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–+ servings

Weeknight Caracas Arepas Plate with Lemon Wedges

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Make your weeknight dinners easy yet flavorful with this Caracas Arepas Plate! These delicious cornmeal patties are packed with versatility and can be filled with your favorite ingredients. Typically enjoyed in Caracas, Venezuela, this dish is paired with zesty lemon wedges and simple sides that complement the arepas splendidly. So, feel free to experiment with fillings and sides. Let's dive into a meal that’s perfect for any evening!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: South America
Cuisine: Venezuelan
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g arepa flour (masarepa)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 600 ml warm water
  • 200 g shredded cheese (e.g., queso blanco or mozzarella)
  • 400 g cooked shredded chicken or beef (for filling)
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup black beans, cooked and seasoned
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) optional
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving) optional

Equipment

  • Heatproof mixing bowl
  • Non-stick skillet or griddle
  • Cooking spatula
  • Chef's knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the arepa flour and salt. Gradually add warm water while stirring until a dough forms. Knead with your hands for about 2 minutes until smooth.
  2. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to hydrate.
  3. Divide the dough into 8 equal balls and flatten each into a patty approximately 1.5 cm thick.
  4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  5. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 8 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust.
  6. Once cooked, slice the arepas open carefully and fill them with shredded cheese, cooked chicken or beef, and sliced avocado.
  7. Serve with black beans on the side, accompanied by lemon and lime wedges for a bright finish. Enjoy your meal!

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 8gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 750IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

For a vegetarian twist, omit the meat and add more beans, or use roasted vegetables as fillings.
Feel free to get creative with your arepa fillings—try using chorizo, veggies, or different cheeses.
If you have leftovers, store arepas in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on a skillet with a splash of water for best texture!
Enjoy the cooking process, and let this dish remind you of the vibrant flavors of Caracas!

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