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Arepas

3.4

(4)

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ArepasMarcus Nilsson

Serve these South American cornmeal cakes with a side of pico de gallo or fresh corn salsa.

TIP :

Tell first-time arepa eaters that a "surprise" awaits them inside the cake.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 6

Ingredients

2 cups precooked masarepa cornmeal
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups hot chicken broth or water
1/2 cup canned black or pinto beans, drained
1/2 cup shredded cheese (Jack, cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    1. Combine the cornmeal and salt in a bowl.

    Step 2

    2. Add the broth (or water). Mix until a dough with no lumps forms.

    Step 3

    3. When it's cool enough to touch, use your hands to divide it into 8 pieces. Cover them with a damp towel.

    Step 4

    4. Heat a lightly greased large griddle. Dip your hands in cold water (to prevent sticking) and roll each dough piece into a ball. Using your fingers, make an indentation in the center of each.

    Step 5

    5. Push a teaspoon each of beans and cheese into each ball. Pinch the dough around the filling to enclose it.

    Step 6

    6. Flatten each ball to 1 inch thick between your palms.

    Step 7

    7. Cook them on the griddle until crisp, about 3 minutes a side.

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