Imagine the enticing aroma of freshly seared spices, beans, and beef simmering into the melting pot of flavors that only a comforting Mexican dish can offer. Today, we're delving into a beloved traditional comfort food: Fideo, Ground Beef, and Beans. This wholesome meal captures the essence of home cooking with its simple, yet rich ingredients, making it not only a feast for the taste buds but also a joy to prepare.
What You’ll Need for Fideo with Ground Beef and Beans
Before we jump into the culinary adventure, let’s ensure you have all the ingredients at hand:
- 250g of fideo noodles (or you can use vermicelli noodles as an alternative)
- 250g ground beef
- 1 can of beans (black or pinto, rinsed)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup of tomato sauce
- 2 cups of beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped cilantro and lime for garnish
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Fideo, Ground Beef & Beans
Step 1: Preparation of Ingredients
Start by prepping your ingredients. Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and rinse your beans if you’re using canned. If you’re using dried beans, make sure to soak them overnight and cook until tender before proceeding.
Step 2: Browning the Beef
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s nicely browned, which will add depth to the dish’s flavor.
🍳 Note: Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Remove the beef and set it aside. In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the onions until they’re translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute to release its flavor.
Step 4: Toast the Fideo
Now, it’s time for the noodles. Add the fideo noodles to the pot and toast them lightly until they have a golden color. This step gives an amazing nutty flavor to the dish.
Step 5: Simmer with Sauce and Beans
Here comes the heart of the dish. Add back the browned beef, then pour in the tomato sauce and beef or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in your beans.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Beef | 250g |
| Fideo Noodles | 250g |
| Beans | 1 can |
Step 6: Season and Simmer
Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the flavors as you go. Let the dish simmer until the noodles are cooked through, absorbing all the rich flavors.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the warm Fideo, Ground Beef & Beans into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve with warm tortillas or a side salad for a complete meal experience.
With this simple recipe, you've unlocked the secret to making Fideo, Ground Beef & Beans a staple in your kitchen. This dish is not just about the comforting blend of flavors but also about the memories it evokes and the warmth it brings to your table. Enjoy the journey from preparation to savoring this delightful dish with family and friends.
Can I use other types of noodles for this dish?
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Yes, you can substitute fideo with vermicelli or even angel hair pasta. Just ensure they are broken into small pieces to mimic the texture of fideo.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
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Easily make it vegetarian by omitting the ground beef. You can add extra vegetables like peppers, zucchini, or even corn for added flavor and texture.
Can I freeze this dish?
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Yes, Fideo with Ground Beef & Beans freezes well. Just cool it completely before storing in airtight containers. Reheat gently to preserve the noodles’ texture.
What spices can I add to vary the flavor?
+Experiment with spices like oregano, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cinnamon to bring a different dimension to your dish.
