Instructions: Place masa in bowl. Stir in water. Knead dough into ball. In small saute pan, cook plantain in 2 teaspoons olive oil until golden color.

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in medium saucepan. Cook beef until brown. Pour off liquid. Add peppers, onions, garlic and jalapenos and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add tomato paste, wine, beef broth and cilantro. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring often. Drain liquid and stir in fried plantain.

Roll 2 tablespoons of dough into ball, then place between two pieces of plastic wrap. Flatten on board to 3-inch diameter. Continue until you have 16 rounds. Place 1 tablespoon of filling in center, add tablespoon of cheese and put second dough circle on top. Press down to seal.

Heat pan with 1/3 cup olive oil and fry pupusas, 5 minutes per side. Place in 400 degree oven for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and heated through.

This recipe yields 4 servings.

Comments: One of El Salvadors great passions, pupusas are pancake-shaped pockets with a thinly crusted exterior that are stuffed with warm, succulent meat, cheese and even flowers. For sweeter tastes, use ground yellow cornmeal instead of masa and fill with berries or fruit.

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