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Roxanne Quinteros Fideo Loco recipe

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    Fideo Loco is a cherished Tex-Mex dish that brings warmth, comfort, and a burst of rich flavors. Known for its delightful blend of noodles, ground beef, and savory broth, this recipe has won over hearts across the Southwest and beyond. Originally a humble meal, Fideo Loco became popular for its simplicity and affordability, eventually turning into a beloved household staple. Today, we’re sharing a rendition of Roxanne Quinteros’ classic Fideo Loco recipe, packed with vibrant flavors and crafted with love to create a dish that will leave your family asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this exquisite version that brings tradition and taste to the table.

    History of Fideo Loco

    Fideo Loco traces its roots back to Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, where it quickly became a comfort food loved for its budget-friendly ingredients and heartiness. The word “fideo” refers to thin noodles, often vermicelli, commonly used in Mexican soups and dishes. Over time, Tex-Mex chefs adapted it by incorporating local spices and proteins, giving rise to the distinctively rich, savory dish we know today. Every family has its own version, with ingredients that can vary slightly, but the essence of Fideo Loco remains the same—noodles cooked to perfection in a spiced broth, mixed with ground meat, and often accompanied by beans and vegetables.

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    Ingredients

    For the Noodles and Broth

    • 1 cup fideo noodles (or vermicelli) – toasted to a golden brown
    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – for toasting the noodles
    • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 large tomato, diced – for a rich tomato base
    • 4 cups beef broth – adds depth to the broth
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin – for that classic Tex-Mex flavor
    • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder – for a slight heat
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    For the Meat Mixture

    • 1 lb ground beef – preferably lean, to avoid excess grease
    • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – adds a smoky undertone to the beef
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Optional Add-ins and Garnishes

    • 1 cup pinto beans (or black beans) – rinsed and drained if canned
    • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – for garnish
    • 1/2 cup queso fresco or shredded cheese – optional, for a creamy finish
    • 1 avocado, sliced – for added creaminess
    • Lime wedges – for a tangy twist

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

    1. Toast the Noodles: In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the fideo noodles and stir continuously until they turn a golden brown. This step brings out a nutty flavor in the noodles that’s essential for a traditional Fideo Loco. Remove the noodles and set them aside.

    Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

    1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then add the chopped onions. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until they become translucent.
    2. Add the Garlic and Tomato: Add the minced garlic and diced tomato, stirring occasionally for about 2-3 minutes. The tomatoes will start to soften, creating a rich base for the broth.

    Step 3: Build the Broth

    1. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and add ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
    2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and add the toasted fideo noodles. Let everything cook together for about 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the flavors.

    Step 4: Cook the Ground Beef

    1. Brown the Beef: While the noodles are cooking, heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through.
    2. Season the Beef: Once the beef is almost fully cooked, add smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to season the meat. Once done, set it aside.

    Step 5: Combine Everything

    1. Add Beans (Optional): If you’re adding beans, mix them into the noodle broth at this stage. Stir well, allowing the flavors to meld together.
    2. Incorporate the Meat: Add the seasoned ground beef to the pot with noodles and beans. Stir gently, making sure all ingredients are well incorporated.

    Step 6: Garnish and Serve

    1. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top and add slices of avocado if desired. For extra creaminess, add queso fresco or shredded cheese.
    2. Serve with Lime: Place lime wedges on the side for a fresh, tangy flavor to balance the savory depth of the dish.

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    Tips for the Best Fideo Loco

    • Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, high-quality beef, and aromatic spices are key to making this dish truly exceptional.
    • Adjust the Spice: For those who prefer a bit more heat, add diced jalapeños to the onions and garlic or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
    • Experiment with Beans: Pinto beans are classic, but feel free to try black beans or even refried beans for a different texture.

    Conclusion

    Roxanne Quinteros’ Fideo Loco recipe captures the essence of Tex-Mex cuisine—a satisfying, comforting dish with layers of flavor. From the golden toasted noodles to the hearty ground beef and beans, each bite is a reminder of the rich culinary traditions behind Fideo Loco. Make this recipe your own by adding your favorite toppings or a squeeze of lime for a personalized touch. Serve it at gatherings or cozy family dinners, and watch as it becomes a favorite for years to come.

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