Authentic Salvadoran Pupusas (Cheese, Bean & Pork Filled)
Pupusas are one of El Salvador’s most beloved comfort foods, known for their thick corn tortillas and rich, savory fillings. Traditionally made with masa harina and filled with ingredients like cheese, refried beans, or seasoned pork, pupusas are hearty, satisfying, and deeply rooted in Salvadoran culture. Whether served as a main dish or shared as a family-style meal, they bring warmth and flavor to the table.
What makes pupusas especially special is their simplicity. With just a few pantry ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, you can recreate an authentic Central American dish at home. They’re naturally gluten-free, endlessly customizable, and perfect for anyone looking to explore traditional Salvadoran cuisine in an approachable way.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pupusa recipe is easy to follow, even for beginners, and produces soft, golden tortillas with flavorful fillings every time. The dough is forgiving, the fillings can be mixed and matched, and the cooking process is quick. Whether you prefer cheese, beans, pork, or a combination, this recipe allows you to tailor each pupusa to your taste while still honoring its traditional roots.
Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 10 pupusas
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make authentic Salvadoran pupusas, gather the following ingredients:
2 cups masa harina
1¼ cups warm water
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, quesillo, or cotija)
1 cup refried beans
1 cup cooked pork (chicharrón), finely shredded
Oil, for cooking
You can use one filling or combine cheese, beans, and pork for extra flavor.
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix the masa harina and salt. Gradually add the warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead gently until the dough is smooth and pliable. Cover and let rest for a few minutes.
Divide the dough into golf-ball-sized portions. Flatten one portion slightly in your palm, add a small amount of filling to the center, then carefully fold the dough around the filling, sealing it completely. Gently flatten into a thick patty, taking care not to expose the filling.
Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each pupusa for about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and lightly crisp on the outside. Repeat with the remaining dough.
The finished pupusas should be tender, warm, and slightly crisp, with melted filling inside.
Tips for Perfect Pupusas
Keep your hands slightly damp while shaping the dough to prevent sticking. If the pupusas crack, gently pinch the dough back together. Make sure the skillet is fully heated before cooking to achieve an even golden color without drying them out.
Serving Suggestions
Pupusas are traditionally served with curtido (a tangy cabbage slaw) and tomato salsa, but they’re also delicious on their own. Enjoy them fresh off the skillet for the best texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pupusas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, flipping once to maintain their texture.
FAQs
Can I make pupusas ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare and shape the pupusas ahead of time and store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.