Latin American > Venezuelan > Arepas

Arepas with Chorizo and Cheese Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups masarepa (precooked cornmeal)
- 2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ pound chorizo
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large bowl
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Plate

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the masarepa, warm water, olive oil, and salt until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it is smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a flat disc.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chorizo until it is browned and cooked through.
5. Place the discs of dough in the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Remove the arepas from the skillet and place on a plate.
7. Top each arepa with the cooked chorizo and shredded cheese.
8. Serve warm.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Temperature: Medium-high heat
Serving Size: 8 arepas

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 370
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 17g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Masarepa can be substituted with corn flour or cornmeal.
- Chorizo can be substituted with ground beef or pork.
- Cheese can be substituted with any type of shredded cheese.

Variations:
- The arepas can be topped with other ingredients such as cooked vegetables, beans, or salsa.
- The arepas can be served with a side of sour cream or guacamole.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to knead the dough for a few minutes to ensure that it is pliable and easy to work with.
- The arepas can be cooked in a skillet or on a griddle.

Storage Instructions:
The arepas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
The arepas can be reheated in a skillet or on a griddle over medium-high heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
The arepas can be served on a plate with a side of sour cream or guacamole.

Garnishes:
The arepas can be garnished with chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley.

Pairings:
The arepas can be served with a side of rice, beans, or a salad.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Rice
- Beans
- Salad

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a few tablespoons of warm water and knead until it is pliable.
- If the arepas are not cooking evenly, reduce the heat and cook for a few minutes longer.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the chorizo thoroughly before adding it to the arepas.
- Make sure to store the arepas in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Food History:
Arepas are a traditional dish from Venezuela and Colombia. They are made from a dough of masarepa, which is a type of precooked cornmeal.

Flavor Profiles:
The arepas have a savory flavor from the chorizo and cheese, and a slightly sweet flavor from the masarepa.

Serving Suggestions:
The arepas can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or a snack.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Venezuelan

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Spicy, Cheesy, Meaty