A white plate with three folded, lightly browned Colombian flatbreads and two rectangular pieces of butter.
A plate with two traditional Colombian arepas, a square piece of butter next to them, a knife on the side, and a small bowl with more butter.

Traditional Colombian Arepas Recipe

A blonde woman in a white suit smiling at a table.Sarah Thompson
Traditional Colombian arepas made with cornmeal, perfect for any meal of the day.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Meal Type Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine Colombian
Servings 4 Arepas
Calories 373 kcal
Difficulty Easy
Ingredient Cost $1.50
Shopping Cost$8

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Non-stick skillet
  • Spatula

Ingredients
 
 

  • 2 cups cornmeal pre-cooked, arepa flour
  • 2 ½ cups water warm
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter or oil

Instructions
 

Prepare the dough:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of pre-cooked cornmeal with 2 1/2 cups of warm water and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix until a dough forms.
    2 cups cornmeal, 2 1/2 cups water, 1/2 teaspoon salt

Shape the arepas:

  • Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Shape each part into a ball, then flatten into a disk about 1/2 inch thick.

Cook the arepas:

  • Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter or oil.
    2 tablespoons butter
  • Place the arepas in the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Serve:

  • Serve the arepas warm with butter, cheese, or your favorite fillings.

Notes

Arepas can be stuffed with cheese, meat, or vegetables for a heartier meal.
Adjust the thickness of the arepas to your preference.

Nutrition

Calories: 373kcalCarbohydrates: 61gProtein: 8gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 352mgPotassium: 272mgFiber: 8gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 177IUCalcium: 12mgIron: 3mg
Keyword Arepas, Colombian Cuisine, Comfort Food, Traditional Dish

Ingredient Costs: Cost of Recipe by Ingredient Measurements

Shopping Costs: Cost of Recipe with Brand New Ingredient Purchases

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Arepas are traditional Colombian cornmeal cakes that offer versatility and comfort, making them a beloved staple in many households. These delicious cakes can be enjoyed at any meal—breakfast, lunch, or dinner—and can be filled or topped with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, meats, or vegetables. The ease of preparing arepas allows for creativity in the kitchen, adapting to different tastes and preferences. With the availability of international groceries, finding the ingredients to make arepas becomes convenient, allowing this comforting dish to connect individuals to their roots while embracing new culinary experiences. Whether grilled, baked, or fried, arepas provide a satisfying and nostalgic taste of home.

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A woman in an apron smiles while using a tablet in a kitchen. Fresh vegetables, including tomatoes and lettuce, are on the counter.

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