Arepas

Ingredients

• 300 g pre-cooked white cornmealSubstitute: masarepa
• 350 ml warm water
• 1 tsp salt
• 30 g butterSubstitute: oil
• 150 g mozzarella cheeseSubstitute: queso fresco
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix cornmeal with warm water, salt, and melted butter. Knead for 2 minutes until a smooth dough forms with no cracks.

2. 2

   Let dough rest 5 minutes for the cornmeal to fully hydrate.

3. 3

   Divide into 8 balls and flatten into discs about 1.5cm thick and 10cm across.

4. 4

   For arepas de queso, stuff a ball of cheese inside each disc and seal.

5. 5

   Heat a lightly oiled griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.

6. 6

   Cook arepas 5-6 minutes per side until a golden crust forms and they sound hollow when tapped.

7. 7

   Serve hot — split open and stuff with butter, cheese, hogao, or shredded chicken.