Venezuelan-Style Arepas

Jun 08, 2023June 8, 20230 1

Venezuelan-Style Arepas for a filling meal any time of day

by The Chefin Main

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Ready In

45 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

8-10

Calories

220-260

Sugar

2-4g

Fat

8-10g

Arepas are a staple dish in Venezuela and neighboring countries, but have gained popularity worldwide due to their versatility and delicious taste. These corn cakes are made with masarepa cornmeal and can be filled with any combination of ingredients to create a satisfying meal. They can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and are a great snack option as well. Whether you prefer meat, cheese, veggies, or all of the above, arepas are a blank canvas for your culinary creations. They can be made in a variety of ways depending on the region and personal preference, making them a beloved food for many. With a crispy exterior and soft interior, arepas are an irresistible treat for anyone who loves food.

Instructions

1.	Begin by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2.	In a mixing bowl, combine the masarepa cornmeal, salt, flour, and sugar. Add warm water, buttermilk or milk, and melted butter, stir until a dough forms.
3.	Knead the dough for a few minutes, then let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the moisture to fully absorb.
4.	Form the dough into 8-10 dough balls and flatten them to form circular cakes.
5.	Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and cook the arepas for 5-7 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden crust.
6.	Once done cooking the arepas, transfer them to a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes.
7.	Remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing open and filling with your desired ingredients.
8.	Optional variations:
9.	-Mix some shredded cheese into the dough for a gooey, melted texture.
10.	-Add some sugar to the dough for a sweeter taste.

PROS

Arepas are extremely versatile and can be filled with your choice of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces.

They are a great gluten-free alternative to bread and can be enjoyed at any meal of the day.

Arepas are also very filling, making them a great option for a hearty lunch or dinner.

CONS

Arepas can be high in calories when filled with high-fat or high-calorie ingredients.

They can also be dense and dry if not cooked correctly or if the dough is not moist enough.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Arepas made with masarepa cornmeal are naturally gluten-free and a great source of complex carbohydrates.
They are also low in fat and contain essential vitamins and minerals such as iron and niacin, which supports metabolism and energy production. However, arepas are not very high in protein, so it is important to fill them with protein-rich ingredients like chicken, beans, or tofu to make them more balanced.

	2 cups masarepa cornmeal
	1 1/4 cups warm water
	1/2 cup milk or 1/2 cup buttermilk
	4 tablespoons butter , melted
	1 teaspoon salt
	2 tablespoons flour
	1/2 teaspoon sugar