Cheese-Stuffed Colombian-Style Arepas Recipe

1. 1

   Preheat toaster oven or oven with rack in the center to 325u00b0F. Combine masarepa, grated cheese (if using), 1 cup water, and 1 teaspoon vegetable oil in a medium bowl and knead with hands until a dough is formed. Take a small amount and flatten it between your palms If the edges crack, knead in more water a tablespoon at a time until dough is supple and smooth but not sticky. Season dough to taste with salt, then cover and set aside for five minutes.

2. 2

   Divide dough into eight even pieces and roll into balls. Working on a wooden cutting board or a regular cutting board with a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper on top of it, flatten each ball down to a disk about 5-inches in diameter and 1/4-inch thick.

3. 3

   Place 1/4 of cheese into center of one disk, leaving a 1/2-inch gap all around.

4. 4

   Place a second disk on top and carefully seal the edges all around, trying to remove as much air from the center as possible.

5. 5

   Use one hand to shape the edges of the arepa so that it is an even round disk.

6. 6

   Melt butter in a 12-inch cast iron or non-stick skillet over medium-low heat (see note #3 above). Add arepas and cook, moving them around the pan and rotating them occasionally, until first side is charred in spots and a dry crust has formed, about five minutes. Flip arepas and cook on second side until a dry crust has formed, about five minutes longer. Transfer to a baking sheet and place in oven until heated through and cheese is melted, about 10 minutes. Serve immediately.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.