Pupusas de Queso

Pupusas de queso are a traditional Salvadoran dish made of stuffed corn tortillas. They are typically filled with cheese, although other fillings like chicharrón (pork) or beans are also common. Here’s a recipe to make pupusas de queso:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups masa harina (corn masa flour)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups grated mozzarella cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (if available)
• You can adjust the cheese amounts to your preference

For the Curtido (Cabbage Slaw):

• 2 cups finely shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup grated carrots
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

For the Curtido:

1. In a bowl, combine the finely shredded cabbage, chopped onion, grated carrots, minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the white vinegar, warm water, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the vinegar mixture over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine. Let the curtido sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. You can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

For the Dough:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water and knead the dough until it’s smooth and pliable. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more water. If it’s too wet, add a bit more masa harina.

To Assemble Pupusas:

1. Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions.
2. Take one portion of dough and flatten it with your hands to create a small pancake-like shape.
3. Place a spoonful of the grated mozzarella cheese (and queso fresco, if using) in the center of the dough.
4. Fold the dough over the cheese, creating a filled ball.
5. Gently press and shape the filled dough into a disc, about 4-5 inches in diameter, making sure the cheese is sealed inside.

To Cook Pupusas:

1. Heat a lightly greased griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook each pupusa for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted.

To Serve:

Serve the pupusas de queso hot with curtido on the side. Traditionally, pupusas are also served with a tomato sauce called salsa roja, but this is optional.

Enjoy your homemade pupusas de queso, a delicious and satisfying Salvadoran dish!