• Storage and Reheating: Sopa de Fideos tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of extra broth or water, as the noodles tend to absorb liquid over time.

Ingredients for This Classic Mexican Noodle Soup

This simple yet flavorful recipe requires just a handful of fresh and pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

• One 7-ounce package of Fideo noodles or thin spaghetti, broken into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• One 14-ounce can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended)
• 3 (14-ounce) cans chicken broth (or 6 cups homemade stock/water + bouillon)
• 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

Helpful Kitchen Tools

You won’t need much specialized equipment to bring this delicious soup to life, but these tools will make the process even smoother:

• Chef’s knife
• Medium skillet
• Blender or immersion blender
• Cutting board
• Medium saucepan

How to Make Homemade Mexican Noodle Soup (Sopa de Fideos)

This recipe is incredibly comforting and often served as a soothing meal, reminiscent of the chicken soup we turn to when not feeling well. It truly is good for the soul!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In a blender, combine the diced canned tomatoes, chopped onion, and coarsely chopped garlic. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform. This creates the flavorful foundation for your soup.
2. Brown the Fideo: Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add the fideo noodles (or broken spaghetti pieces) to the hot oil. Cook, stirring regularly and continuously, until all the pasta noodles turn a beautiful golden brown. This browning step is essential for both flavor and texture. Once browned, remove the skillet from the heat.
3. Combine and Season: Pour the smooth tomato mixture into a medium saucepan. Add the chicken broth and the browned fideo noodles. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper and coarse salt to your liking. Stir everything together to combine.
4. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the soup to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium, allowing it to maintain a gentle boil. Cook for approximately 7-8 minutes, or until the noodles are almost tender.
5. Finish with Freshness: Stir in the fresh chopped cilantro. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, or until the noodles are perfectly tender and cooked through.

And there you have it! A steaming, delicious pot of authentic Mexican noodle soup, Sopa de Fideos, ready to warm your heart and satisfy your palate. It’s a versatile and tasty dinner recipe perfect for any night of the week.

What to Serve with Sopa de Fideos

This delightful soup is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect on its own as a light meal, or traditionally served in a small cup as an appetizer. Here are some fantastic dishes that pair wonderfully with Sopa de Fideos:

• Main Dishes: For a complete Mexican feast, try serving Sopa de Fideos alongside some of our favorite main dish recipes like Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas, classic Chicken Tacos, or the flavorful Carne Asada.
• Flavorful Sides: Complement the soup with our delicious Mexican Street Corn (Esquites or Elote) and a side of classic Spanish Rice. My friend Stephanie also has another fantastic version of this rice recipe you might enjoy.
• Refreshing Drinks: To truly complete the experience, a refreshing Margarita is always a hit. For dinner parties or a special touch, this Mexican-Inspired Sangria is a perfect choice.
• Sweet Endings: For dessert, bake up some indulgent Mexican Chocolate Cupcakes or a batch of delightful Mexican Cookies.

Beyond Sopa de Fideos: More Comforting Soups for Colder Months

When the temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to make everything feel right. If you’re looking for more delicious soup ideas, be sure to explore these other comforting recipes:

• Our hearty Rustic Garlic Potato Soup
• A wholesome Vegetable Rice Soup
• The delightfully creamy Cream of Asparagus Soup
• And a flavorful Chipotle Chicken Soup

Sopa de Fideos: Mexican Soup Recipe Card

This Mexican Soup is known as classic Sopa de Fideos. Whether you need a comforting chicken broth soup or an appetizer for dinner, it’s a must-try.

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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Recipe Details

• Course: Appetizer, Main Dish
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Servings: 6 cups
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Calories: 196
• Author: Amanda Davis

Ingredients

• 7 ounce package of Fideo or angel hair pasta broken into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 14 oz can diced tomatoes
• 42 oz (3 x 14-oz cans) chicken broth
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, coarsely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Coarse salt

Things You’ll Need

• Chef’s knife
• Large skillet
• Blender
• Cutting board

Instructions

1. Combine canned tomatoes, onion and garlic in a blender. Blend until smooth.
2. 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.
3. Combine tomato mixture, chicken broth and the noodles in a medium saucepan. Season with pepper and salt.
4. Bring to a boil then reduce to medium (gentle boil) until noodles are almost tender, about 7-8 minutes.
5. Add chopped cilantro and cook 2 more minutes or until noodles are done.

Recipe Video

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving: 1 cup
• Calories: 196 cal
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 5g
• Sodium: 824mg
• Potassium: 395mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Vitamin A: 75 IU
• Vitamin C: 22.2mg
• Calcium: 45mg
• Iron: 1.5mg

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.