Step 1 of 6
Pupusas
Fry the pork cubes in a dry pan over medium heat, turning, until browned and crisp at the edges, about 15 minutes. Blitz warm with the tomato, onion, garlic and a pinch of salt to a coarse, spreadable paste.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips.
How long does Pupusas take?
1 hr 10 min all in — 40 min prep, 30 min cook. Cook and rest follow the method. Leftover storage and optional extra waits are not included.
How many does it serve?
The recipe is written for 10 pieces. Scale the ingredient list on the page if you are cooking for a different number.
How hard is it?
Medium.
How spicy is it?
No chilli.
What allergens should I watch?
This recipe is labelled for Milk. Labels are informational — check the packets in your kitchen. This is not medical advice.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Gluten-free, Nut-free.
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What does it cost to cook?
Weeknight budget — about $8–16 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
What equipment do I need?
Comal or dry skillet, Mixing bowl, Blender.
How much salt do I put in?
The recipe lists Salt at 1 tsp.
What can I use instead?
Pork chicharrón paste → Nothing, for pupusas de frijol con queso. Beans and cheese only is a standard order, not a compromise.
What should I watch for?
Too hot and the outside browns before the cheese melts inside.
Any tips from this recipe?
Make the curtido the day before. A pupusa without curtido is only half the dish. If the filling bursts through, patch the hole with a pinch of dough. Nobody will know once it hits the comal. Pupusas de queso alone are easier for a first attempt. Add beans and pork once the shaping makes sense.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.