Low Sodium Arepa con Queso
Delight your taste buds with this Low Sodium Arepa con Queso recipe, a healthier twist on the beloved Latin American classic. Made with fresh, creamy mozzarella cheese and encased in a golden, crisp shell of masa arepa, these cheese-filled cornmeal patties are perfect for those seeking bold flavor without excess sodium. The use of unsalted butter and olive oil keeps the recipe heart-healthy, while the simple ingredients create a quick and satisfying meal in just 35 minutes. Enjoy these arepas fresh off the skillet as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, and savor the gooey cheese melt with each bite! Perfect for low-sodium diets, this dish proves that you don't need to compromise on taste to eat mindfully.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups precooked white cornmeal (masa arepa)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2.5 cups water
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, pour 2.5 cups of water. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and allow it to melt, which will help soften the dough.
Gradually add 2 cups of precooked white cornmeal (masa arepa) into the water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, and ensure a smooth dough.
Knead the dough with your hands for about 3 to 5 minutes until it is well mixed and has a smooth, pliable texture. If too dry, add a bit more water; if too wet, add a little more cornmeal.
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Flatten each ball gently with your hands to form a disc about 1/2-inch thick and approximately 4 inches in diameter.
Place a few tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese onto one disc and cover with another disc, pressing the edges to seal and ensure the cheese is fully encased.
Repeat the process with the remaining dough and cheese until you have four filled arepas.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the arepas for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown, crisp on the outside, and the cheese inside has melted.
Remove from the skillet and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm, as the melted mozzarella is best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
456 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 52.0 g | 67% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.3 g | 92% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 23 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.0 g | ||
| Protein | 0.2 g | 0% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 42 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 0.2 mg | 1% | |
| Potassium | 6 mg | 0% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
