Mexican Fideo with Ground Beef and Potatoes

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### Instructions

#### 1. Toast the Fideo
– Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
– Add the fideo noodles and toast them until golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
– Remove the toasted noodles and set aside.

#### 2. Brown the Ground Beef
– In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil.
– Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
– Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove and set aside.

#### 3. Sauté the Aromatics
– In the same pot, add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.

#### 4. Build the Base
– Stir in the tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, and paprika, mixing well to coat the aromatics.
– Add the diced potatoes and return the ground beef to the pot.

#### 5. Add Broth and Simmer
– Pour in the broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
– Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

#### 6. Cook the Fideo
– Add the toasted fideo noodles to the pot and stir gently.
– Simmer for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked through.

#### 7. Serve
– Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
– Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

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### Tips for Success

– **Toast the Fideo Properly**: The golden-brown color adds depth to the dish, so don’t skip this step.
– **Even Potato Cooking**: Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
– **Broth Flavor**: Use a good-quality chicken or beef broth for maximum flavor.

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### Variations

– **Vegetarian**: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or black beans and use vegetable broth.
– **Spicy Kick**: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
– **Additional Vegetables**: Stir in diced carrots, peas, or zucchini for a more nutritious dish.

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### Serving Suggestions

– Pair with warm tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
– Serve alongside a fresh green salad or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.

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### Storage and Reheating

– **Refrigeration**: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– **Freezing**: Freeze for up to 2 months, but note that the noodles may soften slightly after reheating.
– **Reheating**: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to restore the soup’s consistency.

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### Why This Recipe Shines

Mexican Fideo with Ground Beef and Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food. Its rich, savory broth, hearty ingredients, and touch of spice make it a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a meal that feels like home, bringing together the warmth of tradition and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

Dig into this classic dish, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican cooking in every bite! 🌟