Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering culinary journey that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Colombia! This Arepa con Cerdo isn't just a meal—it's an explosion of flavors that combines tender shredded pork, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy avocado sauce nestled inside a perfectly golden arepa. Whether you're a food adventurer or simply craving something extraordinary, this recipe promises to turn an ordinary dinner into an unforgettable gastronomic experience that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Colombian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups arepa flour
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 pound pork, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 avocado
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine arepa flour, warm water, and salt. Mix thoroughly until a smooth, cohesive dough forms. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to hydrate completely.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round, flat disk about 1/2 inch thick. Ensure the edges are smooth and compact.
- Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the arepas for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through.
- While the arepas are cooking, prepare the mushrooms. In a separate skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms over medium-high heat with a pinch of salt and pepper until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- For the avocado sauce, combine ripe avocado, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding a small amount of water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Once arepas are cooked, carefully slice them open to create a pocket. Fill each arepa with shredded pork and sautéed mushrooms.
- Drizzle the avocado sauce generously over the filled arepas. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Dough Consistency is Key: Ensure your arepa dough is neither too dry nor too wet. The perfect dough should hold together easily and form smooth disks without cracking.
- Rest Your Dough: Allow the arepa dough to rest for 5 minutes after mixing. This helps the flour fully hydrate and makes shaping easier.
- Medium Heat Magic: Cook arepas on medium heat to achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust without burning.
- Mushroom Perfection: Pat mushrooms dry before sautéing to ensure they brown nicely instead of steaming.
- Avocado Sauce Hack: Add a small amount of water or olive oil if your avocado sauce is too thick, and always season to taste.
- Serve Immediately: Arepas are best enjoyed hot and fresh, so time your cooking so everything is ready to serve simultaneously.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
