Homemade Arepas

Arepas are deliciously crispy white corn cakes that can be eaten plain or stuffed. Fall in love with arepas using this easy recipe from Chef John.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 20 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Calories: 96 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups pre-cooked white cornmeal (such as P.A.N.®)
• 0.25 cup vegetable oil, or as needed
• 2.5 cups lukewarm water

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Stir water and salt together in a medium bowl; gradually stir in cornmeal with your fingers until the mixture forms a soft, moist, malleable dough.

Step 2

Form dough into eight 2-inch diameter balls; pat each ball to flatten into a 3/8-inch-thick arepa patty.

Step 3

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat; fry arepas in batches until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer cooked arepas to a paper towel-lined plate to drain until cool enough to handle.

Step 4

Slice halfway through each arepa horizontally with a thin serrated knife to form a pita-like pocket.