Cheap Eats: Pupuseria La Bendicion

For a simple Salvadorian treat, pupusas ($1.90) are actually quite the meal — especially the hand-formed corn flour pockets coming from behind the counter at Pupuseria La Bendicion. Stuffed with cheese, refried beans, pork or a combo of any of the above, the corny, buttery discs are fried to a crisp on the strip mall spot’s flattop grill, and crackle open at the table to reveal rivers of cheese for a diversification of texture. Cut the richness with the accompanying curtido — crunchy, lightly fermented cabbage slaw full of vinegar and spicy chilies — and a mildly refreshing tomato salsa. As tiny as El Salvador itself, La Bendicion satisfies our appetites but leaves our pockets unfazed. Also Try: The carnitas soft tacos ($2) are traditionally prepared: fried shredded pork, topped with chopped onions and served with lime slices. And if you’re thinking breakfast-for-dinner, the three eggs and pork sausage platter ($8) served with beans and ripe plantains will satisfy. 3685 W. 105th St., Cleveland, 216-688-0338