Description
Authentic Venezuelan Arepas are a delicious and versatile dish made from precooked cornmeal, perfect for filling with various ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups precooked cornmeal (such as P.A.N. or Masarepa)
- 2 ½ cups warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the precooked cornmeal and salt. Gradually add the warm water, mixing with your hands or a spoon until a dough forms. If using, add the vegetable oil for extra moisture and flavor.
- Knead the dough gently for about 2-3 minutes until it is smooth and pliable. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water; if too wet, sprinkle in a bit more cornmeal.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disc about ½ inch thick.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the arepas for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Once cooked, you can either serve them immediately or finish them in a preheated oven at 350°F for an additional 10 minutes to ensure they are cooked through.
- Let the arepas cool slightly before slicing them open to fill with your favorite ingredients, such as cheese, avocado, or shredded meat.
Notes
- For a cheesy twist, mix in ½ cup of shredded cheese into the dough before shaping the arepas.
- Try different fillings like black beans, pulled pork, or a simple avocado and tomato salad for a delicious variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Venezuelan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 arepa
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Authentic Venezuelan Arepas, Arepas, Venezuelan cuisine