Deliciously Easy Colombian Arepas with Customizable Fillings Recipe

Introduction

Arepas are a beloved staple in Colombian cuisine—simple, satisfying, and versatile. This easy recipe guides you through making soft, golden arepas filled with melty cheese, perfect for a quick meal or snack.

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 the arepa flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water while stirring until a soft dough forms.
2. Step 2: Turn the dough onto a clean surface and knead 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 portion into a ball, then flatten into a disk about ½-inch thick.
4. Step 4: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each arepa for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Step 5: Remove the arepas from the skillet and let them cool slightly. Slice open and fill with cheese. Serve warm and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding herbs like cilantro or stuffed fillings such as shredded chicken or avocado.
• Use vegan butter and dairy-free cheese to make this recipe dairy-free.
• Brush arepas with butter immediately after frying for a richer taste and softer crust.
• If the dough feels too dry, add a little more warm water; if too sticky, sprinkle a bit more arepa flour.

Storage

Store leftover arepas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze arepas for later?

Yes, you can freeze cooked arepas. Let them cool completely, then wrap individually and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

What is the difference between arepa flour and regular cornmeal?

Arepa flour (masarepa) is precooked cornmeal, which absorbs water to form a pliable dough. Regular cornmeal is not precooked and will not produce the same texture if used in this recipe.

Deliciously Easy Colombian Arepas with Customizable Fillings Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 74 reviews

These deliciously easy Colombian arepas are made from pre-cooked cornmeal and can be customized with your favorite fillings. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they are quick to prepare and perfect for any meal or snack.

• Author: Marco
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• 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.)

Frying

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (Essential for frying.)

Filling

• 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 the dough: 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 into a ball, and flatten each ball into a disk about ½-inch thick for even cooking.
4. Cook the arepas: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the arepas in the skillet and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they turn a golden brown color, becoming crispy on the outside.
5. Fill and serve: Remove the arepas from the skillet and let them cool slightly. Then slice open each arepa and fill with 1 cup of cheese—queso fresco, mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda works well. Serve warm for best taste.

Notes

• You can substitute butter with vegan butter to make this recipe dairy-free.
• Feel free to customize the filling with meats, beans, or vegetables for variety.
• Ensure not to overcook the arepas; golden brown color indicates perfect crispiness.
• Use pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa) specifically for authentic texture and ease.

Keywords: Arepas, Colombian Arepas, Cornmeal, Cheese Arepas, Traditional Colombian Recipe, Easy Arepas, Fried Arepas