Pupusas

Authentic Pupusas Recipe from El Salvador | Corn Savory Pancakes

Region / culture: El Salvador | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pupusas are a traditional dish from El Salvador that consists of thick corn tortillas filled with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, beans, and meat. These delicious treats are a staple in Salvadoran cuisine and are often enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal.

History

Pupusas have been a part of Salvadoran cuisine for centuries, with some historians tracing their origins back to the Pipil tribes that inhabited the region before the arrival of the Spanish. The dish has evolved over time, with different regions of El Salvador adding their own unique twists and fillings to the traditional recipe.

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp salt
2 tsp baking powder
4 tbsp shortening (not liquid oil)
1.5 cups warm water (approximately)
0.5 lb (227 g) shredded muenster cheese

How to prepare

Combine the dry ingredients. Cut the shortening into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender. Add warm water a few drops at a time and work the dough with your hands until it becomes manageable. Knead the dough 15-20 times, then allow it to stand for 10 minutes.
Form the dough into balls the size of an egg. Roll out one ball at a time until it reaches a diameter of 6 inches. Sprinkle some cheese on top and place another layer of tortilla on top. Heat an ungreased skillet and place one tortilla at a time. Cook for 2 minutes on each side until it is done. Serve with cabbage and shredded carrots on top.

Variations

Try filling the pupusas with different types of cheese, such as queso fresco or mozzarella.
Add cooked beans, shredded chicken, or sautéed vegetables to the filling for a heartier dish.
Experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor of the pupusas to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to knead the dough well to ensure that the pupusas are soft and pliable.

- Use a hot skillet to cook the pupusas, as this will help them cook evenly and develop a nice crust.

- Experiment with different fillings, such as beans, meat, or vegetables, to create your own unique pupusa creations.

Serving Suggestions

Pupusas are traditionally served with curtido, a pickled cabbage slaw, and salsa roja, a spicy tomato sauce. They can also be enjoyed with a side of refried beans or a simple salad.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure to cook the pupusas on a hot skillet to ensure that they develop a nice crust and cook evenly.

- Use a light hand when rolling out the dough to ensure that the pupusas are not too thick or thin.

- Keep an eye on the pupusas as they cook, flipping them when they are golden brown on one side.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have all-purpose flour, you can use masa harina, a type of corn flour, to make the dough for the pupusas.

- Feel free to experiment with different fillings and cheeses to create your own unique pupusa creations.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for the pupusas ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

- Cooked pupusas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pupusas on a platter with a side of curtido and salsa roja for a traditional presentation. - Garnish the pupusas with chopped cilantro, sliced radishes, or a dollop of sour cream for a colorful and flavorful touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pupusas pair well with a variety of beverages, such as horchata, a traditional Salvadoran rice drink, or a cold beer.

- Enjoy pupusas with a side of refried beans, plantains, or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Cooked pupusas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, simply place the pupusas in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each pupusa contains approximately 250 calories, making them a relatively low-calorie dish.

Carbohydrates

Each pupusa contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, making them a filling and satisfying dish.

Fats

Each pupusa contains approximately 8 grams of fat, with most of the fat coming from the cheese filling.

Proteins

Each pupusa contains approximately 10 grams of protein, making them a good source of this essential nutrient.

Vitamins and minerals

Pupusas are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron, thanks to the cheese and other fillings used in the recipe.

Alergens

Pupusas contain dairy in the form of cheese, so they may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Pupusas are a delicious and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal. They are a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making them a well-rounded and satisfying dish.

Summary

Pupusas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal. With a few simple ingredients and some creative fillings, you can create your own unique pupusa creations that are sure to impress your family and friends. So why not give this traditional Salvadoran dish a try and see what all the fuss is about?

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for pupusas. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in El Salvador. My grandmother, who was an amazing cook, taught me how to make these delicious stuffed tortillas. I can still remember the smell of the masa as she mixed it with water and a pinch of salt, creating the perfect dough for the pupusas.

My grandmother learned how to make pupusas from her own mother, who learned it from her mother before her. It was a recipe that had been passed down through the generations, each woman adding her own twist to make it truly her own. And now, it was my turn to carry on the tradition.

I watched intently as my grandmother showed me how to shape the masa into small balls, then flatten them into thin circles. She then spooned a mixture of refried beans, cheese, and chicharrón (fried pork) onto one of the circles, before placing another circle on top and sealing the edges. She cooked them on a hot griddle until they were golden brown and crispy on the outside, and oozing with melted cheese on the inside.

The first bite of that pupusa was like a taste of heaven. The crispy exterior gave way to a gooey, cheesy center that was bursting with flavor. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

As I grew older and moved to the United States, I found myself craving the flavors of home more and more. I would often call my grandmother for recipes and cooking tips, and it was during one of these phone calls that she reminded me of the pupusa recipe.

I immediately set to work, gathering the ingredients and following her instructions to a tee. As I cooked, the familiar scents of the masa and the filling filled my kitchen, transporting me back to my grandmother's cozy little kitchen in El Salvador.

When I took my first bite of the finished pupusa, I was flooded with memories of my childhood. The taste was just as I remembered - rich, savory, and comforting. I knew then that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart.

Over the years, I have shared my grandmother's pupusa recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that has been a part of my family for generations. Each time I make them, I am reminded of the love and care that goes into creating these delicious little creations.

And so, as I sit here now, surrounded by the aromas of sizzling cheese and sizzling masa, I am grateful for the gift that my grandmother gave me all those years ago. The gift of a recipe that not only nourishes the body, but also the soul. The gift of a tradition that will continue to be passed down through the generations, bringing joy and comfort to all who taste it.