Arepa de Queso is one of the most common vegetarian foods in Colombia and is eaten across the entire country. It is a thick corn cake made from precooked corn flour mixed with cheese, usually eaten for breakfast or as an afternoon snack with coffee. Street vendors cook it on flat grills, while at home it is prepared in a simple pan. The outside should be lightly golden and crisp, while the inside stays soft and slightly stretchy from the melted cheese.
😌 Difficulty: Easy
⏱️ Preparation time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cooking time: 15 minutes
⏳ Total time: 30 minutes
👥 Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups precooked white corn flour (Harina PAN or other masarepa)
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 cup grated mozzarella (or queso fresco – fresh white cheese)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter or oil for cooking
Typical side
- Butter for spreading
- Fresh avocado slices
Instructions
- Pour warm water into a large bowl and add salt. Stir.
- Slowly add the corn flour while mixing until no dry flour remains.
- Add grated cheese and knead gently until soft and smooth.
- Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Divide into 4 balls and press into thick discs.
- Cook 5-7 minutes per side until golden.
- Serve warm.
SpinThatCuisine Tip 💡
If the edges crack while shaping, the dough is too dry. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water and knead again.