Fideo with potatoes and ground beef is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender noodles, savory ground beef, and hearty potatoes. This recipe is a great example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fideo noodles (or broken vermicelli)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small, bite-sized cubes. This helps them cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. If you’re using frozen peas, measure out a cup and set aside.
- Cook Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Potatoes and Seasonings:
- Once the beef is browned, add the diced potatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Add the ground cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), and dried oregano. Stir well to coat the potatoes and beef with the seasonings.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice) and mix thoroughly.
- Add Broth and Simmer:
- Pour in the beef or chicken broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Cook Fideo Noodles:
- While the mixture is simmering, in a separate pan, toast the fideo noodles if desired. Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat and add the noodles. Stir frequently until they turn golden brown.
- Once toasted, add the fideo noodles to the simmering beef and potato mixture. Stir to combine.
- Add Peas and Finish Cooking:
- If using, add the frozen peas to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the peas are heated through.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once everything is cooked through and well combined, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your hearty and comforting Fideo with potatoes and ground beef!
This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual meal, and it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread. Enjoy!