Authentic Venezuelan Arepas

corn flour

🥗Healthier: whole grain corn flour

💰Cheaper: cornmeal

Whole grain corn flour is more nutritious, while cornmeal is often less expensive.

cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Low-fat cheese offers a healthier option, while processed cheese can be more budget-friendly.

meat

🥗Healthier: lean turkey

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Lean turkey is a healthier protein choice, while chicken thighs are often cheaper than other cuts.

Mix 2 cups of cornmeal with 1 teaspoon of salt in a bowl.

Add 2 and a half cups of water to the mixture and mix with your hands until it starts to thicken.

Let the dough rest for 5-10 minutes covered with a cloth.

After resting, mix the dough again and adjust with more water if it feels too dry.

Shape the dough into little balls, making sure they are all around the same size.

Flatten the balls into discs, ensuring they are smooth and round without cracks.

Heat a cast iron pan over medium heat and add a little oil to prevent sticking.

Place three discs in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes without touching them.

After 4-5 minutes, flip the arepas and cook for another 4-5 minutes until they are darker.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and transfer the seared arepas to the oven.

Bake the arepas for 7-10 minutes on each side, checking for a hollow sound to indicate they are done.

Remove the arepas from the oven and cut them open carefully with a knife.

Spread butter inside the arepa and fill with black beans and cheddar cheese.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens