Skip to main content

Arepas

3.4

(4)

Image may contain Food Bread Plant and Cracker
ArepasMarcus Nilsson

Serve these South American cornmeal cakes with a side of pico de gallo or fresh corn salsa.

TIP :

Tell first-time arepa eaters that a "surprise" awaits them inside the cake.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 6

Ingredients

2 cups precooked masarepa cornmeal
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups hot chicken broth or water
1/2 cup canned black or pinto beans, drained
1/2 cup shredded cheese (Jack, cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    1. Combine the cornmeal and salt in a bowl.

    Step 2

    2. Add the broth (or water). Mix until a dough with no lumps forms.

    Step 3

    3. When it's cool enough to touch, use your hands to divide it into 8 pieces. Cover them with a damp towel.

    Step 4

    4. Heat a lightly greased large griddle. Dip your hands in cold water (to prevent sticking) and roll each dough piece into a ball. Using your fingers, make an indentation in the center of each.

    Step 5

    5. Push a teaspoon each of beans and cheese into each ball. Pinch the dough around the filling to enclose it.

    Step 6

    6. Flatten each ball to 1 inch thick between your palms.

    Step 7

    7. Cook them on the griddle until crisp, about 3 minutes a side.

Read More
Apple pie in doughnut hole form? We’re in love.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
From Italian wedding soup with escarole to green smoothies with kale.
Filberts, goobers, scaly bark nuts: Explore the world beyond almonds in this guide.
Like crispy gnocchi caprese and raspberry—brown butter skillet cake.
The secret to flavorful, never-greasy eggplant parm? Brine the eggplant first.
Like hot honey chicken with peaches and a dirty martini spritz.
Our go-to banana bread recipe is moist, nutty, and incredibly easy to make.