If you're craving a taste of Venezuela that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more, look no further than the delectable Arepa with Cheese, Chorizo, and Chimichurri Sauce! This mouthwatering dish combines the comforting goodness of golden, crispy arepas with the savory richness of crumbled chorizo and gooey melted cheese, all topped off with a vibrant chimichurri sauce that packs a punch of flavor. Perfect for any meal or as a crowd-pleasing snack, these arepas are not just food; they're an experience! Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a dish that will impress your family and friends!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Venezuelan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups arepa flour
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup cheese (mozzarella or feta)
- 8 oz chorizo, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup chimichurri sauce
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the arepa flour and salt. Gradually add warm water while mixing with your hands until a smooth, cohesive dough forms. The consistency should be soft but not sticky.
- Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to allow the flour to fully hydrate. Knead the dough gently to ensure even moisture.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a disc about 1/2 inch thick using your palms.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
- Cook the arepas for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and sound hollow when tapped.
- While the arepas are cooking, prepare the chorizo by cooking it in a separate pan until crispy and fully browned. Drain excess fat on paper towels.
- Once the arepas are cooked, carefully slice them horizontally, creating a pocket for filling.
- Stuff each arepa with crumbled chorizo and cheese, ensuring even distribution.
- Return the stuffed arepas to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese and warm the filling.
- Remove from heat and generously drizzle chimichurri sauce over the top of each arepa.
- Serve immediately while hot, with extra chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips
- Choose the Right Flour: For the best texture, use high-quality arepa flour, known as masa harina or pre-cooked corn flour, which is essential for achieving that perfect dough consistency.
- Water Temperature Matters: Use warm water when mixing the dough; it helps the flour hydrate better, resulting in softer arepas.
- Resting the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest for 5 minutes is crucial as it helps the flour absorb the moisture evenly, making it easier to shape.
- Perfect Cooking Temperature: Ensure your skillet is at medium heat before adding the arepas. If the heat is too high, they may burn on the outside while remaining raw inside.
- Experiment with Fillings: While this recipe features chorizo and cheese, feel free to get creative! Try other fillings like shredded chicken, avocado, or black beans to suit your taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your arepas hot and fresh, accompanied by extra chimichurri sauce for dipping, or pair them with a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the arepas in advance and reheat them in the skillet for a quick meal or snack later on.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg
