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Crispy Arepas with Melty Cheese Filling

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A quick and easy homemade recipe for crispy arepas filled with melty cheese, perfect for any occasion and a comforting snack or meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240 g) precooked cornmeal (Harina P.A.N.)
  • 2 cups (475 ml) warm water
  • 1 teaspoon salt (kosher or sea salt recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil or butter for frying
  • Fresh mozzarella or queso blanco (about 1 tablespoon shredded per arepa)
  • Optional: pinch of sugar
  • Optional: sprinkle of garlic powder

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups (240 g) of precooked cornmeal with 1 teaspoon of salt.
  2. Slowly add 2 cups (475 ml) of warm water while stirring with a spoon or your hands until a soft but not sticky dough forms.
  3. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to fully absorb the water.
  4. Pinch off golf-ball-sized portions of dough (about 3.5 oz / 100 g each). Flatten each into a thick disc about 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter and 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) thick.
  5. Place a generous tablespoon of shredded mozzarella or queso blanco in the center of one disc. Top with another disc and seal the edges by pinching and smoothing to fully enclose the cheese.
  6. Warm 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of vegetable oil or butter over medium heat in a skillet until shimmering but not smoking.
  7. Cook the arepas in the hot pan for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, flipping carefully with a spatula.
  8. Check that the crust is deep golden and the cheese inside is melted and stretchy.
  9. Let the arepas cool for a minute or two before serving to enjoy the hot, gooey filling.

Notes

Use warm water to hydrate the cornmeal for tender dough. Seal edges well to prevent cheese leakage. Medium heat frying is best to achieve a crispy crust without burning. Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese and substitute vegetable oil with coconut oil if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: arepas, crispy arepas, cheese arepas, melty cheese filling, quick snack, Venezuelan recipe, cornmeal arepas, homemade arepas

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