This is a cheap, easy, adaptable and delicious recipe. It was passed to me but I made up the name. I've only eaten it as described but ingredients could be modified for particular tastes.
Texas Ranch Fideo
1 lb sliced bacon, cut into small pieces
5 oz fideo vermicelli (Q & Q Brand is what we use)
approximately 2.5 cups potatoes, diced
approximately 3/4 cup chopped onion
approximately 1/4 cup jalapeno peppers, deseeded and chopped
1 cup (8 oz can) tomato puree
2 cups water
a dash or two of cumin
a dash or two of garlic powder
In a wok or skillet, fry the bacon. When done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon onto a paper towel. Leave the bacon grease in the pan.
Cook the onion and pepper in the bacon grease, then remove again to a paper towel.
Add the potatoes and cook them in the bacon grease, removing them to another paper towel.
Add the fideo to the bacon grease, stirring them around until they are golden brown. Now add the tomato and water and bring to a boil.
Add the seasonings and all the set aside ingredients. Reduce heat and cook until the pasta is done. Serve.