Venezuela cuisine
Arepa pelua
Savor the savory delight of Arepa Pelua, a Venezuelan classic bursting with cheese and ham, perfect for a hearty lunch.
Arepa Pelua is a beloved Venezuelan sandwich made by splitting open an arepa (corn cake) and stuffing it with melted cheese and crispy ham. Its warm, gooey texture contrasts beautifully with the crisp exterior of the arepa, making each bite a symphony of flavors. Serve alongside a fresh avocado salad for a balanced meal.
Method
- 1
Cook the meat: Place the flank steak in a pot with broth or water and salt. Cook over low heat for about 2 hours, until tender and easy to shred.
- 2
Shred the meat: Once cooked, drain and shred the meat using two forks.
- 3
Prepare the vegetables: Sauté chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic in a little oil. Add cumin, oregano, paprika, and salt. Stir in the meat and cook for a few minutes until the flavors are well combined.
- 4
Make the dough: In a bowl, mix the cornmeal with warm water and salt until a soft dough forms. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
- 5
Form the arepas: Divide the dough into 6 portions, shape into balls, and flatten into thick discs.
- 6
Cook: Cook the arepas on a griddle or skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden. You can then bake them for a few minutes if you prefer them crispier.
- 7
Fill: Slice the arepas open on one side, fill with the hot shredded beef, and top with grated cheese.
FAQ
Is «Arepa pelua» gluten-free?
Yes. «Arepa pelua» is a gluten-free recipe, safe for celiac disease when you use certified gluten-free products.
How many calories and carbs are in a serving of «Arepa pelua»?
One serving has 695 kcal, 2.5 g carbs, 52.5 g protein and 50.1 g fat. The recipe makes 7 servings.
Is «Arepa pelua» suitable for gestational diabetes (GDM)?
Occasionally — watch your portion size. Carb load: низкая. This is not medical advice — with GDM, check with your doctor and glucose meter.