In these super simple pupusas, you'll transform leftover turkey meat into a super-satisfying filling. Genius! Pupusas are a Salvadorian dish made from masa harina (a specific type of corn flour), stuffed with a variety of fillings such as meat, cheese and/or beans. The pupusas are then pan-fried until golden brown and crisp. In this tasty version, we used mozzarella cheese for its incredible melting ability (yes, we're going for that cheese-pull!) These are great as handheld fare, but even better loaded with a zingy salsa verde, pickled veg, or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the pupusas. Once you try these, experiment with other fillings such as shredded chicken, or mashed black beans.
How to Make It
Mix masa harina and salt in a large bowl. Slowly add the water while mixing the ingredients with your hand. Knead mixture until all water is incorporated; dough will be sticky. Let rest about 5 to 10 minutes.
Combine turkey, mozzarella, cumin, and garlic in a separate small bowl.
With damp hands, roll dough into 2-inch balls (slightly larger than a golf ball). Hold one ball in a cupped hand and, with your other hand, press your thumb into the ball to make a large well for the filling. Add a heaping tablespoon of turkey mixture to the well and bring dough around filling to enclose. Gently shape dough back into a ball. Flatten into a disc about 4-inches in diameter. Repeat with remaining dough and filling; dampen hands as needed.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium. Gently place pupusas in skillet and cook until golden brown in spots, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining pupusas, adding more oil if needed. Drain on paper towels.
Serve with salsa verde, sour cream, and pickled red onions.