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Begin by adding the masa harina and salt into a small mixing bowl and mix it around with your fingers.
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Next add the water and begin mixing and kneading until the dough comes together.
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Continue kneading the dough until it forms a smooth dough and is no longer sticky.
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At this point in time you can add a bit more masa harina if it is too sticky or add a bit more water if it is too dry.
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Divide the dough into 4.
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You basically want to form a medium sized ball that you can flatten down a bit.
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Flatten it to about 1/2 inch thick by the width of your palm (approximately 3 inches).
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Continue this process until you have formed all of the arepas.
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Next heat a large cast iron skillet on medium heat.
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The goal is to use a heavy skillet that can retain really good heat.
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Add the oil and swirl it in the pan.
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Add the arepas to the heated oil and let them cook for 4 minutes on each side.
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You want a golden exterior on both sides.
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During this time, preheat the oven to 250 degrees F.
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When the arepas are golden on each side, add them to a baking sheet and place the sheet in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
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After 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven.
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With a sharp knife make an incision in the side of the arepas, making a pocket in the side.
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The goal is to not slice this all of the way through.
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Just make a nice incision that will allow you to stuff them with the ham and cheese.
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If you notice that the knife is doughy, much like you would see when you pull a knife from cooking a cake or bread, place the arepas back into the oven for another 5 minutes or so.
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Next, stuff a bit of the cheese inside of the arepa.
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Then add some ham, then more cheese on the top of the ham.
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Place them back into the oven for another 5 minutes or until the cheese is nice and melted.
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When you are ready to serve, plate them.
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Serve with a simple salad and a nice drizzle of hot sauce.
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The end result is nothing but awesomeness.
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You have a crunchy exterior with a soft interior.
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The fresh aroma from the masa is amazing.
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And the melted cheese and hamwell, you know where Im going.
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Give them a shot.
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I hope you enjoy.
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Note: I also served these with roasted chicken, cheese, and guacamole.
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But once again the options are endless as to what you put inside of them.
