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Papusa

Delicious Salvadoran stuffed corn cakes with customizable fillings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 pieces
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Salvadoran
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 cups masa harina
  • 1 ½ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup shredded cheese queso blanco or mozzarella
  • 1 cup cooked and mashed beans refried beans work well
  • Optional: cooked pork or chicharrón finely chopped

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Cast iron skillet or griddle
  • Rolling pin
  • Spatula
  • Plastic wrap or wax paper

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt.
  2. Gradually add the warm water and mix until a soft dough forms.
  3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest for about 15 minutes.
  4. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each into a ball.
  5. Using your hands or a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a disc about ½ inch thick.
  6. Place a tablespoon of cheese and beans in the center of each disc. If using pork, add that too.
  7. Carefully fold the edges of the disc over the filling, pinching them to seal.
  8. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  9. Cook each papusa for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
  10. Remove the papusas from the skillet and serve warm with curtido and salsa roja.

Notes

Serve with curtido and salsa roja for best flavor.