As the sun dipped below the horizon and the cool evening air rolled in, I found myself craving something warm and inviting—something that whispered comfort. That’s when the idea of Fideo Seco en Mole danced in my mind, a dish that beautifully marries the rich, complex flavors of mole with tender, short pasta. With just a handful of ingredients, including San Marzano tomatoes and a touch of mole paste, this recipe transforms into a delightful weeknight meal that will make your taste buds sing.
You wouldn’t believe how quickly this dish comes together! It’s the perfect remedy for those who are tired of the same fast food routine, offering a refreshing twist to your dinner table that feels like a warm embrace. The finished pasta, cloaked in a stunning mole sauce, captures the essence of traditional Mexican comfort food while keeping things effortless. Grab your pots, and let’s dive into this home-cooked masterpiece that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Why is Fideo Seco en Mole a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for cooks of any skill level.
Rich, Complex Flavors: The unique fusion of mole and pasta ensures each bite is an explosion of taste that’s both satisfying and comforting.
Quick Weeknight Meal: Whip it up in just 20 minutes, so you can enjoy a homemade dinner without the hassle.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it ideal for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Versatile Base: Customize your plate by adding veggies or pairing with a fried egg for extra richness.
Cultural Comfort: Experience the heart of Mexican cuisine through this traditional recipe, enhancing your culinary repertoire!
Fideo Seco en Mole Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavorsome masterpiece!
For the Pasta
- Fideo Pasta – This short, thin pasta is the star of your dish; capellini or angel hair works if you need a substitute—just break it into smaller pieces before cooking.
For the Sauce
- San Marzano Tomatoes – A rich base for the sauce; purée them for a smooth consistency, or use fresh tomatoes if you prefer.
- Onion Powder – Adds depth and enhances the savory flavor of the sauce.
- Garlic Powder – Elevates the taste of your sauce with its aromatic goodness.
- Mole Paste – Infuses your dish with authentic, complex flavors; brands like Mole Doña María and Juquilita Mole Coloradito are recommended for ease.
Fideo Seco en Mole is a dish that brings comfort and joy to your dinner table! Enjoy the delightful flavors and experience the warm embrace of home-cooked goodness.
How to Make Fideo Seco en Mole
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Combine ingredients: In a large saucepan, mix puréed San Marzano tomatoes, onion powder, and garlic powder. Heat over medium until the mixture is warm and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add mole: Stir in the mole paste, mixing thoroughly until well combined. Let it heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Incorporate pasta: Add the fideo pasta along with enough water or broth to cover it completely. Stir gently to ensure the pasta is submerged in the flavorful sauce.
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Cook until tender: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta absorbs the liquid and reaches a tender state.
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Adjust consistency: If necessary, add a splash more water to prevent the pasta from sticking, stirring occasionally to keep everything creamy and delicious.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Fideo Seco en Mole?
Enhance your dining experience by pairing this comforting dish with delightful accompaniments that elevate its rich flavors.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: The crunchiness of tortilla chips adds a delightful texture contrast, perfect for scooping up any leftover mole sauce.
- Fresh Guacamole: Creamy, avocado goodness with a hint of lime balances the rich mole and adds a refreshing element to your meal.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: This zesty, creamy salad brings sweetness and brightness, perfectly complementing the savory notes of the fideo.
- Side of Refried Beans: The smooth, rich beans provide a hearty and satisfying base, enhancing the overall comfort food experience.
- Lime Wedges: A simple squeeze of lime adds acidity, cutting through the richness and enhancing the mole’s complex flavors.
- Spicy Pickled Vegetables: These tangy nibbles offer a sharp contrast to the mole, adding a unique flavor explosion with each bite.
- Pineapple Agua Fresca: A sweet and fruity drink that refreshes your palate and balances the savory notes of the dish.
- Flan or Tres Leches Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with these classic desserts, providing a luscious counterpoint to the savory pasta.
- Fried Eggs: For a heartier option, top your fideo with a sunny-side-up egg for added richness and a delicious breakfast-for-dinner vibe.
- Sautéed Greens: Quick sautéed spinach or kale drizzled with olive oil adds a nutritious and vibrant touch to your plate.
