Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsTune-Up CaféEl Salvadoran Pupusas Recipe

El Salvadoran Pupusas Recipe

Inspired by Tune-Up Café
Time1h
Serves2

two served with roasted tomato salsa and curtido refried bean, zucchini & queso fresco -OR- flank steak, chile pasado & queso fresco

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Ingredients

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Pupusa Dough

Salsa and Curtido

Method

Pupusa Preparation

  1. 1

    Make the Dough

    In a large bowl, mix masa harina and salt. Gradually add water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Let it rest for 10 minutes.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Fillings

    In a separate bowl, combine refried beans, grated zucchini, and crumbled queso fresco or flank steak with chopped chile pasado.

  3. 3

    Shape the Pupusas

    Divide the dough into equal portions (about the size of a golf ball). Flatten each ball in your palm, add a spoonful of filling, and fold the dough over to seal. Gently flatten the filled dough to form a disc.

  4. 4

    Cook the Pupusas

    Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each pupusa for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy.

Salsa and Curtido Preparation

  1. 5

    Make the Salsa

    Blend roasted tomatoes, chopped onion, cilantro, and lime juice until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt to taste.

  2. 6

    Prepare the Curtido

    In a bowl, mix shredded cabbage, grated carrots, vinegar, and salt. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to develop flavors.

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