Easy Pupusas

These Easy Pupusas are a true delight—golden, crispy on the outside with a warm, cheesy center. The combination of melted mozzarella and crumbled queso fresco inside the tender corn dough creates a savory experience with every bite. Perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or as part of a larger meal, these pupusas are a crowd favorite!

1. Ingredients:

• 2 cups masa harina (corn flour for tortillas)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup refried beans (optional for filling)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (optional for filling)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, warm water, and salt. Stir until the dough comes together and is smooth and pliable. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the right consistency.
2. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball (approximately 10-12 balls). Set them aside on a plate.
3. Flatten each ball of dough into a small disc using your hands or a rolling pin. The disc should be about 4-5 inches in diameter.
4. Spoon a small amount of refried beans and shredded mozzarella cheese (and queso fresco, if using) into the center of each disc. Be sure not to overfill.
5. Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling to create a small pouch, sealing the edges to enclose the filling inside.
6. Gently flatten the filled dough ball back into a disc shape, being careful not to tear the dough.
7. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, cook the pupusas for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove the pupusas from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
9. Serve the pupusas warm, accompanied by a side of salsa roja or curtido (pickled cabbage) if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Kcal: 250 kcal (per pupusa) | Servings: 6 servings