Homemade Pupusas

Homemade pupusas are a traditional Salvadoran dish that consists of thick corn tortillas filled with various delicious fillings. They are typically served with a side of curtido, a tangy cabbage slaw, and a tomato-based salsa. Here’s a basic recipe for making pupusas:

Ingredients:

For the Pupusa Dough:

• 2 cups masa harina (corn masa flour)
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Filling (choose one or more):

• Shredded cheese (queso fresco or mozzarella are commonly used)
• Cooked and seasoned ground pork (chicharrón)
• Refried beans
• Loroco (a Central American edible flower, often mixed with cheese)

For the Curtido (Cabbage Slaw):

• 2 cups finely shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Tomato Salsa (optional):

• 2-3 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1-2 jalapeño or serrano peppers, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Curtido:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, chopped onion, chopped carrot, and cilantro.
   • In a separate bowl, mix the vinegar, warm water, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
   • Pour the vinegar mixture over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine. Allow the curtido to marinate while you make the pupusas.
2. Make the Pupusa Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt.
   • Gradually add the warm water and knead the mixture until it forms a smooth, pliable dough. If the dough is too dry, add a bit more water, a tablespoon at a time.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • You can use one or more fillings for your pupusas. Common options include cheese, cooked and seasoned ground pork (chicharrón), refried beans, or loroco mixed with cheese.
4. Assemble the Pupusas:
   • Take a golf ball-sized portion of the masa dough and flatten it into a disc with your hands.
   • Place a spoonful of your chosen filling in the center of the disc.
   • Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, sealing it to create a stuffed ball.
   • Flatten the stuffed ball into a thick tortilla, about 4-5 inches in diameter. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed.
5. Cook the Pupusas:
   • Heat a lightly greased griddle or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Place the pupusas on the hot surface and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they become golden brown and slightly crispy.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the pupusas hot, accompanied by the curtido and tomato salsa (if desired).

Pupusas are a wonderful and flavorful dish that can be customized with your favorite fillings. Enjoy these homemade pupusas as a delicious snack or meal.