Matt Cunningham’s Favorite Latin Comfort Food
🌎 A Global Comfort Food—And a Team Favorite
This week’s Recipe Thursday isn’t just about culture—it’s about sharing one of our team’s most-loved bites.
Matt Cunningham, one of our lead culinary minds, lights up every time pupusas hit the grill. From the smell of griddled masa to the balance of melty cheese and crunchy curtido, this Salvadoran classic is one of his all-time favorites. So what better way to celebrate than by giving you the recipe?
At Iacofano’s, we believe food is personal. That’s why today, we’re opening the recipe book and showing you how to bring Matt’s favorite Latin street food to your own kitchen or next event.
🫓 What Is a Pupusa?
A pupusa is a thick, hand-pressed corn tortilla made from masa harina, filled with cheese, beans, or meat, then seared on a hot griddle. It’s El Salvador’s national dish and a staple in many of our Latin-inspired catering menus.
They’re traditionally paired with:
- Curtido – a tangy cabbage slaw
- Salsa roja – a smooth, tomato-based sauce
📝 Matt’s Favorite Pupusa Recipe (Serves 4)
🧂 Ingredients
For the dough:
- 2 cups masa harina
- 1½ cups warm water
- ½ tsp salt
Filling options (mix & match):
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or quesillo
- 1 cup refried beans
- ½ cup cooked, seasoned pork (chicharrón)
- Optional: sautéed squash or loroco for a floral, earthy flavor
🍳 Instructions
- Make the Dough:
Mix masa harina, salt, and water until smooth. Let rest 10 minutes. - Prepare Fillings:
Use your favorites or Matt’s go-to blend of cheese and beans. - Form & Fill:
Flatten golf ball–sized dough, add filling, seal, and press into patties. - Cook:
On a greased skillet, cook 3–4 mins per side until golden and fragrant.
🥗 Quick Curtido
Shred cabbage, carrots, and red onion. Add white vinegar, water, oregano, and salt. Let marinate for 1+ hour.
🍅 Simple Salsa Roja
Blend 2 tomatoes, garlic, onion, and a mild chili. Simmer 5 mins. Serve warm.
🎉 Bring Pupusas to Your Next Event
Want a unique twist for your corporate lunch or private party? Our catering team can build:
- A live pupusa bar with griddling on-site
- Mini pupusas as appetizers
- Fusion options inspired by Matt’s personal variations
📍 Available in Charleston, Columbia, Charlotte, and beyond.
