Homemade Pupusas

Homemade Cheese and Bean Pupusas

Pupusas are a traditional Salvadoran dish made of masa dough filled with cheese, beans, or meats. This recipe focuses on a cheese and optional bean filling, giving you that deliciously warm, savory taste. Pupusas are made from masa harina, which has a distinct corn flavor that becomes even better when cooked. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish. Here’s how you can make these delightful treats at home.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 cups (228g) masa harina (white or yellow): Masa harina is a finely ground corn flour and is the base of pupusa dough.
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules (optional): Adds a subtle savory flavor to the dough.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural corn flavor.
• 1 1/2 to 2 cups boiling water: Used to form the dough.
• 2 tablespoons (28g) butter or lard, softened: Adds richness and softness to the dough.
• Vegetable oil, for cooking: Used to coat the pan and prevent sticking.

For the Filling

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Oaxaca cheese: A creamy, melty cheese that works perfectly in pupusas.
• 1 cup refried beans (optional): Adds a savory, hearty element.

Making the Dough

1. Combine Dry Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, chicken bouillon (if using), and salt. Stir well to mix the flavors evenly.
2. Add Water Gradually
   Slowly pour the boiling water into the masa harina mixture, stirring continuously with a rubber spatula. Start with 1 1/2 cups of water and add more as needed, little by little, to reach the correct dough consistency. The dough should resemble play dough and be slightly sticky to the touch. Allow the dough to rest for a few minutes, as this helps the masa harina fully absorb the water. If it seems dry, add a small amount of additional water.
3. Incorporate the Butter or Lard
   Add the softened butter or lard to the warm dough. Using your hands or a spatula, mix it into the dough thoroughly. The warmth from the dough should help melt the butter, making it easy to blend. The dough is now ready for shaping.

Shaping and Filling the Pupusas

1. Divide the Dough
   Once the dough is cool enough to handle, wet your hands with a mix of oil and cold water. This will help prevent sticking. Divide the dough into two halves, then divide each half into 6 equal pieces to make a total of 12 small dough balls, roughly the size of a golf ball. Keep the dough balls covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
2. Flatten and Fill the Dough
   Take one dough ball and flatten it into a 3-inch disk in your palm. Use your thumb to make an indentation in the center. Place about 1 tablespoon of refried beans (if using) and 1 heaping tablespoon of cheese in the center of the disk. Avoid overfilling, as too much filling can cause the pupusa to break open while cooking.
3. Seal and Shape the Pupusa
   Carefully bring the edges of the dough up around the filling to form a ball again. Then gently flatten the dough into a thin 3-inch disk, keeping the filling inside. If the dough begins to crack, it may be too dry—simply wet your hands and smooth the edges.

Cooking the Pupusas

1. Heat the Pan
   Set a large griddle, non-stick skillet, or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil to the pan, which will help the pupusas crisp and prevent sticking. Repeat this step as you cook each batch.
2. Cook the Pupusas
   Place 2 to 3 pupusas on the hot griddle, depending on the size of your pan. Cook each side for about 3 minutes, or until the edges are golden and you can easily slide a spatula underneath. Flip and cook the other side for another 3 minutes. The cheese should be melted inside, and the pupusas will have a slightly golden, crispy exterior.
3. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve the pupusas warm, straight from the pan. They pair wonderfully with a side of curtido (a tangy Salvadoran slaw) and salsa roja for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Pupusas

• Adjusting Dough Moisture: Masa dough should be soft and pliable but not too sticky. If the dough is cracking as you shape it, add a bit more water. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a small amount of masa harina.
• Choosing the Right Cheese: Oaxaca cheese is traditional, but mozzarella is a great substitute. Both melt beautifully and create that signature oozy, cheesy center.
• Don’t Overfill: Use only a tablespoon or so of each filling to keep the dough from tearing. Overfilling can make the pupusas difficult to seal and cook evenly.
• Keeping Hands Oiled: Oiling your hands while shaping the pupusas helps prevent the dough from sticking and makes the process smoother.
• Using a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle, like cast iron, distributes heat evenly and helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.

FAQs

Can I make pupusas without beans?
Yes, you can make pupusas with cheese alone or add other fillings like cooked chorizo or cooked, shredded chicken. The cheese provides a delicious filling on its own.

What’s the best substitute for masa harina?
Masa harina is essential for the authentic flavor of pupusas, but if it’s unavailable, you can use finely ground cornmeal as a substitute. However, the taste and texture won’t be quite the same.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, bring it to room temperature, and add a small amount of water if it has dried out.

What’s the difference between a pupusa and an arepa?
Pupusas are a Salvadoran dish typically filled with cheese, beans, or meats. Arepas, on the other hand, are a Colombian and Venezuelan dish made with corn dough but often split open and stuffed with fillings after cooking.

How can I reheat leftover pupusas?
Reheat pupusas on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crisp on both sides. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the dough too soft.

Can I freeze uncooked pupusas?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked pupusas on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Making homemade pupusas is a fun and rewarding cooking project that results in warm, cheesy, and satisfying snacks or meals. Serve them fresh off the skillet with curtido and salsa roja for a delicious and authentic Salvadoran experience right in your kitchen.