In every culture there seems to be a starch dish that accompanies a lot of the different meals. In America bread is the staple. In Italy you see pasta accompanying the main dish. In Japan a side of rice is even offered at their McDonald’s, in place of the fries. The Pupusa, of course, is the staple of the Salvadoran diet, being the go to starchy accompaniment to many dishes. Oh, and it is mighty tasty!
What Is A Pupusa?
A pupusa is a thick soft cornmeal tortilla. It is cooked on a griddle. The corn meal used has gone through a process that has made it less grainy and more pliable than a typical corn tortilla you might get from a dish in another Latin country. It is stuffed with a number of fillings before cooking as well. Pupusas come in a number of varieties based upon this filling.
Fillings and Types of the Pupusa
Some of the types of Pupusas, with their corresponding fillings you might see are:
- Pupusa de Queso: stuffed with soft cheese
- Frijoles Refritos: stuffed with refried beans
- Papas y Queso: Potatoes and cheese
- Pollo y Queso: Chicken and cheese
- Ayote con Queso: Zucchini with cheese
- Pupusa de chicharrón: Stuffed with cooked seasoned pork paste
- Pupusa Revuelta: Stuffed with cheese, refried beans and pork paste (chicharrón)
What Might Be Served With Your Pupusa
A Pupusa is often served with a relish that is very similar to sauerkraut. It is called Curtido is made from pickled cabbage.
Relatives Of The Pupusa
The South Americans have a dish called Arepa, which is similar to the Pupusa. Mexicans have a similar dish called the Gordita.
Pupusas in Williamsburg
Where to get great Pupusas in Williamsburg, Virginia
Naturally a place to get authentic Pupusas is at El Sabroson Latin and Mexican Restaurant. We specialize in Latino or Salvadoran dishes your Abuelita (Grandmother) would make if you were enjoying a big family meal in San Salvador.
A Great Latin and Mexican Buffet…that many times has had Pupusas on them.
Our buffet is like a passport to South and Central America, gastronomically speaking. On the buffet there have been many days that the Latino food assortment has included Pupusas. Even when they are not on the buffet, they are part of our regular menu here on Wallers Mill Road.
Try this at home…Maybe?
If you are feeling adventurous, or just want to know more about how Pupusas are made, check out this recipe.
Here is a video clip on how to make this iconic Salvadorian dish