Arepas de Queso
Arepas de Queso are traditional Colombian cornmeal cakes filled with cheese.Pre-cooked cornmeal creates a soft and tender dough.Cheese adds richness, saltiness, and a delicious melted center.The arepas are cooked until golden and lightly crisp on the outside.They are wonderful for breakfast, snacks, or as a side dish.Serve them hot with butter, extra cheese, or Colombian hot chocolate.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pre-cooked white cornmeal (masarepa)
- 2½ cups warm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or queso blanco
- ½ cup shredded cheese for filling
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter, for cooking
Instructions
Prepare the Water
- Pour the warm water into a large mixing bowl.Add the salt and melted butter.Stir until the salt dissolves.
Add the Cornmeal
- Gradually pour the masarepa into the warm water while mixing with your fingers or a wooden spoon.Continue mixing until a soft dough forms.
Check the Dough
- Let the dough rest for approximately 5 minutes.The finished dough should be soft and moist but easy to shape.If it feels dry, add a tablespoon of warm water at a time.If it feels too sticky, add a little more masarepa.
Divide the Dough
- Divide the dough into approximately 6 equal portions.Roll each portion into a ball.
Add Extra Cheese
- For cheese-filled arepas, make a small indentation in the center of each flattened piece.Add a spoonful of shredded cheese.Fold the dough gently around the cheese and reshape into a thick disk.Make sure the filling is completely enclosed.
Heat the Pan
- Heat a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.Lightly grease it with oil or butter.
Cook the Arepas
- Place the arepas in the skillet without overcrowding.Cook for approximately 5–7 minutes per side.They should develop a beautiful golden crust.
Add Butter
- For extra flavor, brush the hot arepas with a small amount of butter.
Serve
- Serve immediately while warm.Cut one open to reveal the melted cheese inside.Pair with Colombian hot chocolate, coffee, eggs, avocado, or your favorite breakfast foods.
Notes
- Masarepa: Use pre-cooked cornmeal specifically intended for arepas.
- Water: Warm water helps the cornmeal hydrate evenly.
- Cheese: Choose cheese that melts well for a gooey center.
- Dough: The dough should remain soft and pliable.
- Thickness: Avoid making the arepas excessively thin.
- Heat: Medium or medium-low heat helps cook the center without burning the exterior.
- Filling: Seal the cheese completely inside.
- Serving: Arepas de Queso taste best while warm.