Vegetarian Arepa with Shredded Beef
Discover a flavorful twist on a classic South American dish with this Vegetarian Arepa with Shredded "Beef." Perfectly crispy arepas, made with golden masa harina, are stuffed with a savory jackfruit filling that masterfully mimics the texture of traditional shredded beef. Packed with smoky paprika, aromatic cumin, sautéed garlic, and a hint of soy sauce, the jackfruit shines as a plant-based alternative full of bold, satisfying flavors. Topped with creamy avocado slices, vibrant cilantro, and a zesty squeeze of lime, this easy-to-make recipe is not only vegetarian-friendly but also a delightful fusion of textures and tastes. Ready in just an hour and serving four, it’s an irresistible option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings that proves plant-based eating can be both hearty and delicious!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups precooked cornmeal (masa harina)
- 2.5 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 can canned young green jackfruit
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large avocado, sliced
- 0.5 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 4 pieces lime wedges
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the precooked cornmeal, water, and salt. Mix together until a dough forms. If the mixture is too dry, add more water a tablespoon at a time.
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disc about 1/2 inch thick.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with vegetable oil. Cook the arepas for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they develop a crispy, golden-brown crust. Set them aside.
Drain and rinse the canned jackfruit. Pat it dry with paper towels.
In the same skillet, heat the remaining vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
Add the jackfruit to the skillet, breaking it apart with a fork until it resembles the texture of shredded meat. Stir in the soy sauce.
Cook the jackfruit mixture for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is tender and warmed through.
To assemble the arepas, slice each arepa open horizontally. Fill with a generous portion of shredded jackfruit, sliced avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
453 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 18.4 g | 24% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.6 g | 13% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 835 mg | 36% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 68.6 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.8 g | 46% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.1 g | ||
| Protein | 9.2 g | 18% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 172 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 3.6 mg | 20% | |
| Potassium | 1302 mg | 28% | |
*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.
