How to Make Arepas de Queso - A Step-by-Step Guide

Arepa de Queso is a traditional dish from Colombia and Venezuela, and is a staple in many households in these countries. This delicious and versatile dish can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and is often served as a side dish or as a main course.

The key ingredient in Arepa de Queso is, of course, the cheese. The cheese used in this recipe is typically a type that is easily melted, such as mozzarella or queso blanco. The cheese gives the arepas a rich and savory flavor tha...

Read more

Ingredients

  • 1 (8 ounce) package low-moisture mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups pre-cooked white cornmeal (such as P.A.N.®)
  • 2 ½ cups warm water
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
  • ¼ cup canola oil, divided

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Additional Time: 10 mins
  • Total Time: 55 mins
  • Servings: 14
  • Yield: 14 arepas

  • Shred 3 ounces of the mozzarella and cut remaining 5 ounces into 1/2-inch cubes. Transfer shredded cheese to a large bowl and cubed cheese to a medium bowl.
  • Add cornmeal, 1 teaspoon salt, and warm water to the shredded cheese and mix to combine. Set aside for 10 minutes to allow cornmeal to absorb liquid. The mixture should resemble soft Play-Doh.
  • Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F (95 degrees C).
  • With damp palms and fingers, place 1/4 cup arepa mixture into your palm and flatten into a 2 1/2-inch disk. Place 3 to 4 cubes of the mozzarella into the center. Gently fold edges of dough over to cover mozzarella cubes completely, patting to form a cake. Repeat until all dough and cheese has been used.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 3 or 4 arepas and cook until both sides are golden brown and charred in spots, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove to a parchment-lined baking sheet and season with a pinch of the remaining salt. Place in the preheated oven to keep warm. Repeat with remaining oil, arepas, and salt.
  • Nutrition

    127 cal.

    • Total Fat: 7g
    • Saturated Fat: 2g
    • Cholesterol: 10mg
    • Sodium: 306mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 12g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Total Sugars: 0g
    • Protein: 5g
    • Calcium: 126mg
    • Potassium: 14mg