CHEESE-STUFFED AREPAS

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Cheese-Stuffed Arepas image

Who knew that arepas were so simple? These delicious corn cakes take no time to make, and are infinitely adaptable. Experiment with toppings like fried eggs, guacamole and Cotija -- a dry and crumbly Mexican cheese.

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories     appetizer

Time 50m

Yield 8 arepas

Number Of Ingredients 4

Kosher salt
2 cups pre-cooked white corn meal, such as P.A.N.
4 ounces part-skim mozzarella, cut into 8 cubes
1/4 cup vegetable oil, or as needed

Steps:

  • Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350 degrees F.
  • Stir together 2 1/2 cups lukewarm water and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt in a large bowl. Gradually add the corn meal into the water, using your fingers to stir and combine, until a soft and moist dough forms.
  • Divide the dough into 8 golf ball-size balls and pat each into a patty about 5-inches wide and 1/4-inch-thick.
  • Put a cube of mozzarella in the center of each patty. Fold the dough over the cheese, making sure the cheese is completely covered and sealed. Pat it back down until 3-inches wide and 1/2-inch-thick (see Cook's Note).
  • Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat until shimmering. Working in batches, cook the corn patties, until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side (making sure the oil is hot for each batch). Transfer to a cooling rack set on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until the edges are crisp and golden, about 10 minutes.

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