Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsTune-Up CaféEl Salvadoran Combo Recipe

El Salvadoran Combo Recipe

Inspired by Tune-Up Café
Time2h
Serves4

banana leaf wrapped tamale (chicken or veggie), pupusa (veggie or flank steak), with roasted tomato salsa, rice, & cortido

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Ingredients

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Tamale

Roasted Tomato Salsa

Rice

Method

Tamale Preparation

  1. 1

    Make the Tamale Dough

    In a large bowl, combine masa harina, salt, baking powder, and vegetable oil. Gradually add chicken or vegetable broth until a soft dough forms.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Filling

    Mix cooked shredded chicken or veggies with a pinch of salt.

  3. 3

    Wrap the Tamales

    Cut banana leaves into rectangles. Place a spoonful of dough on a leaf, add filling, and fold. Tie with kitchen twine.

  4. 4

    Steam the Tamales

    Place wrapped tamales in a steamer and steam for 1 hour.

Pupusa Preparation

  1. 5

    Make the Pupusa Dough

    Mix masa harina and salt in a bowl. Gradually add water until a dough forms.

  2. 6

    Fill the Pupusas

    Divide dough into balls, flatten, and place cheese or flank steak inside. Seal and reshape.

  3. 7

    Cook the Pupusas

    Heat oil in a skillet and cook pupusas until golden brown on both sides.

Roasted Tomato Salsa Preparation

  1. 8

    Roast the Vegetables

    Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place tomatoes, onion, garlic, and jalapeño on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes.

  2. 9

    Blend the Salsa

    Blend roasted vegetables with cilantro, lime juice, and salt until smooth.

Cortido Preparation

  1. 10

    Combine Ingredients

    In a bowl, mix shredded cabbage, carrots, vinegar, water, and salt. Let sit for at least 30 minutes to pickle.

Rice Preparation

  1. 11

    Cook the Rice

    In a saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until rice is cooked.

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