Sopa Seca de Fideos

Indulge in the rich flavors of Mexico with Sopa Seca de Fideos, a delightful soup featuring thin fideo noodles reminiscent of angel hair pasta. This savory Mexican dish showcases a blend of textures and tastes, with the heat of chipotle chiles counterbalanced by the creamy goodness of avocado and sour cream. Embark on a culinary journey as you savor every spoonful of this enticing soup.

SERVES 4
PREP 20 MIN
PLUS 30 MIN SOAKING
COOK 15 MIN
FREEZE NOT SUITABLE

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 dried chipotle chiles
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, peeled and seeded
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 small onion, coarsely chopped
• 1 quart (1 liter) chicken stock
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 8 oz (225g) Mexican fideo noodles or dried angel hair pasta
• 4 tbsp sour cream, for serving
• 1 avocado, pit removed, chopped, for serving

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Begin by soaking the dried chipotle chiles in water for approximately 30 minutes. Once soaked, drain the chiles and discard the soaking water. Set the chiles aside.
2. In a blender, combine the peeled and seeded tomatoes, garlic cloves, coarsely chopped onion, soaked chipotle chiles, and 2 tablespoons of the chicken stock. Blend the mixture until it transforms into a smooth and flavorful sauce. Set the sauce aside.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and stir-fry them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are just cooked. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain. Set the chicken aside.
4. Pour the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil into the pan. Add the fideo noodles and cook them over low heat, stirring consistently. Continue cooking until the noodles take on a golden hue.
5. Pour the prepared tomato-chipotle sauce into the pan with the noodles. Stir the mixture until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Add the remaining chicken stock to the pan and return the cooked chicken to the mixture. Cook everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the fideo noodles reach the desired tenderness.
7. To serve, ladle the Sopa Seca de Fideos into individual bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a generous sprinkling of chopped avocado.

Savor the exquisite fusion of textures and flavors in Sopa Seca de Fideos, a Mexican noodle soup that captures the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine. The harmonious blend of chipotle chiles, tender chicken, golden fideo noodles, and luscious toppings like creamy sour cream and fresh avocado will transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico with every spoonful. Enjoy this culinary masterpiece that celebrates the balance between spice and creaminess.