Arepas are a tasty and versatile treat that can be enjoyed any time of day! Made from cornmeal and cooked to perfection, these golden cakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Whether filled with cheese, meats, or veggies, arepas are a simple and satisfying dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or even a full meal!
Pour salt and cornmeal into a bowl. Add the oil and water. You may need a little less or more water. Knead the dough. The structure of corn dough is not malleable, resembling wet sand.
Divide the dough into 4 portions. Form into rounds. Pan fry for 3 to 4 minutes until golden on both sides.
Prepare the filling. Slice cheese, tomato in half rings, pepper in thin rings.
Slice them with a knife so that you get pockets. Place the filling and serve.Step 5: Add Filling and ServeDo not make them for future use; they are best not stored. Bon Appetit!
Do not make them for future use; they are best not stored. Bon Appetit!
Notes
While I've used white corn meal to make them, if you are able to get your hands on masa harina, I would highly recommend it.
Arepa flour is actually precooked cornmeal. Remember that corn flour is not the same as pre cooked cornmeal.
I would recommend letting the dough rest for a few minutes before you proceed to use it to make the arepas. Simply transfer the dough to a large bowl and cover it with plastic wrap to keep it nice and moist.
They should be about an inch thick when they're rolled out.
While they aren't traditionally deep fried, you can actually do that if you really want to. Just remember to stick to medium heat when you're frying them.
You can also make them in a toaster oven if you want to. Just make sure you place each dough ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to keep it from sticking to the surface.
I would highly recommend the skillet method to make arepas. All you need to do is use a good quality cast iron skillet, and cook them on medium high heat until they're golden brown on both sides.
Remember to let the cooked arepas rest for a while before you slice it and add the fillings in.