Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Add the meat and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Add the onion, garlic, and chiles. Continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the onion is soft. Add the tomato sauce, the chili powder, and the oregano, and stir well. Reduce to a simmer.

Heat the remaining tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fideo to the skillet and stir until nicely browned, about 5 minutes.

Combine the browned fideo and the meat mixture. Add ½ cup water and stir well. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring often, until the fideo is soft. Add more water if the mixture becomes too dry. Serve immediately.

VARIATIONS:

Conchitas con Carne: Substitute small shell pasta for the fideo.

Macaroni Con Carne: Substitute small elbow macaroni for the fideo.