How to Make the Perfect Simple Cheese Arepas
Latin American · Easy · 25 min · 6 servings
These simple cheese arepas are one of the most kid friendly recipes from Latin America because kids love the cheesy crispy outside. They are easy to customize with favorite fillings making them a hit at any family table.
Why this recipe works
This Simple Cheese Arepas recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 25 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 280 calories with 10g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 cups pre-cooked white cornmeal masarepa
- 2.5 cups warm water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
Mix cornmeal, warm water, and salt in a bowl until a soft dough forms. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Shape the Arepas
Divide dough into 6 equal balls, flatten each into a disc about half an inch thick and press cheese into the center sealing the edges.
Step 3: Cook Until Golden
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and cook arepas for 6 to 7 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Step 4: Serve Warm
Serve immediately while cheese is melted and gooey for the best kid friendly experience.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- mozzarella cheese → queso blanco for a more traditional flavor
- butter → olive oil for a dairy-reduced cooking option
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using cold water makes the dough crumbly and hard to shape
- Cooking on high heat burns the outside before the inside is cooked through
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 280 calories, 10g protein, 32g carbs, 12g fat, 2g fiber.
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