Delicious Arepas with Cheese

Homemade Arepas with Cheese

Hola! As a Florida girl with a vibrant connection to Mexico’s soul-warming flavors, my kitchen has always been a cozy haven. Growing up in Orlando, I fondly remember pressing fresh tortillas with my mama while my abuela spun enchanting tales, infusing our meals with the magic of spice. Each visit to the mercados of Oaxaca, filled with colorful produce and aromatic spices, revived that nostalgia. It’s in those cherished moments that I learned food is more than nourishment; it’s love and stories shared over delicious bites. Today, I’m thrilled to share the joy of making arepas with cheese—a delightful creation that brings together the best of home cooking and culinary tradition.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 arepas
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Latin American
Best Season: Year-round

Top Reasons You’ll Adore This Recipe

These arepas are a family favorite, combining the delightful crunch of the outer layer with a gooey, cheesy center.
They are incredibly versatile and can be filled with your favorite ingredients, making them perfect for any meal or snack.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious dish that brings the warmth of Latin American cooking into your home.
Arepas are naturally gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences and ensuring that everyone can enjoy these scrumptious treats.

Ingredients List

2 cups masarepa (pre-cooked white cornmeal)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt or Kosher salt
1/2 cup Cotija cheese, finely crumbled
1 tablespoon butter (softened)
1 1/4 cup warm water (plus more if needed)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 8 ounces)
Oil or butter for cooking

Ingredient Tips

Masarepa: Look for pre-cooked white cornmeal at your local Latin grocery store for authentic flavor.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a delightful saltiness; feel free to substitute with feta if needed.
Mozzarella Cheese: For a richer flavor, try using a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Butter: Using softened butter helps to bind the ingredients more effectively, adding richness to your arepas.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine the masarepa, salt, crumbled Cotija cheese, softened butter, and warm water. Stir until evenly mixed.
Knead the mixture until a smooth dough forms. The dough should feel similar to homemade play-dough and not sticky.
Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes.
After resting, check the consistency of the dough by flattening a small amount with your hands. If the edges crack, it may be too dry; add additional water one tablespoon at a time until pliable.
With lightly moistened hands, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then gently pat them into circles approximately 5 inches in diameter and about 1/4 inch thick.
Working with one circle at a time, place a couple of tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center, leaving about a 1/2-inch border.
Place a second dough circle on top and seal the edges by pressing them together. Gently smooth the sealed edges to form a disk about 1/2 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining dough and cheese.
To cook the arepas on the stove: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. If using butter, add it to the skillet and spread evenly.
For an electric griddle, heat it to 325ºF, adding butter to coat the surface.
Place the arepas in the skillet or griddle and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Serve warm with additional butter on top if desired.

Expert Tips for Success

Ensure that the water you use is warm, as this helps activate the masarepa and creates a better texture.
Use a non-stick skillet or griddle for the best cooking results and easy flipping.
Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique flavor, such as a hint of pepper jack for some heat.
Serve immediately for the best cheesy experience, but they can be held warm in a towel or heated briefly if needed.

Creative Variations

Herbed Arepas: Incorporate fresh cilantro or jalapeños into the dough for added flavor and zest.
Breakfast Arepas: Fill with eggs, avocado, and salsa for a hearty breakfast option that packs a punch.
Sweet Arepas: Swap cheese for a mix of chocolate chips and a drizzle of honey for a delightful dessert twist.
Vegetable-Stuffed Arepas: Include roasted peppers, onions, or mushrooms in the filling for a delicious vegetarian option.

Perfect Pairings

These delectable arepas pair wonderfully with:

A refreshing pico de gallo or salsa of your choice.
A light guacamole for a creamy, delightful contrast.
Herbal-infused teas or fresh lemonade for a refreshing drink accompaniment.
Churros or flan for a delightful dessert to finish your meal.

Make Ahead & Freezer Tips

To prep ahead, you can mix the dough a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. For longer storage, form the arepas, wrap them individually in plastic, and freeze. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight, then cook as directed.

Serving Ideas

Serve the arepas warm on a colorful plate, garnished with fresh herbs or sliced avocado for a striking presentation. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of additional cheese can elevate the dish even further!

Kitchen Wisdom

For the perfect golden brown color, ensure your cooking surface is properly preheated.
Keep your hands slightly wet while shaping the dough to prevent sticking.
Experiment with toppings and fillings to make each arepa unique to your taste.
If you have leftover dough, store it in the fridge for up to two days, bringing it back to room temperature before shaping.

Storage & Reheating Tips

To store leftover arepas, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, the stovetop is best; simply warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through, ensuring they regain some of their original crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use regular cornmeal instead of masarepa to make arepas?
Regular cornmeal won’t yield the same consistency and texture, as masarepa is specially processed for arepas. It is recommended to use masarepa for the best results.
How do I know when arepas are done cooking?
They should be golden brown on both sides, with a crispy outer layer. You can also gently press them; they should feel firm to the touch.
Are these arepas gluten-free?
Yes, since they are made with masarepa (which is gluten-free), these arepas are suitable for those avoiding gluten.
Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freeze the formed arepas for later cooking.
What can I use as a filling besides cheese?
The possibilities are endless! You can fill arepas with meats, vegetables, beans, or even sweets like jams or chocolate for different tastes.
Do I need any special equipment to make arepas?
No special equipment is required. A simple skillet or an electric griddle works perfectly well for cooking arepas at home.
Why do I need to let the dough rest?
Allowing the dough to rest helps the masarepa hydrate properly, resulting in pliable and easy-to-handle dough.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 arepa
Calories: 150
Protein: 6g
Carbs: 22g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary. Consult a nutritionist for precise info.

A Warm Note from My Kitchen

There’s something truly special about creating dishes that connect us to our roots. As these cheesy arepas sizzle on the stove, they remind us of laughter, shared meals, and making memories with loved ones. I hope this recipe brings as much warmth and joy to your table as it does to mine.

Final Thoughts

Arepas with cheese are a delightful treat you must try! With their delectable flavor and satisfying texture, they are sure to bring smiles all around. Don’t forget to pin this recipe and share your delicious creations with friends! Let’s keep the spirit of homemade Latin flavors alive, one arepa at a time.