Pupusas de queso are a traditional Salvadoran dish made from a masa dough filled with cheese, cooked on a griddle until golden and slightly crispy. They are comforting, cheesy, and pair wonderfully with curtido, a tangy fermented cabbage slaw, and salsa roja.
Ingredients
For the Masa:
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- ½ tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and queso fresco)
- Optional: a pinch of oregano or minced jalapeños for flavor
To Cook:
- 2-3 tbsp vegetable oil, for greasing the griddle
-
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina and salt. Gradually add warm water, kneading until a soft, pliable dough forms. It should feel like playdough—neither sticky nor crumbly. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Cheese Filling:
- Mix the shredded mozzarella with any optional seasonings in a bowl. Divide into small portions, roughly 1-2 tablespoons each.
- Assemble the Pupusas:
- Divide the dough into 8-10 equal-sized balls. Flatten one ball into a disc about 4 inches wide. Place a portion of cheese filling in the center. Fold the edges up and over the filling, pinching to seal, then gently flatten into a disc again. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- Cook the Pupusas:
- Heat a lightly oiled griddle or skillet over medium heat. Cook each pupusa for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown spots appear, and the cheese begins to melt.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve hot with curtido and salsa roja for a complete and authentic experience.
-
Tips
- Keep a small bowl of water nearby while forming the pupusas to prevent the dough from sticking to your hands.
- For extra flavor, mix in other fillings like refried beans or cooked pork (chicharrón).
These pupusas are easy to make and will quickly become a favorite. ¡Buen provecho!
- Prepare the Dough:
