Colombian Arepas de Queso Recipe
Traditional Colombian Arepas de Queso are delicious cornmeal cakes stuffed with fresh cheese, pan-fried to crispy perfection on the outside while remaining soft and cheesy inside. This recipe features a blend of queso fresco and mozzarella for a gooey cheesy center, enhanced with butter for extra moisture and flavor. Perfect for breakfast, snack, or a comforting meal any time of day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 arepas
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Colombian
Ingredients
Cheese
- ¾ cup mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced or shredded
- 2 cups queso fresco
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups yellow pre-cooked cornmeal
- 2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2½ cups warm water
- 3 tbsp salted butter
- 1 tbsp avocado oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow pre-cooked cornmeal, grated queso fresco, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Gradually add warm water while mixing until a moldable, dough-like consistency is achieved—similar to cookie dough but not soggy. Stir in the salted butter for added moisture.
- Shape the arepas: With damp hands, take a golf ball-sized portion of dough and flatten it into a 2½-inch disk. Place 3 thin slices of mozzarella cheese in the center, fold the edges over to encase the cheese completely, and gently pat to form a sealed disk. Repeat until all dough and cheese are used.
- Cook the arepas: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place 4 arepas in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until both sides develop charred, crispy spots. This ensures a crunchy exterior and melty cheesy interior.
Notes
- Use warm water to help the cornmeal dough bind better.
- Dampening your hands prevents the dough from sticking while shaping the arepas.
- Ensure the edges are well sealed around the mozzarella to prevent cheese leakage during cooking.
- Adjust cooking time depending on skillet heat to avoid burning.
- Serve hot for the best cheesy texture and flavor.
Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/colombian-arepas-de-queso-recipe/
