Ground Beef Arepa Recipe

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.

Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Arepas

In a large bowl, combine the masa harina and salt. Gradually add the water, stirring until the mixture forms a dough.

Knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into 6 equal balls and flatten each ball into a disc about 1 inch thick.

Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each arepa for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Keep warm.

Fry the Plantains

Peel the ripe plantains and slice them diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces.

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the plantain slices and fry until golden brown on each side, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Remove the fried plantains and drain on paper towels. Set aside.

Assemble the Arepas

Slice each arepa in half horizontally to create a pocket.

Stuff each arepa with the seasoned ground beef filling, a few pieces of fried plantains, a generous scoop of guacamole, and a drizzle of hot sauce and sour cream.

Serve immediately while warm.