📝 About This Recipe
Experience the beloved national dish of El Salvador with a modern, crispy twist. These thick, handmade corn tortillas are stuffed with a savory blend of melted cheese, seasoned beans, and savory pork, then air-fried to golden perfection. By using the air fryer, you achieve a delightful crunch on the exterior while maintaining a soft, pillowy center, making this street-food classic easier and healthier for the home cook.
🥗 Ingredients
The Masa (Dough)
- 2 cups Masa Harina (preferably Maseca brand)
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups Warm Water (as needed for texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (added to dough for elasticity)
The Filling
- 1 1/2 cups Quesillo or Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded or finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup Refried Red or Black Beans (must be very thick/pasty)
- 1/2 cup Cooked Pork (Chicharrón) (finely ground or pulsed in a food processor)
Curtido (Pickled Cabbage Slaw)
- 1/2 head Green Cabbage (shredded thinly)
- 1 medium Carrot (grated)
- 1/4 cup White Onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Mexican oregano preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional for heat)
Salsa Roja
- 3 medium Roma Tomatoes (boiled)
- 1 clove Garlic
- to taste Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Prepare the Curtido at least 1 hour in advance. Mix the shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions in a large bowl. Toss with vinegar, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes. Weigh it down or pack it tightly in a jar and refrigerate.
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2
Make the Salsa Roja by blending boiled tomatoes, garlic, and salt until smooth. Simmer in a small saucepan for 5 minutes, then set aside to cool.
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3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt. Gradually add the warm water and 1 tablespoon of oil, kneading with your hands until a smooth, playdough-like consistency forms. It should not stick to your hands or crack.
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4
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This ensures the corn flour is fully hydrated.
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5
Prepare your filling station. Mix the ground pork, beans, and cheese together in a bowl until they form a cohesive paste. This is the 'Revueltas' style.
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6
Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking. Take a golf-ball-sized piece of dough and roll it into a smooth ball.
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7
Use your thumb to create a deep indentation in the center of the ball, forming a small cup shape with the dough.
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8
Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling into the center of the dough cup.
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9
Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling to seal it completely. Pinch off any excess dough at the top.
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10
Gently pat the ball between your palms to flatten it into a disc about 1/2 inch thick. If cracks appear, use a wet finger to smooth them over.
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11
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush both sides of each pupusa with a thin layer of vegetable oil.
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12
Place the pupusas in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. You may need to work in batches.
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13
Air fry for 8 minutes, then flip them over. Cook for another 6-8 minutes until golden brown spots appear and the pupusas feel firm.
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14
Remove from the air fryer and keep warm under a clean kitchen towel while you finish the remaining batches.
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15
Serve hot with a generous heap of Curtido on top and a drizzle of Salsa Roja.
💡 Chef's Tips
Keep a small bowl of water mixed with a little oil nearby to dip your fingers in while shaping; this prevents the dough from sticking and cracking. Ensure your bean filling is very thick; if it's too runny, it will leak out during cooking. Don't overstuff! It’s tempting to add more cheese, but a modest amount ensures the pupusa stays sealed. If the dough feels dry or crumbly, add water one tablespoon at a time until it is supple and easy to work with. For a vegetarian version, swap the pork for finely chopped sautéed loroco flowers or baby spinach.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of fried plantains for a sweet and savory contrast. Pair with a cold glass of Horchata de Morro or Ensalada (Salvadoran fruit drink). Add a side of Casamiento (Salvadoran style rice and beans) for a full meal. A dollop of Salvadoran crema or sour cream on the side can add extra richness. Enjoy as a hearty breakfast alongside a fried egg and avocado slices.