Fideo con Carne y Papas
Ingredients:
2 boxes of Q & Q Fideo Vermicelli (best brand)
1 1/2lbs of ground beef (whatever you like)
Cominos
Salt
Pepper
Garlic powder
Tomato sauce
Chopped tomatoes (Roma)
Sliced onion
Sliced green bell pepper
Knorr bouillon (I like the chicken)
Potatoes (chopped however you like)
Update: I normally eyeball my measurements but here’s a rough estimate to what I use and what steps I take. I recommend tasting as you go. Great tip is to buy plastic spoons so that you can taste and throw the spoon away and not have extra extra.
Directions:
Brown meat
When the meat is 3/4 cooked I season it with 1 tbsp salt, 1/2 tbsp pepper, 1tbsp cominos (cumin), and 1 tsp garlic powder.
I find that when you season the meat raw, the seasoning desolves and I have to add more. I would taste the meat when it’s done and if you feel you’d like to add more then do so.
Remove meat from pan
Brown fideo
Heat to medium high
add a little oil to the pan (about 1/4cup)
Add 2 boxes of fideo and mix to coat with the oil
Add seasonings. 1 tbsp salt, 1/2 tbsp pepper, 1tbsp cominos (cumin), and 1 tsp garlic powder. (You can use more or less of either of these)
When the Fideo starts to get a little color, add chopped onions (however much you’d like), 1/4 cup chopped tomatoes and 1/4 green peppers and sauté
When Fideo is browned (be careful not to burn it) add half a can of tomato sauce, mix and add water.
Finally add meat back in pan, chopped potatoes and bouillon (you can add a little bouillon at a time until you get it to where you like it. Also, make sure water slightly covers everything)
Bring to boil and reduce heat to medium (use your judgement here. My burners get really hot and I have to adjust heat while it cooks). When the potatoes are done turn off heat.
Serve with charro or refried beans, homemade tortillas and salsa!
Enjoy !!
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 400 kcal per serving | Protein: 20 grams | Fat: 15 grams | Carbohydrates: 40 grams | Fiber: 3 grams
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use any brand of vermicelli pasta for this recipe, or is Q & Q Fideo Vermicelli essential?
While Q & Q Fideo Vermicelli is recommended, you can use any brand of vermicelli pasta available to you.
The texture and taste may vary slightly, but the dish will still turn out delicious.
I’m not a fan of ground beef. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead?
Yes, absolutely! Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken according to your preference or dietary restrictions.
The cooking process remains the same.
Is Knorr chicken bouillon essential for the flavor, or can I use vegetable bouillon instead?
While Knorr chicken bouillon is suggested for its savory flavor, you can certainly use vegetable bouillon if you prefer or if you’re vegetarian.
Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
Can I omit the potatoes from the recipe?
Yes, you can omit the potatoes if desired.
However, they add texture and substance to the dish, so consider substituting with another vegetable or simply leaving them out altogether.
What’s the purpose of browning the fideo before adding other ingredients?
Browning the fideo enhances its flavor and gives it a slightly toasted, nutty taste.
It also helps prevent the noodles from becoming mushy during the cooking process, ensuring a better texture in the final dish.
Can I use any brand of vermicelli pasta, or is Q & Q Fideo Vermicelli essential?
While Q & Q Fideo Vermicelli is recommended, you can use any brand of vermicelli pasta available to you.
The texture may vary slightly, but the dish will still be delicious.
What’s the purpose of browning the meat before cooking it further in the dish?
Browning the meat adds flavor and enhances its texture.
It also helps to render excess fat, resulting in a richer and more flavorful dish.
Why should I season the meat when it’s partially cooked rather than at the beginning?
Seasoning the meat when it’s partially cooked allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in a more evenly seasoned dish.
It also prevents the seasoning from being washed away as the meat cooks.
Can I adjust the seasonings to suit my taste preferences?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the quantities of salt, pepper, cumin, and garlic powder according to your taste preferences.
Remember to taste the dish as you go and adjust as needed.
Why do I need to brown the fideo before adding other ingredients?
Browning the fideo enhances its flavor and gives it a nuttier taste.
It also helps to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy during the cooking process, resulting in a better texture in the final dish.
Is it necessary to use Knorr chicken bouillon, or can I use another type of bouillon?
While Knorr chicken bouillon is recommended for its savory flavor, you can use any type of bouillon you prefer or have on hand.
Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
Can I omit the potatoes from the recipe?
Yes, you can omit the potatoes if desired. However, they add texture and substance to the dish.
If you choose to omit them, consider substituting with another vegetable or simply leaving them out altogether.
How do I know when the potatoes are done cooking?
The potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on them while cooking and adjust the heat as needed to prevent overcooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later?
Yes, you can make Fideo con Carne y Papas ahead of time and reheat it later.
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
What are some suitable side dishes to serve with Fideo con Carne y Papas?
Traditional accompaniments include charro or refried beans, homemade tortillas, and salsa.
You can also serve it with a side salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.