feast!

I got to reminisce a little this weekend about my trip through Central America.  Capitol Hill regulars can now enjoy food from the Central American country of El Salvador.  Guanaco's Tacos Pupuseria has opened a second location to it's original restaurant located in University District.  The new place is located on 219 Broadway E inside the building that houses Table 219.

Although there are other things on the menu, a must try are the "pupusas."  "What are they?" you ask.  Well, these are deliciously handmade creations that start with a corn or rice flour dough that is patted into a thick disc shape and then stuffed with your choice of chicken, cheese, spinach, refried beans, fried pork, or zucchini.  Here's a peak at how Guanaco's makes them:

You can also try them stuffed with cheese and "loroco" for a truly authentic experience.  Loroco is a vine that is native to Central America.  Off of this vine, the unopened flowering buds are taken and used to stuff into a pupusa.  The loroco bud is slightly aromatic with the consistency that I would say resembles a tender broccoli stalk with a very slight nutty hint.  It's actually a good source of vitamins A, B, C, calcium, iron and fiber.  I'm surprised it doesn't get used more in gourmet cuisine.

Pupusas are served hot with a side of something called "curtido"  which I can best describe as a spicy cabbage slaw.  To eat, top the pupusas with the curtido add a bit of Guanaco's hot sauce and enjoy them with a side order of fried plantains with crema.

This is a great break from the usual and something you're sure to enjoy!  

 

 

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