Venezuelan arepas crispy on the outside and soft on the inside

What does it include?

Ingredients

• 2 cups precooked corn flour
• 2 1/2 cups warm water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp olive oil (optional)
• Cooking oil (optional)

How to prepare it step by step?

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, combine the corn flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water, mixing with your hand or spoon until a dough forms.
3. Incorporate the olive oil for a softer dough, if desired.
4. Knead for 3-5 minutes until the dough is smooth and homogeneous.
5. Divide the dough into equal portions, depending on the desired size of the arepas.
6. Shape each portion into a ball, then gently flatten to form 1-2 cm thick discs.
7. Preheat a frying pan or griddle over medium-high heat and lightly grease if desired.
8. Place the arepas in the hot pan and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms.
9. Reduce the heat and continue cooking for another 5 minutes per side to ensure they are cooked through.
10. Optionally, finish cooking in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10 minutes to ensure the interior is soft.
11. Remove the arepas and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before opening.
12. Open in half and fill with cheese, ham, chicken, shredded meat, or vegetables to taste.
13. Serve hot, freshly made, accompanied with sauces or garnishes to taste.