Authentic Venezuelan Arepas

Ingredients

• 2 cups (340g) pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa) 2 cups (340g) pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa)
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups (590ml) warm water 2 1/2 cups (590ml) warm water
• Filling ingredients of your choice (shredded beef, chicken, black beans, cheese, avocado, plantains, etc.) Filling ingredients of your choice (shredded beef, chicken, black beans, cheese, avocado, plantains, etc.)
• Cooking oil for greasing Cooking oil for greasing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 0g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the pre-cooked cornmeal and salt.
2. 2.
   Gradually add warm water to the cornmeal mixture while stirring with a spoon or your hands. Continue adding water until the dough comes together and is smooth and pliable.
3. 3.
   Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to allow the cornmeal to fully hydrate.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. 5.
   Flatten each ball into a disc shape, about 1/2 inch (1.3cm) thick.
6. 6.
   Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with cooking oil.
7. 7.
   Cook the arepas for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. 8.
   Once cooked, carefully slice each arepa horizontally, creating a pocket for the filling.
9. 9.
   Fill the arepas with your desired ingredients, such as shredded beef, chicken, black beans, cheese, avocado, or plantains.
10. 10.
    Serve the arepas warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa) — Make sure to use pre-cooked cornmeal specifically labeled as "masarepa" for the best results. Regular cornmeal or corn flour will not yield the same texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of garlic powder or cumin to the cornmeal mixture.
• If the dough feels too dry, add a little more warm water. If it feels too wet, add a little more cornmeal.
• To ensure even cooking, make sure the griddle or skillet is preheated before adding the arepas.
• If you prefer a softer texture, you can steam the arepas instead of cooking them on a griddle or skillet.
• Leftover arepas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in a toaster or oven.

Serving advice

Serve the arepas warm with your favorite hot sauce or salsa on the side for an extra kick of flavor. They can be enjoyed as a main course with a side salad or as a snack on their own.

Presentation advice

Arrange the filled arepas on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese, to make them visually appealing. Serve them on colorful plates or banana leaves to add a touch of authenticity to your presentation.