Cheese Arepas are crispy golden pockets filled with melty cheese, perfect for any occasion.
Author:topchoicerecipesgmail-com
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:8 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Frying
Cuisine:Latin American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups masarepa (pre-cooked white cornmeal)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt
1/2 cup Cotija cheese, finely crumbled
1 tablespoon butter, softened
1 1/4 cup warm water (plus more if needed)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 ounces)
Oil or butter for cooking
Instructions
Combine the masarepa, salt, crumbled Cotija cheese, softened butter, and warm water in a medium bowl.
Knead the mixture until it reaches a smooth, play-dough-like consistency. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rest for 10 minutes.
Check the dough by flattening a small ball. If it cracks at the edges, add warm water one tablespoon at a time until it’s just right.
Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a circle about 5 inches in diameter and ¼ inch thick.
Place a couple of tablespoons of shredded mozzarella in the center of one dough circle, leaving a ½ inch border. Lay another dough circle on top and seal the edges. Repeat for all dough.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat (or grease an electric griddle set to 325ºF with butter).
Cook the arepas for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Serve warm, optionally topped with additional butter.
Notes
For a spicier kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or bell peppers to the cheese filling.