Sopa Seca Dry Soup

8 oz Vermicelli; coiled

1/4 c Water

1 sm Onion; chopped

1 Garlic clove; crushed

4 oz Green chiles; canned, diced

2 1/2 c Vegetable broth

2 md Tomatoes; chopped

Fresh ground black pepper; f Chopped fresh cilantro; for

vermicelli in a plastic bag. Take a rolling pin and roll over the bag until the noodles are crumbled. Set aside. Place the water in a large skillet or wok. Add the onion, garlic, and chiles. Cook, stirring, until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the vermicelli and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and cook for 5 minutes. Add the tomato, stir, and continue to cook, uncovered, over low heat until all of the liquid is absorbed. Garnish with freshly ground black pepper and chopped cilantro. 251 calories, 0.8 grams fat per serving.

Variation: Add 1/2 cup corn kernels and 1/2 cup thawed frozen or fresh green peas to the mixture along with thte noodles and broth.

From the collection of Sue Smith, S.Smith34, Uploaded June 16, 1994