Traditional Colombian Arepa Recipe
This traditional Colombian arepa recipe is easy and quick to prepare, it just takes about 30 minutes and you'll be enjoying Colombia's favorite bread. Arepas are Crispy with a soft texture, they are the quintessential cornbread that you find in every Colombian home. Made with precooked cornmeal, these arepas are stuffed with cheese and are completely gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Pre-cooked cornmeal 280 grams
- 2 cups water lukewarm (480 grams)
- 1 teaspoon salt 5 grams
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 45 grams at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups grated mozzarella cheese 180 grams
- 3 tablespoon canola oil 40 grams
Instructions
- Add the cornmeal, salt, butter, and water into a large bowl and mix together using your fingers to a spatula until the cornmeal absorbs all the liquids and begins to turn into a dough.
- Pat the dough down and cover with a cloth or plastic and rest for 15 minutes.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal parts and roll and shape them into balls, then flatten them to about 5 inches in diameter and place them onto a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Fill the center of the one disc with the shredded mozzarella cheese, then place another disc on top. Seal the edges by pressing them together and patting them along the sides to avoid cheese from seeping out during the cooking process.
- Add the oil to a skillet or cast iron pan and heat on a medium-high setting. The oil is ready when you notice ripples along the surface.
- Carefully add the arepas and cook each side for about 4 minutes or until golden brown.
- Transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel to remove excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy!!
