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!