| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 200 | 4g | 1g | 36g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 0g | 1g | 4g | 0.2g |
About Gluten-Free Arepa
The Gluten-Free Arepa, a South American culinary gem, provides a delicious and satisfying meal solution for those with gluten sensitivities. This dish, made predominantly from white cornmeal, offers an inviting alternative to traditional bread recipes. It’s humble yet robust exterior contains an interior full of warm, corn-flavored goodness. The Gluten-Free Arepa’s origins can be traced back to the indigenous people of Colombia and Venezuela, though it has recently been adopted by other cultures due to its remarkable compatibility with various meals.
The Versatility of Gluten-Free Arepa Bread
On the surface, you might perceive this Gluten-Free Arepa as a straightforward, simple bread substitution. Though, a closer look will unravel a plethora of gastronomic opportunities that this unique meal can unlock. Not too far-removed from the conventional corn tortillas experienced in Mexican cuisine, this bread parallels their flexibility. Depending on your mood or the time of day, Gluten-Free Arepa can go from being a breakfast delight, filled with scrambled eggs, to a dinner wonder, stuffed with sauteed vegetables, cheese, or shredded meat.
The Culinary Canvas That Is Gluten-Free Arepa Bread
The Gluten-Free Arepa bread provides you with a canvas waiting for your personal culinary flair to give it a unique dimension. Its relatively neutral flavor profile makes it an excellent base to experiment with various fillings, from fresh vegetables to savory meats, cheeses, and even sweet spreads for an adventurous dessert twist. It marries well with most dishes, making it a perfect companion for meals from hearty breakfasts to light lunches, and comforting dinners. For inspiration, try checking out traditional Colombian and Venezuelan recipes, such as the My Colombian Recipes website or the 196 Flavors blog.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups pre-cooked white cornmeal (Gluten-Free)
- 2 cups warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Method
Step One
Start by mixing the pre-cooked white cornmeal and salt together in a large bowl.
Step Two
Gradually add warm water to your mixture, stirring continuously to avoid any lumps. Keep adding water until the dough is soft.
Step Three
Once your dough is ready, cover it with a cloth and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the cornmeal to fully absorb the water.
Step Four
Next, divide the dough into equal-sized portions. Roll each portion into a ball, and then flatten it into a disc, about 1/2 inch thick.
Step Five
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the flattened dough to the skillet. Cook each arepa for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Step Six
Once cooked, transfer the arepas to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat the process until you’ve cooked all your arepas.
Step Seven
Allow the arepas to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your gluten-free arepas!
