Arepas with a Twist

cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: queso blanco

Low-fat cheese reduces calories while maintaining flavor.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier and adds a distinct flavor.

arepa flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornmeal

Whole wheat flour increases fiber content.

baking powder

Baking powder is essential for fluffiness.

Cook the beets in salted water until soft, then drain and rinse with cold water.

Peel the beets while warm and blend with a splash of water to make a puree.

In a bowl, mix fine precooked cornmeal, salt, pumpkin or sunflower seeds, and beet puree.

Add water slowly and mix, then add cheese and knead until smooth.

Let the dough rest for about 5 minutes.

Roll a small amount of dough into a ball and flatten to form a disc.

Heat a cast iron or nonstick pan over medium-high heat and drizzle with oil.

Cook the discs for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

For freezing, cook the arepas, let cool, wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens