One Bowl at a Time

What is it about favorite childhood foods? Somehow they live deep inside our minds and hearts. Foods we learn to eat as adults don't have the same kind of emotional hold on us, don't provide the same comfort. Perhaps this is because they are associated with that simpler time in our lives, those memories of being protected and taken care of, of diving headlong into life without worrying about consequences.

My mother was and still is glued to her kitchen. She spends most of her time in it, as if it's a safe haven. Maybe it's because she's a Taurus, the kitchen symbolizes home and hearth and is her focal point. Growing up I favored basic foods that she would transform into savory extraordinary meals; like her Sopa de Fideo (Mexican Noodle Soup). I would turn up my nose at anyone else's. To this day when I make it, it isn't as good as hers.

She would make it when the weather was chilly or overcast and I would be cuddled under a quilt curled with a book- the smell emanating from the steamy kitchen was irresistible. She served it as a starter in small bowls and as it cooled down the juices would give it a richer flavor. I wanted it as my main meal and would often ask for seconds and pass on the entree. I share it with you, as a cool weather treat.

1-7 oz package of La Moderna Fideo broken into pieces (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1- 8 oz. can tomato sauce
1 sm- fresh grated tomato
2- 14 oz cartons of chicken broth
1 large onion, chopped

freshly ground black pepper
coarse sea salt

In a large skillet heat olive oil and add fideo noodles. Cook over medium low heat, stirring regularly, until all noodles are golden brown and toasty.

Combine tomato sauce and fresh tomato, chicken broth to the noodles. Add onion and season with pepper and salt. Bring to a boil then reduce to medium heat (gentle boil) until noodles are almost tender, about 8 minutes. Simmer another 2 minutes until noodles are done.

Leftover Fideo is even better-since the flavors blend more.

*Measurements are presumed.

Buen Provecho!