How to Make Delicious Venezuelan Arepas

One of the most popular food items in Colombia and Venezuela, arepas are a type of maize-based patties. They’ve been enjoyed for hundreds of years, including by indigenous tribes throughout Venezuela. In fact, the word “arepa” comes from “erepa,” a term that refers to maize in the Venezuelan Indian dialect. 

Arepas can be prepared a variety of ways, making them versatile enough for any meal. Like pitas, they are often stuffed with savory foods, such as cheese, ham, or shredded beef. They can also be enjoyed with different toppings. If you’re ready to try your hand at cooking this delectable item, make sure to follow this recipe, which yields about 6 arepas.

• Preheat the oven to 350 Fahrenheit
• Lightly grease a frying pan and put on medium-high heat
• Add 2 cups of lukewarm water to a medium bowl
• Dissolve 1 tablespoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of oil, and an optional 1 tablespoon of sugar in the water
• Mix in 2 cups of precooked white cornmeal, such as P.A.N, to the water mixture
• Once mixed, cover the bowl with a damp tea towel and let the dough rest for about 10 minutes
• The dough should have the consistency of thick pancake batter (if it is too dry, consider adding 1 tablespoon of water)
• Divide the dough into 6 even pieces, about 4 inches in diameter and ½ an inch tall
• Brush the uncooked arepas with a bit of oil and place them on your heated pan for 2 to 3 minutes
• Then, bake them for 13 to 18 minutes, until they are slightly puffed
• Let them cool, slice them in half like a bun so they can be stuffed with your desired fillings, and serve them while they’re warm

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