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pupusas recipe

Pupusas Recipe

Pinklady
Pupusas originated in El Salvador over 2,000 years ago and were traditionally made by the indigenous Pipil people. Originally crafted with squash blossoms and beans, they evolved to include cheese, pork, and other fillings after the arrival of Spanish colonizers. In 2005, the Salvadoran government declared pupusas the national dish, and they're celebrated annually on National Pupusa Day. Today, pupusas are not only a cultural staple in El Salvador but a beloved dish worldwide.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine El Salvador
Servings 6
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
  • 1 ½ cups warm water
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Fillings (choose or mix):

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup refried beans
  • ½ cup cooked and shredded pork (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin (for pork filling)

For Serving:

  • Curtido (Salvadoran pickled cabbage slaw)
  • Salsa roja (tomato-based sauce)

Instructions
 

  • Make the Dough
    In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, salt, and warm water.
  • Mix until the dough is smooth and pliable. It should feel like soft Play-Doh. If it’s too dry, add more water, one tablespoon at a time.
  • Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 10 minutes.
  • Prepare the Fillings
    If using shredded pork, season it with a pinch of salt, cumin, and any additional spices you like.
  • Place your cheese, beans, and pork fillings in separate bowls for easy access.
  • Assemble the Pupusas
    Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions and roll each into a ball.
  • Flatten one ball into a thick disc, about 3 inches wide.
  • Place 1-2 tablespoons of your desired filling in the center.
  • Carefully fold the edges of the dough around the filling to seal it, then reshape it into a flat disc. Ensure the filling doesn’t leak out.
  • Cook the Pupusas
    Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly oil the surface.
  • Place the pupusas on the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and slightly crispy.
  • Repeat until all pupusas are cooked.
  • Serve and Enjoy
    Serve your hot pupusas with curtido and salsa roja on the side for a complete Salvadoran meal.
Keyword Pupusas Recipe