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Papusas Recipe: How to Make the Perfect El Salvadorian Delight

Papusas Recipe

If you're looking to bring the authentic flavors of Central America to your kitchen, this Papusas Recipe is the perfect place to start. Papusas are a beloved traditional dish from El Salvador, featuring thick corn tortillas filled with delicious ingredients like cheese, beans, and meats. Our step-by-step Papusas Recipe ensures that you'll have a foolproof method to recreate this flavorful dish at home. Whether you're new to Salvadorian cuisine or a seasoned fan, this recipe will walk you through every detail to help you master the art of making perfect papusas that will impress your family and friends.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine El Salvadorian
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Hands for shaping the dough

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (queso fresco or mozzarella)
  • 1 cup refried beans (optional)
  • ½ cup cooked pork (optional, finely shredded)
  • Oil for cooking

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, mix the masa harina and salt. Slowly add water until the dough forms a soft, non-sticky consistency. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
  • Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Flatten each ball into a disc.
  • Place about 1 tablespoon of your desired filling (cheese, beans, or meat) in the center of each disc. Fold the dough over the filling and shape it into a ball again.
  • Gently flatten the filled dough ball into a disc about ¼ inch thick.
  • Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat. Cook each papusa for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
  • Serve hot with curtido (fermented cabbage slaw) and tomato salsa.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and stick with cheese or beans as the filling. Experiment with different fillings to find your favorite combination!
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