Make Ahead Options
These Fideo Seco en Mole are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mole sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply mix the puréed San Marzano tomatoes, onion powder, garlic powder, and mole paste, allowing the flavors to meld together overnight. For added convenience, you can also pre-measure the fideo pasta and keep it in a dry place. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat the sauce in a saucepan, add the pasta along with water or broth, and simmer until tender—a delightful meal awaits you with minimal effort, just as delicious as when freshly cooked!
Expert Tips for Fideo Seco en Mole
• Pasta Substitution: If fideo pasta isn’t available, capellini or angel hair work perfectly—just remember to break them into smaller pieces before adding to the sauce.
• Mole Incorporation: Ensure the mole paste is fully blended into the sauce to avoid clumps; this will create that smooth, luscious coating on your pasta.
• Consistency Control: Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from clumping or sticking to the bottom; adjusting the liquid will help maintain the perfect texture.
• Seasoning Tweak: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to enhance the flavor profile of your Fideo Seco en Mole, completing your comforting dish.
• Leftover Ideas: This dish stores beautifully! Refrigerate leftovers for up to three days, and consider serving cold as a unique pasta salad for a refreshing twist.
Fideo Seco en Mole Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this comforting dish with these delightful twists!
- Vegetarian: Swap mole paste for a vegetable-based alternative, enriching the dish with seasonal veggies for a fresher taste.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chipotle in adobo or crushed red pepper flakes for an exciting heat that dances on your palate.
- Protein Boost: Mix in cooked shredded chicken or black beans for a heartier dish packed with additional protein and flavor.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil or chopped nuts like almonds for a unique texture and taste profile.
- Herbal Twist: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley, adding brightness that complements the rich mole beautifully.
- Creamy Addition: Fold in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche for a luxurious, creamy consistency that envelops the pasta.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish just before serving to bring out all the vibrant flavors and add a refreshing pop.
- Cheesy Delight: Top it off with crumbled queso fresco or a sprinkle of grated cotija cheese for a flavorful, salty finish that will make you swoon!
How to Store and Freeze Fideo Seco en Mole
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they’re well covered to retain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and prevent sticking. Stir occasionally for even heating.
Make-Ahead Tip: Consider making this Fideo Seco en Mole in advance for easy weeknight dinners; the flavors deepen and become even more delicious after a day in the fridge!
Fideo Seco en Mole Recipe FAQs
What type of fideo pasta should I use?
Absolutely! Fideo pasta is the traditional choice for this recipe, but you can use capellini or angel hair if necessary. Just break them into smaller pieces (about 2 inches long) before cooking to get the best results.
How should I store leftovers of Fideo Seco en Mole?
Leftover Fideo Seco en Mole can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before refrigerating to maximize freshness, and reheat gently on the stove.
Can I freeze Fideo Seco en Mole?
Very! To freeze, portion the Fideo Seco en Mole into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore its creamy texture.
What should I do if my pasta sticks together while cooking?
The more the merrier! If you find that your pasta has clumped together, don’t panic. Simply stir in a bit more water or broth while gently breaking apart the clumps. Keep the pot covered and let it simmer for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, to achieve the desired consistency.
Is Fideo Seco en Mole suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Yes, you can easily make a gluten-free version of Fideo Seco en Mole! Simply replace the regular fideo pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative, ensuring that all other ingredients, particularly the mole paste, are gluten-free as well. Always check labels to be sure!
How can I enhance the flavors of my Fideo Seco en Mole?
For a richer taste, consider adding sautéed onions and bell peppers to the sauce before adding the pasta. You can also stir in some fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving to brighten the dish. Additionally, tasting and adjusting seasoning before serving ensures a fully flavored meal.
Fideo Seco en Mole: Your New Favorite Comfort Food Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine ingredients: In a large saucepan, mix puréed San Marzano tomatoes, onion powder, and garlic powder. Heat over medium until the mixture is warm and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add mole: Stir in the mole paste, mixing thoroughly until well combined. Let it heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate pasta: Add the fideo pasta along with enough water or broth to cover it completely. Stir gently.
- Cook until tender: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Adjust consistency: If necessary, add a splash more water to prevent sticking, stirring occasionally.