Crispy Cheese Arepas (Print-Friendly Version)
Crispy on the outside with melty cheese inside, these golden arepas are a comforting snack.
# Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Dough Base
01 -
0.25 cup whole milk
02 -
2 cups masarepa flour
03 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
04 -
1.5 cups mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
05 -
2 teaspoons salt
06 -
2.5 cups lukewarm water
07 -
2 teaspoons granulated sugar, plus extra to taste
→ For Cooking
08 -
1 teaspoon nonstick cooking spray
# How to Make It:
01 -
Take the arepas out of the skillet and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
02 -
Cut the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each one into a ball and then flatten it into a disc about 1.25 cm thick.
03 -
Heat a nonstick skillet on medium heat and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Place the arepas in the pan and cook for 5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.
04 -
Mix in the room temperature unsalted butter and shredded mozzarella cheese with the dry ingredients until it's all blended together.
05 -
Add in the whole milk, then slowly mix in the lukewarm water. Knead it until you get a smooth, workable dough. If it feels too dry, add a bit more water.
06 -
In a big bowl, whisk the masarepa flour, salt, and sugar until they're mixed well.
07 -
Let the dough sit uncovered for about 5 minutes to let it soak up some moisture.
# Extra Information:
01 -
To avoid burning the arepas, steer clear of using butter for frying. Use oil instead and add salted butter after cooking for flavor.
02 -
Your dough should be soft but not sticky. If it's too dry, add a tad more water or masarepa.
03 -
Want extra cheese? Just put a tablespoon of mozzarella in the middle of each dough ball before shaping. This keeps air pockets out.
04 -
Cook over medium heat for the best crust and even melting of the cheese without burning.