Forktionary

Salvadorian Pupusas Recipe

Craving the authentic taste of Salvadorian pupusas? This recipe unlocks the secret to perfectly thin, crispy corn cakes bursting with savory refried beans and melted cheese. Learn how to achieve that restaurant-quality, flawlessly sealed pupusa – no holes, just pure deliciousness! Inspired by countless DC visits to Salvadorian eateries, this recipe emphasizes the importance of using masa harina (fine ground cornmeal from dry hominy) for the best results. Skip the North American cornmeal – it won't deliver that same incredible texture. Find all the ingredients at your local Latin American grocery store or bodega. Get ready for a flavor explosion with every bite, accompanied by tangy curtido and your favorite hot sauce!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Calories 313.4 kcal
Protein 19g
Rating 4.4 (8 Reviews)
Salvadorian Pupusas 22

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Salvadorian Pupusas

  • 2 cups masa harina (fine ground cornmeal from dry hominy)
  • 1 1/2 - 1 3/4 cups warm water (amount needed to form a workable dough)
  • 1 1/2 cups refried beans
  • White Cheese
  • Light Vegetable Oil

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How to Make Salvadorian Pupusas

  1. In a large mixing bowl, gradually add warm water to the masa harina, mixing until a soft, workable dough forms. Add water gradually until you reach the right consistency.
  2. In a separate bowl, prepare your refried beans.
  3. In another bowl, shred your cheese.
  4. Divide the dough into 25 equal-sized pieces.
  5. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Flatten each ball between your palms to about 1/2-inch thickness.
  6. Place a spoonful of refried beans and a small handful of cheese in the center of each flattened dough circle.
  7. Carefully fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges tightly to prevent leakage. Gently flatten the pupusa again into a thick disc, ensuring the filling remains securely inside.
  8. Heat a heavy, wide-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil.
  9. Carefully place the pupusas in the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until lightly golden brown and firm to the touch.
  10. Remove the pupusas from the skillet and serve immediately with curtido and your favorite hot sauce.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

7 g

Sugar

2g

Fat

3g

Carbs

21g

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60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion North American Lunch Side Dishes Snacks Beans Eggs Dairy Central American Potluck Diabetic Grains Cheese Dietary Inexpensive Black Beans Egg Free Guatemalan Free Of Something Pasta Rice And Grains To Go Presentation Served Hot