Description
Arepas con Queso are delicious Venezuelan cornmeal cakes with a crispy exterior and gooey mozzarella cheese filling inside. Made with simple ingredients like masarepa flour, butter, cheese, and milk, these arepas are easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting snack or meal.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups masarepa flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar, plus more to taste
Dairy & Wet Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 2½ cups lukewarm water
Other
- 1 teaspoon nonstick cooking spray, for the skillet
Instructions
- Combine dry and dairy ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the masarepa flour, salt, and sugar. Add the room temperature butter and 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir well to evenly incorporate all ingredients.
- Add liquids and knead dough: Pour in ¼ cup of whole milk, then slowly add the lukewarm water while mixing continuously. Knead the mixture until a smooth, manageable dough forms. Add more water if needed to achieve the right consistency.
- Rest the dough: Cover the dough and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flour to absorb the moisture fully for better texture.
- Shape the arepas: Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disc about ½ inch thick to create the classic arepa shape.
- Cook the arepas: Heat a skillet over medium heat and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Place the arepas on the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown, crispy crust.
- Cool and serve: Remove the cooked arepas from the skillet and let them cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese inside to set slightly.
Notes
- If the dough feels too dry, add lukewarm water a tablespoon at a time to reach a smooth consistency.
- Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melting and flavor.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on skillet type and stove heat—watch for a golden crust.
- Arepas can be served plain, stuffed, or topped with your favorite fillings or sauces.
