Name: Arepas Con Queso
Ingredients: 2 cups masarepa flour: This corn flour is the main ingredient, giving the arepas their signature taste and texture.; 2 teaspoons salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the dough and balances the cheese’s richness.; 2 teaspoons sugar: Sugar adds a subtle sweetness to the dough; adjust to taste.; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture, helping achieve a tender texture.; 1½ cups mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella provides creaminess and a delicious stretch when melted.; ¼ cup whole milk: Contributes to the dough’s moisture and richness.; 2½ cups lukewarm water: Essential for mixing and kneading the dough to the right consistency.; 1 teaspoon nonstick cooking spray: Prevents the arepas from sticking to the skillet during cooking.

Description

Enjoy Arepas con Queso: golden, crispy cornmeal cakes filled with melted cheese. A delicious and savory main dish from Latin American cuisine.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups masarepa flour: This corn flour is the main ingredient, giving the arepas their signature taste and texture.
2 teaspoons salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the dough and balances the cheese’s richness.
2 teaspoons sugar: Sugar adds a subtle sweetness to the dough; adjust to taste.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture, helping achieve a tender texture.
1½ cups mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella provides creaminess and a delicious stretch when melted.
¼ cup whole milk: Contributes to the dough’s moisture and richness.
2½ cups lukewarm water: Essential for mixing and kneading the dough to the right consistency.
1 teaspoon nonstick cooking spray: Prevents the arepas from sticking to the skillet during cooking.

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of masarepa flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 2 teaspoons of sugar. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1½ cups of freshly shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well to incorporate the ingredients evenly.
Pour in ¼ cup of whole milk and slowly add 2½ cups of lukewarm water while continuously mixing the dough. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and manageable, adding more water if necessary to achieve the right consistency.
Let the dough rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Divide the rested dough into 6 equal-sized portions and roll each portion into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disc shape, approximately ½ inch thick.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and spray it with 1 teaspoon of nonstick cooking spray. Place the arepas on the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust.
Let the arepas cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief cooling period allows the cheese inside to be perfectly melted and the crust to set.