Description
Pupusas are a traditional Salvadoran breakfast treat made from masa harina dough filled with a delicious mixture of cheese, beans, and optional meat. These handmade stuffed corn tortillas are pan-fried to crispy perfection and served warm, offering a hearty and flavorful start to your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- Salt, to taste
Filling
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as queso fresco or Monterey Jack)
- ½ cup cooked and mashed beans (refried or black beans)
- Optional: ½ cup cooked pork or chicken, shredded (for additional protein)
For Cooking
- Cooking oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine masa harina and salt. Gradually pour in warm water, mixing with your hands until the dough is smooth and pliable. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to hydrate fully.
- Prepare the Filling: In separate bowls, prepare your desired fillings by mixing shredded cheese with mashed beans, and add shredded pork or chicken if using, ensuring the filling is cohesive and easy to manage.
- Shape the Dough Balls: Form the masa dough into small balls approximately the size of a golf ball, about 2-3 inches in diameter, for ease of stuffing.
- Flatten the Dough Discs: On a clean surface, flatten each ball into a disc about ½ inch thick using your palms or a flat surface.
- Add the Filling: Place a spoonful of the prepared filling in the center of each dough disc, being careful not to overfill to prevent spillage during cooking.
- Seal and Reshape: Fold the edges of the dough disc over the filling, pinching to seal completely, then gently flatten again into a disc shape without letting the filling escape.
- Heat the Cooking Surface: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Pupusas: Place the pupusas on the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown with a slightly crispy texture.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the cooked pupusas to a plate and cover with a clean towel to keep them warm until serving.
Notes
- The filling can be customized with your favorite ingredients, including various cheeses, beans, or meats.
- Make sure the dough is not too wet; it should be soft but not sticky.
- If the tortilla cracks when shaping, add a little more water to the dough.
- Serve pupusas with curtido (pickled cabbage slaw) and salsa roja for an authentic Salvadoran experience.
- You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time and assemble just before cooking.
