Mini Arepas Recipe
Make Mini Arepas Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Arepa Dough
Optional Fillings & Toppings
Method
Arepa Dough
- 1
Mix
In a medium bowl, combine 1 tsp fine sea salt with 1.5 cups warm water and 1 tablespoon of the vegetable oil. Slowly add 2 cups pre-cooked white cornmeal to the water while stirring with a wooden spoon or your hand to avoid lumps.
- 2
Hydrate & Rest
Once combined, knead the mixture in the bowl for 1–2 minutes until smooth and no dry streaks remain. The dough should be soft and slightly moist but not sticky; if too dry, add water 1 tbsp at a time; if too wet, sprinkle up to 1–2 tbsp more cornmeal. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let rest 5–10 minutes to fully hydrate.
- 3
Portion & Shape
Lightly oil your hands with the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (about 1.5 oz / 40–45 g each). Roll each piece into a smooth ball, then flatten gently with your palm to form discs about 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm) wide and about 1/2 inch (1.2 cm) thick. Smooth the edges so they don’t crack.
- 4
- 5
Cook Arepas
Place the shaped mini arepas in the hot skillet (work in batches if needed). Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until a golden crust forms on the bottom. Flip and cook another 4–5 minutes on the second side. Reduce heat to medium-low and press gently with a spatula; cook 2–3 more minutes per side until cooked through and deeper golden. Internal texture should be tender.
- 6
Optional Finish in Oven
For very even cooking and a slightly puffed interior, transfer the browned arepas to a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.
Fillings & Toppings
- 7
Prepare Fillings
If using shredded cheese, have it ready. Warm black beans in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 4–5 minutes until heated. Slice avocado and set out pickled onions and crumbled cheese.
- 8
Split Arepas
Allow cooked mini arepas to cool 2–3 minutes until safe to handle. Using a small serrated knife, slice each arepa horizontally about two-thirds of the way through, creating a pocket for fillings. Alternatively, slice fully in half for open-faced presentation.
- 9
Assemble
Fill each mini arepa with your desired combination—e.g., a spoonful of warm black beans, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella (it will melt slightly from residual heat), crumbled queso fresco, a few slices of avocado, and top with pickled red onions. Spread a little butter inside or on top if desired.
- 10