Roxanne Quinteros’ Fideo Loco Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Classic
Fideo Loco is a beloved Tex-Mex comfort food that turns simple ingredients into a warm, satisfying meal. Roxanne Quinteros’ rendition adds a delicious twist to the classic dish by incorporating tender potatoes and creamy pinto beans. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 5–7 ounces Fideo noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 ½ cups chicken stock
- 1 medium potato, chopped (optional)
- 2 cups pinto beans, cooked or canned (drained and rinsed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Fideo
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the fideo noodles and toast, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown.
- Remove the noodles from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
- In the same skillet, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease, if necessary.
Step 3: Create the Broth
- Stir in tomato sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, water, and chicken stock. Mix well.
- Return the toasted fideo noodles to the skillet.
Step 4: Add Potatoes (Optional)
- Stir in the chopped potatoes.
- Cover and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the noodles are cooked through. Add more liquid if the mixture becomes too dry.
Step 5: Incorporate the Beans
- Gently fold in the pinto beans.
- Cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the beans are heated through.
Step 6: Season and Serve
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with warm tortillas, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or a wedge of lime for added zest.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
Roxanne Quinteros’ Fideo Loco offers:
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of toasted noodles, seasoned broth, and hearty add-ins creates a rich, satisfying taste.
- Simple Ingredients: Using pantry staples, this recipe is budget-friendly and quick to assemble.
- Customizable Options: The addition of potatoes and beans makes it versatile—feel free to experiment with extra veggies or spices!
Helpful Tips
- Toast with Care: The key to a flavorful Fideo Loco is perfectly toasted noodles—lightly browned, not burnt.
- Balance the Liquid: Keep an eye on the broth; add water or stock as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Personalize the Dish: Try swapping ground beef for turkey, or add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
This recipe brings warmth, heartiness, and tradition to your table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, Roxanne Quinteros’ Fideo Loco is a dish you’ll come back to time and time again.