Arepas con Queso

Ingredients

• Precooked white corn flour (masarepa) 250 g
• Warm water 330 ml
• Salt 1 tsp
• Vegetable oil 4 tsp
• Butter 25 g
• Queso blanco or other fresh white cheese, grated 225 g

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix the warm water with the salt and 1 tsp of the oil, then gradually add the corn flour, stirring with your hand to break up any lumps.

2. 2

   Knead for 2 minutes into a soft, smooth dough that does not crack at the edges, adding a little water if needed, and rest it for 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Divide the dough into 5 balls and flatten each into a disc about 10 cm wide and 1.5 cm thick.

4. 4

   Heat a griddle or heavy frying pan over medium heat and brush it with the remaining oil.

5. 5

   Cook the arepas for 6-8 minutes per side until a firm golden crust forms, then finish them in a 180C oven for 10 minutes until they sound hollow when tapped.

6. 6

   Split each hot arepa along the side with a knife to make a pocket.

7. 7

   Spread the inside with butter, fill with the grated cheese and serve warm.