Albóndigas con fideos

Albóndigas con fideos is a classic Mexican dish featuring meatballs in a flavorful tomato sauce served with noodles. Here’s a simple recipe to make it:

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (you can also use a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Noodles:

• 8 oz fideos (or other short pasta like elbow macaroni)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cups water or beef broth

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat and add a bit of oil.
   • Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened.
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
   • Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Add the Meatballs:
   • Return the meatballs to the skillet with the sauce.
   • Simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is thickened.
5. Cook the Noodles:
   • In a separate pot, heat the oil and add the fideos. Cook for a few minutes until lightly toasted.
   • Add water or beef broth and cook according to package instructions until tender.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked fideos. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your Albóndigas con Fideos! If you have any questions or need modifications, just let me know.