Authentic Salvadoran Pupusas Recipe

Learn how to make authentic Salvadoran pupusas with this easy-to-follow recipe. Pupusas are thick corn tortillas filled with a savory mixture of cheese, beans, and/or meat. They are a popular street food in El Salvador and can be enjoyed as a snack or a main course. This recipe will guide you through the process of making the dough, preparing the filling, and cooking the pupusas to perfection. Serve them with curtido, a pickled cabbage slaw, and salsa roja for a complete and delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup refried beans
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and seasoned ground pork or beef (optional)
• Curtido (optional, for serving)
• Salsa roja (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the masa harina, warm water, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
2. Divide the dough into 12 equal-sized balls.
3. Take one dough ball and press it with your hands to form a small flat disc.
4. Place 1 tablespoon of refried beans, a sprinkle of cheese, and a small amount of ground pork or beef (if using) in the center of the disc.
5. Fold the edges of the disc over the filling, sealing it completely. Shape the dough into a round pupusa.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining dough balls and filling.
7. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
8. Place a pupusa on the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from the skillet and keep warm. Repeat with the remaining pupusas.
10. Serve hot pupusas with curtido and salsa roja on the side.

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