How to Make Arepas (3 Ingredients!)

Arepas, a traditional dish from Colombia and Venezuela, are versatile and delicious. They can be enjoyed at any time of the day, whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Made from just three basic ingredients—precooked cornmeal, water, and salt—arepas are both simple to prepare and delightful to eat. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making perfect arepas, share tips for achieving the best texture and flavor, and explore different ways to serve and enjoy them.

Ingredients for Making Arepas

To start, let's gather the essential ingredients:

• Precooked Cornmeal (Masarepa): This is the key ingredient for making arepas. It is different from regular cornmeal and can be found in most Latin American grocery stores or online.
• Water: Necessary to hydrate the cornmeal and form the dough.
• Salt: For seasoning the dough.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Arepas

1. Preparing the Dough

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of precooked cornmeal (masarepa)
• 2 ½ cups of warm water
• 1 teaspoon of salt

Instructions:

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and salt. Gradually add the precooked cornmeal while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

2. Knead the Dough: Once the mixture starts to come together, use your hands to knead the dough until it is smooth and free of lumps. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time. If it's too wet, add a bit more cornmeal.

3. Rest the Dough: Let the dough rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the cornmeal to fully absorb the water, making it easier to shape the arepas.

2. Shaping the Arepas

Instructions:

1. Divide the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into equal portions. Typically, this recipe makes about 8 arepas, but you can make them smaller or larger according to your preference.

2. Shape the Arepas: Roll each portion into a ball, then gently flatten it into a disc. The discs should be about ½ inch thick and around 4-5 inches in diameter.

3. Cooking the Arepas

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. You can lightly grease the pan with a small amount of oil or butter if desired.

2. Cook the Arepas: Place the arepas on the preheated skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. The arepas should sound hollow when tapped.

3. Finish in the Oven (Optional): For a crispier exterior and fluffy interior, you can finish cooking the arepas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Arepas

• Use Warm Water: Warm water helps the cornmeal to hydrate more effectively, resulting in a softer dough.
• Consistent Thickness: Ensure all arepas are of the same thickness to cook evenly.
• Don't Overwork the Dough: Knead just until smooth. Overworking can make the arepas dense.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on the size and thickness of your arepas, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Serving Arepas

Arepas are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

1. Classic Arepas

• Plain Arepas: Serve them hot, straight from the pan, with a pat of butter.
• Cheese Arepas: Add a slice of cheese on top while the arepas are still hot, allowing it to melt slightly.

2. Filled Arepas

• Reina Pepiada: A popular Venezuelan filling made with shredded chicken, avocado, and mayonnaise.
• Queso y Jamón: Fill your arepas with ham and cheese for a simple yet delicious meal.

3. Arepa Sandwiches

• Breakfast Arepas: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and avocado.
• Lunch or Dinner Arepas: Use as a base for pulled pork, beef, or vegetarian fillings like black beans and plantains.

Variations of Arepas

While the classic arepas are made with the basic three ingredients, you can add variety to your arepas by incorporating different flavors and ingredients into the dough:

1. Cheese Arepas (Arepas de Queso)

• Ingredients: Add 1 cup of grated cheese (such as mozzarella or queso blanco) to the dough mixture before shaping.

2. Sweet Arepas

• Ingredients: Add 2 tablespoons of sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough for a sweeter version, perfect for breakfast or dessert.

3. Herb Arepas

• Ingredients: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or thyme into the dough for a flavorful twist.

Storing and Reheating Arepas

Storing:

• Refrigeration: Store cooked arepas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked arepas by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Skillet: Reheat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.
• Oven: Place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: For a quick option, microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, though this method may not retain the original texture.

Health Benefits of Arepas

Arepas can be a healthy addition to your diet:

• Gluten-Free: Made from cornmeal, arepas are naturally gluten-free.
• High in Fiber: Cornmeal provides dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health.
• Versatile Nutrition: Depending on the fillings, arepas can be a source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Conclusion

Arepas are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. With just three basic ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and customizable to suit your taste. Whether served plain, filled with your favorite ingredients, or as a sandwich, arepas are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.