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5.0 from 36 votes

Arepas Recipe (How to Make Arepas)

Arepas are delicious corn cakes that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, great for stuffing with cheese or meats, so easy to make with only 3 ingredients! They are very versatile. Learn how to make them.

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Servings: 10
Calories: 83 kcal
Course: Main Course , Appetizer
Cuisine: Venezuelan , Colombian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups masarepa
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2.5 cups warm water (or more as needed)
  • Oil or butter for cooking as needed

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Combine the masarepa, salt and water together in a mixing bowl. Mix well and let rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Mix the dough again until smooth. It should have the consistency of playdough and not stick to your hands. If it is too dry, add a tablespoon of water and mix until smooth.
  3. Hand form the arepas dough into 8-10 small patties, about 4-5 inches across and ½ inch thick.
  4. Heat a grill pan or cast iron pan to medium heat and lightly oil or butter. Cook the arepas until golden brown on each side, about 10 minutes total. The outer shell will harden and form a crisp crust, with a softer or hollow interior. (NOTE: You can also pan cook them until crispy on the outside, then finish them in your oven or air fryer at 350 degrees F/177C for 8-10 minutes).
  5. Cool slightly and serve as desired.

Notes

  • Top or stuff with your favorite meats or cheeses, or simply serve with butter or cream.
  • Makes 8-10 arepas or more, depending on the size. Colombian arepas are 3-5 inches in diameter and 1/4 inch thick. Venezuelan arepas are 3-5 inches in diameter and 3/4 inch thick. Cooking times will depend on the chosen thickness.
  • A popular variation is to add shredded cheese to the batter before making the arepas. Adds a wonderful cheesy flavor.
  • Note: Calories estimated without cooking oil or butter, or with any toppings.

Nutrition Information

Calories 83kcal (4%) Carbohydrates 17g (6%) Protein 2g (4%) Fat 1g (2%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Sodium 237mg (10%) Potassium 60mg (2%) Fiber 1g (4%) Vitamin A 49IU (1%) Calcium 33mg (3%) Iron 2mg (11%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 10Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 83

% Daily Value*

Calories 83kcal 4%
Carbohydrates 17g 6%
Protein 2g 4%
Fat 1g 2%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Sodium 237mg 10%
Potassium 60mg 1%
Fiber 1g 4%
Vitamin A 49IU 1%
Calcium 33mg 3%
Iron 2mg 11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.