Delight in a flavorful twist on a beloved Latin American classic with this 'Low Sodium Arepa with Shredded Beef' recipe. Perfect for those seeking heart-healthy options, this dish combines golden, pan-seared arepas made from pre-cooked cornmeal with tender, oven-braised beef chuck roast infused with aromatic garlic, cumin, and fresh cilantro. The low sodium beef broth and vibrant red bell peppers ensure maximum flavor without oversalting, while the creamy slices of avocado and zesty lime juice provide a refreshing finish. Ideal for a satisfying dinner or small celebration, these stuffed arepas are a wholesome way to enjoy bold flavors in a low-sodium diet. Whether you're new to making arepas or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to impress!
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Place the beef chuck roast in a baking dish or Dutch oven.
Chop the onion, garlic cloves, and red bell pepper, and add them to the dish with the beef.
Add cumin powder, black pepper, bay leaf, and pour low sodium beef broth over the ingredients.
Cover the dish with a lid or foil and braise in the oven for 3 hours or until the beef is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
While the beef is cooking, prepare the arepa dough by combining the pre-cooked cornmeal and water in a large mixing bowl.
Knead the dough gently until smooth, then divide it into 8 equal portions and shape each into a ball.
Flatten each ball into a disc about 1/2-inch thick.
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the arepas for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Once the beef is done, remove it from the oven, discard the bay leaf, and use two forks to shred the meat.
Mix the shredded meat with chopped cilantro to taste.
Open each arepa with a small knife, creating a pocket, and stuff them with the shredded beef.
Optionally, serve with slices of avocado and a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.
Calories |
3669 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 194.9 g | 250% | |
| Saturated Fat | 58.1 g | 290% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 510 mg | 170% | |
| Sodium | 757 mg | 33% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 313.3 g | 114% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 45.7 g | 163% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.2 g | ||
| Protein | 191.8 g | 384% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 748 mg | 58% | |
| Iron | 31.6 mg | 176% | |
| Potassium | 5042 mg | 107% | |
*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.