Salvadorean Pupusas

Description
This is an easy tropical dish that is full of flavor! I like to serve it with chips, or as a side dish. It would be easy to try slightly different versions by adding lime juice, ginger, pineapple, or jalapenos, depending on your personal taste. If you have any other suggestions, I would love to hear them! Thanks!

Ingredients

 * 5 cups masa harina
 * 4 cups water, approximately
 * 16-24 ounces canned refried beans
 * ground beef or pork rinds to taste
 * 3 cups soft white cheese
 * light vegetable oil or light olive oil

Directions

 * 1) In a large mixing bowl, gradually stir water into masa harina until dough forms a ball that can be handled.
 * 2) Into another bowl, empty the refried beans. Place the grated cheese into a separate bowl.
 * 3) Divide dough into about 25 pieces. Roll each into a ball and flatten between the palms of your hands to about 1/2-inch thick. Put a spoonful of beans and a small handful of cheese into the center of each pupusa (ground beef or pork rinds optional). Flatten again with the filling inside.
 * 4) Heat a heavy, wide-bottomed or flat skillet until hot. Brush with oil and cook pupusas on each side 4-5 minutes until a pale golden-brown. The outside should be firm.