Deliciously Easy Colombian Arepas with Customizable Fillings Recipe

Introduction

Deliciously easy Colombian arepas are a versatile and satisfying dish perfect for any time of day. Made with simple ingredients and customizable fillings, these crispy yet soft cornmeal cakes bring a taste of Colombia right to your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cups arepa flour (masarepa) (Use pre-cooked cornmeal for best results.)
• 1 teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste.)
• 1.25 cups warm water (Hydrates the flour.)
• 2 tablespoons butter (Can substitute with vegan butter.)
• 1 cup cheese (queso fresco or mozzarella) (Feel free to use cheddar or gouda.)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (Essential for frying.)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of arepa flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add 1 ¼ cups of warm water while stirring until a soft dough forms.
2. Step 2: Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and knead it gently for about 5 minutes until soft and smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Divide the dough into 8 equal portions, roll each into a ball, and flatten each ball into a disk about ½-inch thick.
4. Step 4: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully cook the arepas for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Step 5: Remove arepas from skillet, cool slightly, slice open, and fill each with cheese. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, melt 2 tablespoons of butter into the dough before cooking.
• Try different fillings like shredded chicken, avocado, or beans for variety.
• If you prefer a crispier crust, finish cooking the arepas in a hot oven for 5 minutes after frying.

Storage

Store leftover arepas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat by warming them in a skillet until crispy again or in a toaster oven for best results. Avoid microwaving to retain texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What kind of flour is used for arepas?

Arepas are traditionally made with pre-cooked cornmeal called masarepa. It’s important to use the right type for the dough to hold together and cook properly.

Can I make arepas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and frying.

Deliciously Easy Colombian Arepas with Customizable Fillings Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 71 reviews

These Deliciously Easy Colombian Arepas are made with simple ingredients and cooked to golden perfection on the stovetop. The recipe features a soft, flavorful dough made from pre-cooked cornmeal and warm water, pan-fried to create crispy exteriors and tender interiors. Filled with melty cheese, these arepas can be customized with a variety of fillings to suit your taste, providing a versatile and satisfying dish perfect for breakfast, snack, or light meal.

• Author: Elias
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 arepas 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Colombian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Arepa Dough

• 2 cups arepa flour (masarepa) (Use pre-cooked cornmeal for best results.)
• 1 teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste.)
• 1.25 cups warm water (Hydrates the flour.)
• 2 tablespoons butter (Can substitute with vegan butter.)

For Cooking and Filling

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (Essential for frying.)
• 1 cup cheese (queso fresco or mozzarella; feel free to use cheddar or gouda)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of arepa flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add 1 ¼ cups of warm water while stirring until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead and Rest: Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and knead it gently for about 5 minutes until soft and smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 5 minutes to hydrate fully.
3. Shape the Arepas: Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten each ball into a disk approximately ½-inch thick.
4. Heat Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat to prepare for frying.
5. Cook the Arepas: Carefully place the arepas in the hot skillet and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until each side is golden brown and crispy.
6. Fill and Serve: Remove the arepas from the skillet, allow them to cool slightly, then slice open and fill each with your choice of cheese. Serve warm for best taste and texture.

Notes

• For a vegan version, substitute butter with vegan butter and use vegan cheese alternatives.
• You can customize the fillings beyond cheese – try avocado, shredded chicken, or beans.
• If you don’t have a skillet, a non-stick frying pan works just as well.
• Make sure to use pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa) for the right texture.
• These arepas are best eaten fresh but can be reheated on a skillet for crispiness.

Keywords: Colombian arepas, arepa recipe, easy arepas, cheesy arepas, casual Colombian food, pan-fried arepas, gluten-free arepas