Fideo with potatoes and ground beef

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step recipe for Fideo with Potatoes and Ground Beef, a comforting, hearty dish that combines noodles, tender potatoes, and savory beef in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. I’ll break it down carefully so it’s easy to follow.

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Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

Main Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225 g) fideo pasta (or broken vermicelli)

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large tomato, chopped (or 1/2 cup tomato puree)

• 4 cups beef or chicken broth (or water)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika (optional)

• ½ teaspoon cumin (optional)

• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

1. Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even cubes (about ½ inch).

2. Chop the onion, garlic, and tomato.

3. Break the fideo pasta into 2-inch pieces if needed.

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2. Toast the Fideo Pasta

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or medium pot over medium heat.

2. Add the fideo pasta and stir constantly until the noodles turn golden brown, about 3–5 minutes.

   • This step gives the noodles a nutty flavor and prevents them from becoming mushy.

3. Remove the toasted noodles and set aside.

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3. Cook the Ground Beef

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.

2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent (2–3 minutes).

3. Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds more until fragrant.

4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon.

5. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin (if using).

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4. Add Potatoes and Tomatoes

1. Stir in the diced potatoes and chopped tomato (or tomato puree).

2. Cook for 2–3 minutes, letting the flavors combine and the tomato soften slightly.

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5. Add Broth and Simmer

1. Pour in 4 cups of broth or water.

2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low/medium.

3. Add the toasted fideo noodles back into the pot.

4. Stir gently, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the noodles and potatoes are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

   • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

   • If the mixture is too dry, add a little more broth or water.

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6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve

1. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

2. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley.

3. Serve hot, ideally with a side of warm tortillas or a simple salad.

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Tips for Best Results

• Noodles: Toasting the fideo is key for flavor and texture. Don’t skip it.

• Potatoes: Small cubes cook faster and integrate better into the dish.

• Make it saucy: If you like it more like a stew, add extra broth.

• Extra veggies: You can also add carrots or peas for more color and nutrition.

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If you want, I can also give you a faster, one-pot version that cooks everything together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.