Pupusas are a traditional Salvadoran dish made from thick corn tortillas stuffed with various fillings. They’re simple to make at home and are incredibly flavorful. Here’s a classic recipe that you can try:
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- A pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup refried beans (black or pinto beans)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like mozzarella or a Salvadoran cheese like quesillo)
- Optional: ½ cup cooked, crumbled pork or chicharrón
For Curtido (Pickled Slaw) and Salsa Roja:
- Curtido: ½ head of cabbage (thinly sliced), 1 large carrot (shredded), 1 small onion (thinly sliced), vinegar, water, and salt
- Salsa Roja: 4 Roma tomatoes, 1 small onion, 2 garlic cloves, 1 jalapeño (optional), ½ tsp cumin, and salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Curtido
- In a bowl, combine the cabbage, carrot, and onion.
- Boil water and pour it over the vegetables to soften them. Let sit for about 5 minutes, then drain.
- Add ½ cup vinegar, ½ cup water, and salt to taste. Toss the mixture and set it aside. The longer it sits, the better the flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Salsa Roja
- Blend tomatoes, onion, garlic, jalapeño (if using), cumin, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a saucepan and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let it cool.
Step 3: Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix the masa harina, water, and salt until the dough is soft and pliable. It shouldn’t crack when you shape it.
- If the dough is too dry, add a bit more water; if it’s too wet, add more masa harina.
Step 4: Assemble the Pupusas
- Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions.
- Flatten each ball with your hands into a thick disc.
- Place a spoonful of refried beans, cheese, and optional pork in the center.
- Close the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to seal, and carefully flatten the ball into a thick patty.
Step 5: Cook the Pupusas
- Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it.
- Cook the pupusas for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they’re golden and slightly crispy.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the hot pupusas with curtido and salsa roja on the side for a perfect bite of Salvadoran comfort food!
Pupusas are customizable, so feel free to experiment with different fillings like squash, jalapeños, or even other meats. Enjoy!
