Colombian Arepas: A Taste of Colombia

Colombian arepas are simple yet delicious corn cakes that are a main part of Colombian food culture. People all over Colombia eat them daily, and their popularity is growing in other countries too, especially after being featured as a magical dish in Disney’s *Encanto*. These soft, round cornmeal cakes can be enjoyed in many ways-from a quick breakfast to a filling meal. They’re easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and a good swap for regular bread.

Colombian arepas are made from pre-cooked corn flour. The dough is shaped into thick disks and cooked until the outsides are golden and a little crispy, while the insides stay soft. Their best feature is how you can serve them-on their own with butter, or filled with cheese, meats, or veggies to make a bigger meal. No matter how you like them, arepas bring a real taste of Colombia to your table.

What Are Colombian Arepas?

Colombian arepas are flat, round patties made from a dough of pre-cooked cornmeal (called masarepa), water, and salt. They’re a must-have on Colombian tables at any time of day. The texture and flavor come from the special corn flour used.

For many Colombians, arepas are more than just food-they remind people of home and family meals. Their simple ingredients and cooking method make them both easy to prepare and comforting to eat.

Main Traits of Colombian Arepas

Compared to Venezuelan arepas, the Colombian kind is usually thinner. They’re cooked on a griddle or grill, giving them a slight crunch outside and softness inside. They’re normally around 7 or 8 inches wide-perfect for eating on the side or topping with other foods.

The base recipe is just masarepa, water, and salt, but sometimes cheese is mixed in. This type, filled with cheese, melts as it cooks and is especially tasty. Arepas are most often eaten for breakfast with eggs or just butter and cheese, but they can also be part of lunch or dinner, helping to soak up stews or serve with meat.

Colombian vs. Venezuelan Arepas

Both Colombia and Venezuela have a long history with arepas, but they prepare them differently. The biggest difference is the size and filling.

– Colombian arepas are thinner and usually served as a side, like bread. Cheese might be in the dough or on top.
– Venezuelan arepas are thicker and smaller. They’re often cut open and stuffed with lots of fillings, like chicken salad, beef, beans, or cheese, turning them into a full meal.

Are Colombian Arepas Gluten-Free?

Yes, Colombian arepas are naturally gluten-free. Masarepa, the main ingredient, is made from corn and doesn’t have gluten. If you’re making arepas at home, just check that your masarepa says “100% corn flour” and doesn’t mention other grains or possible cross-contact with wheat. Almost all well-known brands are already gluten-free.

Types of Colombian Arepas

There are many kinds of Colombian arepas, each with its own flavor and style based on the area of the country. Exploring them is like traveling through Colombia, tasting cheesy arepas from one region and heartier ones from another. Here are some popular types:

What You Need for Colombian Arepas

Making arepas only takes a handful of ingredients, but choosing the right cornmeal is most important for the right taste and feel. From there, toppings and fillings help you make arepas just the way you want.

Masarepa: What It Is and Where to Find It

Masarepa is a special kind of corn flour that’s been cooked, ground, and dried. This process is what lets arepas hold together and stay soft after they’re cooked. Masarepa has a mild flavor and is sold by brands like P.A.N. (in yellow or white packets). Look for it in Latin grocery stores, some large supermarkets, or online if you can’t find it nearby.

Common Fillings and Toppings

• Butter and salt-simple and classic
• Cheese-shredded mozzarella, queso fresco, or any good melting cheese
• Eggs-scrambled or fried
• Meats-shredded beef or chicken, ground meat, or slow-cooked pork
• Beans-refried or black beans for extra protein
• Avocado-sliced for a creamy addition
• Salsas-like Colombian aji or pico de gallo

How to Make Colombian Arepas at Home

Making arepas is easy and doesn’t take a lot of time. With just a few basic items and some simple steps, you can put tasty arepas on your table.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Mix the dough: Put warm water and salt in a bowl. Add masarepa a little at a time while stirring. If you want to add butter or cheese, you can do that now.
2. Knead: Use your hands to mix and knead until the dough is smooth and holds together, not sticky or dry. Mix in cheese if you want it in the dough.
3. Let it rest: Cover the dough and let it sit for 10 minutes so it can absorb the water.
4. Shape the arepas: Make balls a bit bigger than golf balls, then flatten them into discs about 1/4-1/2 inch thick using your hands or by pressing between plastic sheets.
5. Cook: Heat a greased skillet over medium heat. Place the arepas in and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden.
6. Enjoy: Best served warm!

Troubleshooting Dough Consistency

• Use warm water for better mixing.
• If dough cracks, add a spoonful of water at a time. If it’s sticky, add a little more masarepa.
• Knead well so the flour is all soaked and smooth.
• Wet your hands for shaping to avoid sticking.

Cooking Options

• Griddle/Stovetop: Most common, gives a crispy crust and soft inside.
• Baked: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 mins for a firmer arepa that’s easy to slice and fill.
• Fried: Fry for crispy arepas, like arepa de huevo.
• Air Fryer: Air fry at 350°F (180°C) for 7-8 minutes for a healthier crunchy option.

Best Ways to Serve and Fill Arepas

There are almost endless ways to eat arepas, from breakfast to dinner or as a snack. Below are some favorites:

Breakfast and Snack Combos

• Warm arepas with butter and a pinch of salt
• With scrambled eggs, especially huevos pericos (eggs with tomato and onion)
• Alongside hot chocolate or a fruit salad
• Just with cheese for a quick snack

Ideas for Toppings and Fillings

• Cheese: On top or inside, trying different types for variety
• Meats: Shredded beef, chicken, or pork
• Eggs: Scrambled, fried, or hard-boiled
• Beans and Avocado: For a filling and healthy meal
• Salsas: Aji or tomato salsa for extra flavor

You can mix toppings and fillings to create your own favorite arepa meal!

Nutritional Information

Arepas’ nutrition depends on your ingredients and serving style. Here’s a look at what you might expect from basic and cheesy arepas:

Adding more cheese, meats, or toppings will boost these values. Check your own ingredients for exact numbers if needed.

How to Store and Reheat Colombian Arepas

Arepas are great for meal prep. Storing them properly means you can always have some ready to reheat and eat.

Freezing and Thawing

1. Let cooked arepas cool to room temperature.
2. Wrap each one in plastic wrap to keep out freezer air.
3. Place wrapped arepas in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Frozen arepas can last 1-3 months. You don’t have to thaw before reheating-just warm them up straight from the freezer. For best results, you can soften them in the microwave for 30 seconds before using another warming method.

How to Reheat Arepas

• Skillet or Griddle: Heat over medium, 2-3 minutes each side, to bring back some crispiness.
• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Air Fryer: 350°F (180°C), 3-5 minutes for a crisp finish.
• Microwave: Short bursts only (30 seconds with a damp towel), then finish on a skillet or in the oven for texture.

Common Questions About Colombian Arepas

Can you make arepas in advance?

Yes! Make the dough a day ahead and keep it wrapped in the fridge, or fully cook the arepas and save them in the fridge or freezer as described above. Bring dough to room temperature before shaping and cooking.

Are they vegan?

The basic recipe (just masarepa, water, salt) is vegan. To keep them 100% plant-based, skip the butter and regular cheese, and use oils and vegan cheeses or veggie toppings. Always check the ingredient list on masarepa, though most only contain corn.