Homemade Arepas
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Additional Time
5 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
12 arepas
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Calories
142 kcal
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Course
Appetizer
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Cuisine
Venezuelan
Homemade Arepas
Description
This recipe crafts traditional arepas using masarepa, a pre-cooked cornmeal. Combining the masarepa with warm water and kosher salt forms a dough that rests briefly to hydrate fully. The dough is portioned into balls and gently pressed into half-inch thick discs.
The discs are cooked in vegetable oil over low heat, allowing them to crisp and brown evenly without burning. They are flipped to cook the other side fully and can develop golden crusts with some blackened spots indicating caramelization. Optionally, slicing and baking them further at 350°F improves internal cooking and texture.
Arepas can be eaten plain, stuffed with fillings such as cheese or meats, or served alongside various dishes. They provide a firm yet tender bite with slightly crisp edges.
If using white cornmeal instead of masarepa, less water is needed. Adjust the dough consistency to be slightly dry yet combined by adding water tablespoon by tablespoon. Adding shredded cheese into the dough is an option to enrich flavor. Arepas may also be deep-fried for a different crispness.
Ingredients
- 2 cups masarepa * (pre cooked corn meal)
- 2 ½ cups water warm
- 1 ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the Masarapa, water, and salt until fully combined. Pack the mixture together and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat a large castiron skillet with vegetable oil.
- Measure out 1/4 cup-sized portions and roll into a ball with your hands, then gently press and shape them into discs that are about 1/2 inch thick.
- Place the discs in the hot oil and allow them to cook over low heat until they begin to turn golden brown/black. Flip and repeat, adding additional oil as needed so they don't stick.
- If you want to slice them in half, you'll want to bake them for about 10 minutes at 350F on a large baking sheet. Enjoy hot.
Notes
- Using white cornmeal requires about 2 cups of water instead of 2 ½ cups.
- Add water gradually to achieve a slightly dry but well-combined dough consistency.
- Optional: Add up to 1 cup shredded cheese to the dough for added flavor.
- Arepas can also be deep-fried instead of pan-fried for a different texture.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12arepas
Amount Per Serving
Calories 142 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 142 | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 19g | 6% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Fat | 6g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Sodium | 294mg | 12% |
| Potassium | 85mg | 2% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Calcium | 3mg | 0% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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