Fideo Loco is a hearty and flavorful Tex-Mex dish made with fideo (a type of vermicelli pasta), ground beef, and beans, all cooked in a savory tomato-based broth. It’s a comforting, one-pot meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Fideo Loco Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 (7 oz) package of fideo (vermicelli pasta)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced avocado
- Shredded cheese
- Lime wedges
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Cook the Fideo:
- In a separate skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the fideo pasta and toast it, stirring frequently, until it’s golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the toasted fideo to the pot with the ground beef mixture. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the fideo simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Stir in the drained pinto beans and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, until everything is heated through.
5. Serve:
- Ladle the Fideo Loco into bowls and top with your choice of fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, shredded cheese, lime wedges, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips:
- Pasta: Make sure to toast the fideo well, as this step adds depth to the flavor and helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
- Broth: If you prefer a soupier consistency, add more beef broth or water as needed.
- Beans: While pinto beans are traditional, you can substitute them with black beans or kidney beans if you prefer.
- Vegetables: Add some chopped bell peppers or corn for extra color and flavor.
This Fideo Loco is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine into a satisfying one-pot meal. Enjoy it on a cozy night in with your favorite toppings!
4o
