Low Sodium Arepa with Shredded Beef and Cheese
Delight in the irresistible flavors of this Low Sodium Arepa with Shredded Beef and Cheese! Packed with wholesome ingredients and designed for a heart-healthy diet, this recipe transforms traditional arepas into a guilt-free indulgence by combining tender, slow-simmered beef with a fragrant blend of cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, and fresh vegetables. The crispy, golden arepas are made with pre-cooked cornmeal and olive oil, creating the perfect vessel for the juicy shredded beef and creamy low-sodium cheese filling. Ready in just over two hours, this satisfying dish is ideal for any occasion, whether as a comforting dinner or a crowd-pleasing snack. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor to complete this delicious and nutritious Latin-inspired meal.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Arepa flour (pre-cooked cornmeal)
- 2.5 cups Warm water
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 pound Boneless beef chuck
- 1 medium Onion
- 3 units Garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 1 unit Bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 2 cups Water (for beef)
- 1 unit Red bell pepper
- 1 cup Low-sodium cheese (such as mozzarella or Swiss)
- 0.25 cup Cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Start by preparing the shredded beef. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the beef with ground black pepper. Add the beef to the pot, searing on all sides until browned.
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften.
Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaf.
Mix in the tomato paste and pour 2 cups of water over the mixture. Bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1.5 hours until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
While the beef is cooking, prepare the arepas. Mix the arepa flour with 2.5 cups of warm water in a bowl.
Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and mix until a smooth dough forms, letting it rest for 5 minutes.
Divide the dough into eight portions, shaping each into a 1/2-inch thick disk.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the arepas for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Once the beef is done, shred it using two forks. Allow the cooking liquid to reduce if necessary. Adjust seasoning with additional black pepper if desired.
Cut the arepas in half horizontally, like a pocket, and fill each with shredded beef and cheese.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if using.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2451 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 124.6 g | 160% | |
| Saturated Fat | 41.4 g | 207% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 318 mg | 106% | |
| Sodium | 406 mg | 18% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 226.9 g | 83% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.6 g | 77% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.8 g | ||
| Protein | 105.8 g | 212% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 251 mg | 19% | |
| Iron | 23.6 mg | 131% | |
| Potassium | 3012 mg | 64% | |
*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.
