Authentic Arepas Recipe: Unveiling the irresistible flavors of this Latin delicacy!

Arepas, a famous Venezuelan and Colombian cuisine, is corn patties stuffed with all kinds of fillings. This delicacy was being cooked by indigenous hundreds of years ago and is just as popular today, finding them in all corners of the U.S. Arepas are good as a main dish, as a side dish, as a snack, as breakfast or late-night food. They are one of the most versatile dishes in Latin America. 

Ingredients: 

• 2 cups water, warm
• 2 cups corn flour 
• 1 tsp salt 
• 1 tbsp oil

Directions: 

Preheat the oven to 100 degrees Celsius or 212 degrees Fahrenheit.

In a bowl, mix water and salt. Add flour and mix with a spoon or fork. Continue to mix until the water is completely absorbed and the mixture is thick enough. The mixture is ready when it no longer sticks to our hands. 

With some dough, roll into balls the size of meatballs. Press each ball until it is about 1.5 cm thick and round. 

Heat a pan with a little bit of oil over medium heat. Add each arepa and cook for 14 to 20 minutes, constantly flipping. It is recommended to do this step in batches of four. Once golden, move to a baking pan and place in the oven. 

Stuffing your arepas 

What to fill your arepas with? Easy. Here is a list of ideas: 

• Yellow cheese
• Reina Pepiada: shredded chicken with onion, avocado, and mayo. 
• Rumberas: with pork and cheese. 
• Egg: add tomato, onion, salt, and pepper to scrambled eggs. 
• Refried beans and fried plantain
• La llanera: beef strips with avocado and cheese 
• Ham and cheese 
• Avocado or guacamole 
• Tuna 
• Eggs 
• Smoked salmon and cheese