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A spatula lifting up a gluten-free arepa made with masarepa for an easy meal.
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4 from 7 votes

How to Make Arepas

Learning how to make arepas is actually super easy! This classic Venezuelan sandwich is made from instant corn flour and makes a yummy gluten free and vegetarian alternative to bread.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Venezuelan
Servings: 8 arepas

Ingredients

  • 2 c warm water
  • 1 ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp shortening butter flavored, melted
  • 2 c instant corn masa flour

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Place water, salt and shortening in a large bowl. Slowly add flour, mixing well after each addition with a spoon.
  • Once almost all flour is added, start mixing dough by hand until dough is just combined.
  • Cover arepa dough with a moist towel and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  • Scoop out ½ cup of arepa dough, roll into a ball, and flatten into a 4-5 inch diameter and ½ inch thick arepa.
  • Test to see if dough is the right consistency by placing the arepa in the palm of your hand and then flip your hand over. If the arepa sticks for a second or two, and then falls off, the dough is the perfect consistency. If it falls off quickly, add a bit more water. If it doesn’t fall at all and sticks to your hand, add more arepa flour.
  • Repeat step 5 with the remaining dough.
  • On a griddle or cast iron skillet, set to medium-high heat (about 400-450 degrees), place 1 tablespoon of butter or shortening. Once griddle is heated, add arepas.
  • Cook each arepa for 3-4 minutes or until they begin to brown, flip, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.
  • After all arepas have been seared on both sides, place them on a baking sheet and bake in preheated oven for 12-15 minutes.
  • Slice arepas in half and stuff with your favorite fillings. Enjoy!

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 118kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 74mg | Fiber: 1g | Vitamin A: 60IU | Calcium: 39mg | Iron: 2.1mg