An arepa is a small, unleavened corn patty that is split open like a sandwich and stuffed. It is a common food found Latin America. To make arepas, you will need to find arepa flour, a precooked corn flour, not to be confused with masa harina. This flour can be found at specialty food stores or Latin markets. After you prepare your dough, you can grill, bake or fry the arepas and stuff them with meat, beans or cheese.
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Combine the arepa flour with a pinch of salt. Slowly add in hot water, a little at a time, just until the dough comes together. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for five minutes.
2. Remove the plastic wrap and knead your dough for five minutes. Keep your hands moist and add water as you go to form a smooth, moist dough. Form your dough into 3 inch disks. At this point, the arepa dough can be wrapped in individual portions and refrigerated or frozen for later use.
3. Put your canola oil in a non-stick pan and cook the arepas until a slight crust forms on either side. Move to a baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Serve by slitting the arepa horizontally so you can stuff it with meat, beans or cheese.
Tags: your dough, arepa flour, beans cheese, five minutes, meat beans, meat beans cheese, plastic wrap
