Lekhotloane Pupusas

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Lesotho dish, Lekhotloane, is transformed into Salvadoran pupusas by using masa harina instead of sorghum flour. The filling is also modified to include Salvadoran ingredients like cheese, refried beans, and chicharrón. The cooking technique remains similar, with the pupusas being cooked on a griddle until crispy. We alse have the original recipe for Lekhotloane, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) masa harina 2 cups (240g) masa harina
• 1 1/2 cups (355ml) warm water 1 1/2 cups (355ml) warm water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (120g) grated cheese (such as quesillo or mozzarella) 1 cup (120g) grated cheese (such as quesillo or mozzarella)
• 1 cup (200g) refried beans 1 cup (200g) refried beans
• 1 cup (150g) cooked and crumbled chicharrón (crispy pork) 1 cup (150g) cooked and crumbled chicharrón (crispy pork)
• Vegetable oil, for cooking Vegetable oil, for cooking

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 48g, 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, warm water, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
2. 2.
   Divide the dough into golf ball-sized portions and flatten each portion into a disc.
3. 3.
   Place a spoonful of refried beans, a sprinkle of cheese, and a spoonful of crumbled chicharrón in the center of each disc.
4. 4.
   Fold the edges of the disc over the filling, sealing it completely. Gently flatten the pupusa to form a thick pancake shape.
5. 5.
   Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with vegetable oil.
6. 6.
   Cook the pupusas for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. 7.
   Serve hot with curtido (Salvadoran cabbage slaw) and tomato salsa.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Masa harina — Make sure to use masa harina specifically made for pupusas or tortillas, as regular cornmeal will not yield the same results.
• Chicharrón — If you can't find chicharrón, you can substitute it with cooked and crumbled bacon for a similar flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure to seal the pupusas properly to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
• Serve the pupusas immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
• Experiment with different fillings such as shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, or even vegan cheese for variety.

Serving advice

Serve the Lekhotloane Pupusas hot with a side of curtido (Salvadoran cabbage slaw) and tomato salsa. The tangy and crunchy curtido complements the savory pupusas perfectly, while the tomato salsa adds a refreshing kick.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Lekhotloane Pupusas on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve the curtido and tomato salsa in separate bowls alongside the pupusas for a colorful and appetizing presentation.