Green Chile Cheese Fideo changed up from Traditional Tomato Base

Ingredients:

fideo (coil or short)

a small amount of oil

salted butter

chicken stock

chicken broth

chopped green chile

Muenster cheese

Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Toast/brown fideo (coil or short) until golden brown,

Use a small amount of oil and add salted butter the last few minutes.

Toasted noodles hold up to sauces without getting soggy/mushy.

Add in chicken stock and bring to boil then reduce and cover for 5 minutes.

I like this “soupy” so I add more broth then add chopped green chile and small chunks of cheese (used Muenster) and stir and cover for 3 minutes.

Salt and pepper to taste.

Sopa fideo con queso chile verde is a family favorite.

Nutrition Information:

Yields: 4 | Serving Size: 1 bowl

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Fideo, and can I use a different type of pasta?

Fideo is a type of pasta commonly used in Mexican and Spanish cuisine.

It’s typically thin, short, and often coiled.

While it’s traditional for this recipe, you can substitute it with other short pasta shapes like vermicelli or angel hair broken into short pieces.

How do I toast/brown the Fideo?

To toast or brown the Fideo, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add the Fideo and stir frequently until it turns a golden brown color.

This step enhances the flavor and texture of the pasta.

What’s the difference between chicken stock and chicken broth, and can I use either one?

Chicken stock and chicken broth are similar but not identical.

Chicken stock is typically made by simmering bones, while chicken broth is made with the meat.

In this recipe, you can use either chicken stock or chicken broth based on your preference.

They both add flavor, but the stock may have a richer taste.

Can I adjust the spiciness of this dish?

Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by controlling the amount of chopped green chile you add.

If you prefer a milder dish, use less green chile.

Conversely, if you like it spicier, increase the amount of chile.

Be mindful of your spice tolerance.

What are some possible variations for this recipe?

This recipe offers room for creativity. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to vary the flavor.

Additionally, consider adding ingredients like diced tomatoes, onions, or bell peppers to customize the dish to your liking.

What is Fideo, and where can I find it?

Fideo is a type of pasta that’s popular in Mexican and Spanish cuisine.

You can typically find it in the pasta aisle of well-stocked grocery stores or at specialty Latin or Mexican markets.

Can I use other types of cheese besides Muenster?

Absolutely! While Muenster cheese adds a creamy and mild flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend for a different taste.

Is there a difference between chicken stock and chicken broth in terms of flavor?

Yes, there can be a difference in flavor between chicken stock and chicken broth.

Chicken stock tends to have a richer, more intense flavor because it’s usually made with simmered chicken bones, while chicken broth is made from simmered chicken meat.

You can use either in this recipe, depending on your flavor preference.

Can I make this recipe with a different protein source instead of chicken?

Certainly! While the recipe calls for chicken stock or broth, you can customize it with other proteins like diced chicken breast or cooked ground meat (e.g., beef, pork, or turkey) for added texture and flavor.

What are some optional garnishes for this dish?

To enhance the flavors and presentation, you can garnish your Green Chile Cheese Fideo with fresh chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream.

These toppings can add extra layers of taste and freshness to the dish.