Traditional Arepas
Discover the delightful simplicity of **Traditional Arepas**, a cherished staple from Venezuelan and Colombian cuisine that's perfect for any meal or snack. These golden cornmeal discs are made with just a handful of ingredients—precooked white cornmeal (Harina PAN), warm water, salt, and a touch of vegetable oil—making them naturally gluten-free and wonderfully versatile. Prepared in under 30 minutes, the dough is easy to shape and cooks to perfection on a skillet, forming a crispy crust with a soft, tender interior. Slice them open and customize with your favorite fillings, like creamy cheese, ripe avocado, or savory shredded meats, for a truly authentic experience. Whether served as a breakfast treat or hearty dinner side, this recipe captures the comforting essence of homemade arepas, bringing timeless Latin flavors to your table. Perfect for those searching for gluten-free bread alternatives or delicious South American recipes!
Smart Nutrition Tracking with SnapCalorie
Explore More
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups precooked white cornmeal (Harina PAN)
- 2.5 cups warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and salt, stirring until the salt is dissolved.
Gradually add the precooked white cornmeal to the salted water, stirring constantly with your hand or a wooden spoon to avoid any lumps.
Continue mixing until a smooth, pliable dough forms. The dough should not be sticky and should easily come together into a ball.
Allow the dough to rest for about 5 minutes to fully hydrate.
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten between your palms to form discs about 1/2 inch thick and 4 inches in diameter.
Heat a non-stick skillet or a cast iron griddle over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan evenly.
Place the arepas in the pan, cooking 4 at a time, ensuring they have space to breathe. Cook each side for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer cooked arepas to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining arepas, adding more oil as necessary.
While still warm, slice the arepas horizontally (much like a pita pocket) and fill with your favorite ingredients such as cheese, avocado, shredded chicken, or any desired filling.
Serve immediately and enjoy the traditional taste of homemade arepas!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
168 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 3.7 g | 5% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g | 2% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 246 mg | 11% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 32.0 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.0 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.0 g | ||
| Protein | 2.9 g | 6% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 2 mg | 0% | |
| Iron | 0.8 mg | 5% | |
| Potassium | 0 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.
