Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCHICA MiamiArepa Basket Recipe

Arepa Basket Recipe

Inspired by CHICA Miami
Time45m
Serves4

Ají Amarillo

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Ingredients

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Arepa Dough

Method

Preparing Arepa Dough

  1. 1

    Mix Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the pre-cooked cornmeal, warm water, and salt. Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a dough.

  2. 2

    Knead the Dough

    Knead the dough in the bowl for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too dry, add a little more warm water.

  3. 3

    Form Arepas

    Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball, then flatten them into discs about ½ inch thick.

Cooking Arepas

  1. 4

    Preheat the Grill or Pan

    Heat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium heat and add a little vegetable oil.

  2. 5

    Cook Arepas

    Place the arepas in the skillet or on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust.

  3. 6

    Finish Cooking

    Transfer the arepas to an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 10 minutes to ensure they are cooked through.

Making Ají Amarillo Sauce

  1. 7

    Prepare Ingredients

    If using fresh Ají Amarillo peppers, remove the stems and seeds. If using canned, drain them.

  2. 8

    Blend Sauce

    In a blender, combine the Ají Amarillo peppers, garlic clove, lime juice, mayonnaise, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.

  3. 9

    Adjust Seasoning

    Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more lime juice or salt to taste.

Serving

  1. 10

    Serve Arepas

    Cut a slit in each arepa to create a pocket, then fill with your desired ingredients (e.g., cheese, avocado, meats) and drizzle with Ají Amarillo sauce.

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