grains
gluten-free
pan-fried
everyday
main course
crispy
Latin American
all seasons
Hot
Venezuelan Corn Arepa
Difficulty
easy
Time
40m
Price Category
cheap
Calories
Medium
The arepa is an iconic Venezuelan corn bread that captivates with its simplicity and versatility. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it provides a perfect base for any filling, be it cheese, meat, avocado, or beans. This gluten-free delicacy is quick to prepare and ideal for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner. Discover the flavors of Venezuela with this authentic recipe!
ingredients
Steps
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the corn flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water, kneading by hand until you get a smooth, homogeneous dough. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the flour to absorb the water.
Shape the Arepas
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Shape them into round patties about 10 cm (4 inches) in diameter and 1.5-2 cm (0.6-0.8 inches) thick. Ensure the edges are smooth and there are no cracks.
Pan-Fry
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little vegetable oil. Cook each arepa for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. They will not be fully cooked through at this stage.
Finish in Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the pan-fried arepas to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until they are fully cooked through and soft inside. Serve immediately, hot, with your favorite fillings.
Extra Tips
► For the perfect texture, let the dough rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the flour to fully absorb the water.
► Experiment with various fillings such as black beans, avocado, cheese, or shredded meat.
► If you don't have an oven, you can continue cooking the arepas in a pan over low heat, covered, until fully cooked through.
Nutrition
| Per 100g | Per Serving 120g | |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal | 264 kcal |
| Protein | 5g | 6g |
| Fat | 2g | 2.4g |
| Carbohydrate | 45g | 54g |
| Fiber | 3g | 3.6g |
| Sugar | 0g | 0g |