Pupusas, the beloved Salvadoran street food, are not just a dish but a canvas for endless culinary creativity. From traditional favorites to inventive new twists, there’s a pupusa out there for everyone. Ready to explore the delightful variety of pupusas? Here are ten must-try types that will have you booking the next flight to El Salvador—or at least hunting down your local pupuseria!
1. Quesillo (Cheese) Pupusa
Starting with the classic, the quesillo pupusa is a staple, filled with a rich, melty cheese that stretches with every bite. It’s simple, comforting, and undeniably delicious.
2. Chicharrón Pupusa
Filled with finely ground pork that has been seasoned and cooked to perfection, chicharrón pupusas offer a savory depth that pairs perfectly with the masa’s subtle sweetness.
3. Frijoles (Beans) Pupusa
Refried beans provide a creamy, hearty filling for these pupusas, making them a favorite for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. They’re often combined with cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Revueltas
Can’t decide on one filling? The revueltas pupusa combines cheese, beans, and chicharrón, giving you a taste of the best pupusa world in each bite!
5. Loroco Pupusa
Loroco, an edible flower native to Central America, offers a unique, herbaceous flavor. When mixed with cheese, it creates a pupusa that’s both exotic and familiar.
6. Ayote (Zucchini) Pupusa
For a lighter option, ayote (a type of squash similar to zucchini) pupusas are perfect. They’re often mixed with cheese, offering a sweet and savory taste that’s perfect for summer.
7. Jalapeño and Cheese Pupusa
Spice up your meal with a jalapeño and cheese pupusa. The fiery kick of the peppers cuts through the richness of the cheese, making each mouthful a vibrant experience.
8. Shrimp Pupusa
Seafood lovers rejoice! Shrimp pupusas are a delicious twist, filled with juicy shrimp seasoned with traditional Salvadoran spices. They’re a coastal delight that’s making waves inland.
9. Calabaza (Pumpkin) Pupusa
Ideal for autumn, calabaza pupusas offer a subtle sweetness and a soft texture, making them a delightful seasonal treat.
10. Pollo (Chicken) Pupusa
Last but not least, chicken pupusas are filled with seasoned, shredded chicken, often mixed with cheese or beans. They’re a hearty choice that satisfies any time of day.
The Universal Sidekick: Curtido and Salsa
No matter which type you choose, don’t forget to top your pupusas with curtido and a spoonful of tomato salsa. This dynamic duo adds the perfect touch of acidity and spice to balance the flavors.
There you have it—ten delicious pupusas that showcase the versatility and charm of this humble dish. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pupusa enthusiast, each type offers a unique taste of Salvadoran culture. So, why not embark on a pupusa tasting adventure and discover your favorite?