The arepa with everything is a typical dish of Venezuelan and Colombian cuisine. It consists of a delicious corn arepa filled with various ingredients such as shredded meat, refried beans, grated cheese, avocado, salsa and other accessories. It is a versatile and tasty option that combines different flavors and textures in each bite.
Arepa with everything
The arepa with everything is an iconic dish originating from Venezuela and Colombia. It consists of a dough of corn flour or bread depending on the region or preference, it is cooked in the shape of a disk and filled with a variety of ingredients.
6
Portions15
minute20
minute218
kcalIngredients:
- For the arepa
2 coup of Precooked corn flour (white or yellow corn flour)
Bread flour if you want to make a Venezuelan arepa.
2 1/2 coup of Warm water
1 tablespoon of salt
Vegetable oil or butter for cooking
- For the filling
Shredded meat (you can use beef, chicken or pork)
Refried beans
Grated cheese (white cheese or mozzarella type cheese)
Sliced avocado
Hogao (tomato and onion sauce)
Bacon or crispy bacon (optional)
Sauce of your choice (chili, tartar, guasacaca, etc.)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the pre-cooked corn flour with the salt. Add the warm water little by little and mix until you obtain a soft and manageable dough. Knead for a few minutes until the dough is well integrated. Let stand for 5 minutes.
- Divide the dough into portions of the desired size for the arepas. Form each portion into balls and flatten them to create discs approximately 1 cm thick.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little vegetable oil or butter.
- Place the arepas in the pan and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy on the outside. You can cover the pan to help cook the inside of the arepas.
- Once cooked, remove the arepas from the pan and let them cool slightly.
- To assemble the arepas with everything, cut each arepa in half, creating a kind of pocket.
- Fill each arepa with shredded meat, refried beans, grated cheese, sliced avocado, hogao, and tocinita or crispy bacon if desired.
- Add sauce to taste, whether chili, tartar, guasacaca or another sauce of your choice.
- Close the arepas and serve them hot.
Tips
- Choose a good corn flour: Use good quality pre-cooked corn flour, preferably white or yellow corn flour. This will guarantee an authentic texture and flavor in your arepas.
- Dough Consistency: Make sure you get a soft, workable dough, but not too sticky. Add the warm water gradually while kneading to get the right consistency.
- Knead the dough well: Spend a few minutes kneading the arepa dough to make sure it is well integrated. This will help the arepas cook evenly and have a better texture.
- Control the temperature: Make sure the pan is hot enough before placing the arepas. This will help them brown properly on the outside and cook properly on the inside.
- Don't overdo it with the filling: When filling the arepas, keep in mind that you shouldn't overload them. If you add too much filling, they will be difficult to close and may break during cooking.
- Variety of ingredients: While there are traditional arepa ingredients with everything, feel free to add your own variations and favorites. You can experiment with different meats, cheeses, sauces and vegetables according to your preference.
- Additional Sides: Consider serving your arepas with everything with traditional accompaniments such as fresh salads, fried plantains, additional avocado or a refreshing drink. These accessories enhance the dining experience.
- Enjoy freshly made arepas: Arepas are best when eaten freshly made and still hot and crispy. So, try to serve them immediately after cooking to enjoy their optimal flavor and texture.
Nutritional information
- Calories 218kcal
- Carbohydrates 39.7g
- Protein 4.5g
- Fat 5.2g
- Saturated fat: 0.9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Fiber 5.2g
- Sugar 0.6g
Arepa with everything and the health benefits
The arepa itself, as the base of the recipe, is a corn-based food that can provide some health benefits. Here are some potential benefits associated with arepa and the common ingredients used in its preparation:
- Energy source: The corn flour used to make arepas is rich in carbohydrates, which provides energy for the body.
- Dietary fiber: Precooked corn flour may contain dietary fiber, especially if whole corn flour is used. Fiber helps maintain digestive health and can contribute to feelings of satiety.
- Protein contribution: Depending on the filling used, such as shredded meat, arepas can provide proteins that are essential for tissue growth and repair.
- Vitamins and minerals: Corn and other ingredients used in arepas may contain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B, iron and magnesium, which are important for various functions of the body.
- Nutritional versatility: The arepa can be adapted to different preferences and dietary needs. You can choose healthier ingredients, such as vegetable fillings, low-fat options, or lean proteins.
However, it is important to note that the health benefits will depend on the specific ingredients used in the recipe and how they are prepared. Some fillings and sides may be healthier than others. It is advisable to choose fresh, balanced options and limit the consumption of ingredients high in saturated fat or sodium. It is always good to consult a health professional or nutritionist for personalized guidance on your diet and specific needs.
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Image credit: freepik
