Arepas con Queso : A Delightful Venezuelan Cheese Arepa Recipe
Arepas con Queso is a traditional Venezuelan dish that offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures. Made with cornmeal dough and filled with melted cheese, these warm, soft pockets are a comfort food loved by many. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Arepas con Queso are incredibly versatile, satisfying, and easy to make.
Originating in Venezuela, arepas are a staple food in many Latin American countries. The beauty of these cheese-filled arepas lies in their simplicity—just a few ingredients come together to create something incredibly delicious. The cornmeal dough is pan-fried to a golden brown, and once split open, it reveals a gooey, melty cheese center. The texture is soft, slightly crispy on the outside, and delightfully cheesy inside.
Not only is Arepas con Queso a dish that’s sure to impress anyone, but it’s also easy to customize. You can experiment with different cheeses, add savory fillings like ham or shredded chicken, or enjoy them as they are with just a sprinkle of salt and a dollop of sour cream. This recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks, offering a quick yet mouthwatering meal in under 30 minutes.
If you’ve never had an arepa before, this recipe is the perfect introduction to the delicious world of Venezuelan cuisine. The combination of crispy edges and the warm, melty cheese center will make these Arepas con Queso a hit at any meal!
Equipment
- A large mixing bowl is needed to combine the cornmeal, water, and salt to form the dough.
- Measuring cups and spoons ensure the correct proportions of ingredients, particularly for water, salt, and cheese.
- A non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan works best for cooking the arepas, ensuring they brown evenly and don’t stick to the surface.
- A spatula or tongs is perfect for flipping the arepas without damaging them, especially while they are cooking in the skillet.
- If you prefer a smoother, uniform dough, you can use a rolling pin to flatten the dough into round discs.
- A knife may be needed to cut the arepas in half once they are cooked and ready to be filled with melted cheese.
- A serving plate or platter to arrange your arepas once they’re ready, and for serving them hot.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of pre-cooked cornmeal such as Masa Harina
- 1 ½ cups of warm water
- 1 tablespoon of butter optional
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese queso blanco, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese
- Oil for frying optional, or you can use butter
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the pre-cooked cornmeal with the salt. Gradually add the warm water and mix with your hands until the dough comes together and is soft and smooth. If you want a richer dough, add butter to the mix. Allow the dough to rest for about 5 minutes.
- Form the Arepas: Divide the dough into small portions, about 6 to 8, depending on the size you prefer. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a disk about 1/2 inch thick.
- Fill the Arepas with Cheese: Place a small amount of shredded cheese in the center of each disk. Fold the dough around the cheese to form a pocket. Pinch the edges together to seal the arepas, making sure no cheese escapes during cooking.
- Cook the Arepas: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Once hot, place the arepas in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. You can also cook them in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to finish cooking the cheese inside.
- Serve: Remove the arepas from the pan and let them cool slightly before serving. Cut them open to reveal the melted cheese and serve with sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite hot sauce.
Notes
To make your Arepas con Queso even more delicious, try these tips:
Add extra fillings like cooked ham, shredded chicken, or sautéed onions for more flavor and texture.
Use a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella, queso blanco, and cheddar for a richer, creamier filling.
Top with fresh toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra zing.
Pan-fry with butter instead of oil for a richer, crispier crust.
Use a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella, queso blanco, and cheddar for a richer, creamier filling.
Top with fresh toppings like avocado slices, sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra zing.
Pan-fry with butter instead of oil for a richer, crispier crust.