Arepas (cornflour patties)

These are native to Colombia and Venezuela.

2 C yellow masa (corn) flour
1 t salt
3 C boiling water
3 T peanut or vegetable oil

Preheat the oven to 400 F. In a large bowl, stir the masa and salt together. Add the boiling water and mix into a dough. Cover the bowl and set it aside for about 10 minutes.

With damp hands, form 6 balls of dough. Carefully pat each one until it’s about 3 inches across and 3/4 inch thick, with smooth, uncracked edges.

Heat the oil in a heavy skillet and saute the arepas over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes per side, until they have formed a brown crust on both sides. Then transfer them to a baking sheet and bake them for about 20  minutes, until they sound hollow when tapped.

Slice in half and serve with butter, cheese, sandwich fillings, or beef.

 

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