Description
Homemade arepas with a crispy golden crust and soft interior, stuffed with melty cheese for a comforting, gluten-free dish perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pre-cooked cornmeal (white or yellow)
- 2 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or any melting cheese)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter (for cooking)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix warm water and salt until dissolved.
- Gradually add the pre-cooked cornmeal, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to hydrate properly.
- Divide the dough into 6–8 portions and roll into balls.
- Flatten each ball into a disc about 1/2 inch thick.
- Slice each disc halfway to create a pocket and fill with shredded cheese, then seal gently.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or butter.
- Cook the arepas for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Optional: transfer to a 180°C (350°F) oven for 10 minutes for a softer interior.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked cornmeal (masa harina or masarepa) for proper texture.
- If dough is too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time.
- You can mix cheese directly into the dough for extra flavor.
- Try fillings like shredded chicken, vegetables, or minced meat.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Latin American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 arepa
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
