Arepas

Cheese Arepa with Guacamole and Egg

These delicious Colombian arepas are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and incredibly easy to make! Whether you're new to South American cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will bring the vibrant flavors of Colombia straight to your kitchen.

These cheese-filled Colombian arepas are a perfect blend of crispy and cheesy goodness! Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, they’re a great way to experience authentic flavors. Whether you’re new to arepas or looking for a twist on a classic, this recipe will become a favorite in no time!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250g) pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa)

• 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) salt

• 1 Tbs (15ml) butter (softened)

• 1-1/2 cups (360ml) warm water

• sliced cheese (mozzarella, queso blanco, provolone, or any melting cheese of your choice)

• 2 tbsp (30ml) butter (for cooking)

Optional:

• Extra butter for spreading on top

• Guacamole for sprinkling over the cooked arepas (recipe below)

• Fried egg (to your liking) to top the cooked arepas

This simple ingredient list makes it easy to create delicious, cheesy arepas!

Prep time: 10 minutes / Cooking time: 15-20 minutes

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa) and salt. Add the softened butter.

2. Add water: Gradually pour in the warm water while stirring with your hands or a spoon until the dough starts to come together.

3. Rest the dough: Let the dough rest for about 5 minutes to fully hydrate.

4. Knead: After resting, knead the dough until it's smooth and free of lumps. The dough should be soft but very sticky.

5. Form arepas: Using wet hands, divide the dough into equal portions, roll into balls, and flatten each ball into discs about ½ inch thick.

6. Cook the arepas: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the arepas for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and slightly crispy.

7. Slice and fill: Once the arepas are cooked, slice them open and place a slice of cheese inside. Return the arepas to the skillet for a minute or two to melt the cheese.

Ingredients for guacamole:

• 2 ripe avocados

• Salt to taste

• Black pepper to taste

• 1 lime, juiced

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 1-2 plum tomatoes, seeded & diced

• Bunch of fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, finely chopped (optional for heat)

  Optional: A dash of ground cumin for extra flavor

This combination of ingredients will give you a fresh, flavorful guacamole!

1. Prepare the avocados: Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, score, and scoop the flesh into a bowl.

2. Mash: Mash the avocados with a fork to your desired consistency (smooth or chunky).

3. Season: Add lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well.

4. Add ingredients: Stir in the chopped onion, tomatoes, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro.

5. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with more lime juice or salt if needed.