Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Colombia? Say hello to Arepa con Carne a la Criolla, a delightful dish that combines the comforting embrace of golden, crispy arepas with the rich, savory flavors of seasoned beef. This recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings friends and family together around the table. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of love, you can create a mouthwatering feast that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover the magic of Colombian cuisine!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Colombian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups arepa flour
- 2 cups water
- 1 pound beef, cooked and shredded
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine arepa flour with water. Knead the mixture until it forms a smooth, consistent dough without lumps. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round, flat disk about 1/2 inch thick using your hands or a tortilla press.
- Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Cook the arepas for about 5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and sound hollow when tapped.
- In a separate large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic until they become soft and translucent.
- Add the shredded beef to the skillet. Sprinkle cumin, salt, and pepper over the meat. Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors and warm the meat thoroughly.
- Once the arepas are cooked and the meat is prepared, carefully slice each arepa horizontally to create a pocket.
- Fill each arepa with the warm, seasoned beef mixture. Serve immediately while hot and fresh.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or serve with a side of lime wedges for added flavor.
Tips
- Perfect Arepa Dough: Ensure your arepa dough is smooth and free of lumps for the best texture. If it feels too dry, add a little more water; if too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour.
- Cooking Arepas: For an extra crispy exterior, consider finishing the arepas in the oven after cooking them on the griddle. Just pop them in at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes.
- Beef Variations: While shredded beef is traditional, feel free to experiment with other meats like chicken or even a vegetarian filling using beans or mushrooms.
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the beef filling by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your arepas with a side of avocado, fresh salsa, or a sprinkle of crumbled cheese to elevate your dish even further.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the arepa dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bring it back to room temperature before cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 75mg
