BBQ Black Bean Pupusas

 

I decided to put black beans and mozzarella into some pupusas, and quickly decided to open a jar of Victorian BBQ sauce to have with it.  It seemed a natural fit.  Also, I didn't make any salsa this year.

Don't be intimidated by working with masa harina.  This whole project comes together in a few minutes and dinner is on the table in half an hour.  They don't have to look perfect, or even all that round.  With a side salad, or coleslaw and refrigerator pickles in this case, you have a quick family meal.

*1-3/4 C masa harina
1 tsp kosher salt
*1/2 tsp paprika
1-1/2 C water
*1/2 C canned black beans, drained
*1/2 C shredded mozzarella or other melty cheese
oil for the pan
BBQ sauce, for serving

1.  In a bowl, stir together masa harina, salt, and paprika.  Add water and stir into a pasty batter.

2.  Preheat griddle or skillet over medium heat.  Grease lightly with about a tablespoon of vegetable oil.

3.  Scoop out batter into 8 portions on a piece of parchment or wax paper, roughly 1/4 C each.  With damp hands, shape each into a ball, then flatten into a disc.

4.  Sprinkle each circle with about a tablespoon each of beans and cheese.  Fold dough over fillings and seal, then pat back down into a circle about 1/2" thick.

5.  Cook the pupusas in batches, about 5 minutes per side.  Re-oil the pan before going at it again.  Serve hot, with bbq sauce on the side.  You could even go fancy and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onion.

Difficulty rating  π