The Ultimate Guide to Making Arepas con Queso: A Beginner’s Delight

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water – Helps activate the corn flour and bind the dough.
• 1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness and a softer texture to the dough.
• Pinch of salt – Enhances flavor.
• 1.5 cups masarepa (instant white corn flour) – The key ingredient for arepas. Look for brands like Goya or P.A.N.
• 1 pound mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded – Melts beautifully inside the arepas.
• Oil for cooking – Helps create a crispy golden crust.

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir to mix.

2. 2

   Slowly add half of the masarepa, mixing with your hands or a spoon. Continue adding the remaining masarepa until a soft, pliable dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add small amounts of water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a smooth consistency.

3. 3

   Mix half of the shredded cheese into the dough. Knead for about 5 minutes to evenly distribute the cheese and ensure a cohesive dough.

4. 4

   Divide the dough into six equal pieces, each about the size of a baseball.

5. 5

   Take one dough ball and flatten it slightly in your palm, creating a small crater in the center.

6. 6

   Place a tablespoon of shredded cheese inside the crater and carefully seal the dough around the cheese.

7. 7

   Flatten the sealed dough ball into a thick patty, about ½ inch thick. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.

8. 8

   Heat a cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a thin layer of oil.

9. 9

   Place the arepas in the pan and cook for 3 minutes on one side until golden brown.

10. 10

    Flip once and cook for another 3 minutes. The arepas should have a crisp crust and a soft interior.

11. 11

    Remove from heat and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.