About the Recipe
The process of making arepas involves mixing the ingredients to form a dough, shaping the dough into patties, and then cooking them on a griddle or in a skillet until they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
These golden discs of goodness can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or meal, or they can be used as a base for a variety of fillings. From savoury options like shredded beef, avocado, and black beans to sweet combinations like cheese and guava paste, the possibilities are endless.
Ingredients
480 ml warm water
1 tsp sea salt
300 g Areparina/cornmeal (mixed white and yellow)
oil / butter for cooking
Preparation
Preheat oven to 180 C. Set out a baking sheet and line with parchment paper.
Add water and salt & Stir to combine.
A little at a time, add the areparina and stir with a whisk or your hands (our preferred method). You’re looking for a dough that doesn’t easily stick to your hands, is moldable and moist, and can be rolled into a ball. Once you have that consistency, cover with a towel for 5 minutes.
Uncover, grab a large handful of dough, and roll into a ball (6 large / 8-10 small).
Roll/press the dough to form into a roughly 1/2-inch thick disc
Heat a large cast-iron or non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
Cook for 2-3 minutes or until deep golden brown (a few blackened spots are OK). You’re looking to form a crust on both sides
Transfer to your parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes or until slightly puffed up and a little more golden brown in color.
Notes:
Adding spices work very well in this recipe (like chilli, cumin seed or coriander).