Arepas

Arepas are round, flat cakes made from ground corn dough. They are one of the most important foods in Venezuela and Colombia. Arepas are grilled, baked, or fried until they have a crispy outside and soft inside. They can be eaten plain, split open and stuffed with fillings, or topped with butter and cheese.

How Arepas Are Made

Arepas are made from a special pre-cooked corn flour called masarepa. The flour is mixed with water and salt to form a soft dough. The dough is shaped into thick, round patties by hand. Then the arepas are cooked on a griddle, baked in an oven, or fried until golden and crispy on the outside. The inside stays soft and warm, perfect for stuffing with fillings.

Arepas in Venezuela and Colombia

In Venezuela, arepas are split open like a pocket and filled with all kinds of delicious ingredients. Popular fillings include shredded beef, black beans, cheese, and avocado. The reina pepiada is a famous Venezuelan arepa filled with chicken salad and avocado. In Colombia, arepas are often simpler, topped with butter and cheese or served alongside meals. Both countries love their arepas.

Fun Facts

• Arepas have been eaten in South America for over 3,000 years.
• Venezuela and Colombia both claim arepas as their national food.
• There are arepera restaurants in Venezuela that are open 24 hours a day.

Did You Know?

The indigenous people of Venezuela and Colombia were making arepas long before Europeans arrived in South America!