Colombian Arepas with Cheese (Arepas con Queso) and Aji
Makes 6 medium (3-inch) or 12 small arepas.
Servings 6
Calories 230kcal
Equipment
- medium mixing bowl
- 10-inch cast iron skillet
- blender or food processor
Ingredients
AREPAS
- 1 cup masarepa (arepa flour)
- 1 cup shredded Monterrey Jack cheese
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water plus 2 tablespoons
- ¼ cup sunflower oil
AJI
- 1 scallion white and green parts, thinly sliced
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 Anaheim chili seeded and rough chopped
- 2 limes juiced
- ¼ cup water
- pinch salt
Instructions
Arepas
- In the medium bowl, toss together the arepa flour, cheese, and salt, then stir in the water until well mixed. Let the mixture stand until enough water is absorbed for a soft dough to form, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Divide the dough into 6 pieces. Form the pieces into balls and flatten between your palms, gently pressing to form a ¼-inch-thick patties, then gently press around side to eliminate cracks. Place the shaped arepas on wax paper.
- Heat oil in the cast-iron skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, then fry arepas in 2 batches, turning over once, until deep golden in patches, about 8 to 10 minutes total per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Aji
- Put all the ingredients in a food processor or blender and process until slightly blended, but still a bit chunky. Dollop on top of the cooked arepas.
Nutrition
Serving: 2small arepas | Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 17mg | Sodium: 183mg | Potassium: 95mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 307IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 174mg | Iron: 2mg