Colombian Arepas

Colombian Arepas

Serves 4-6

The secret ingredient in this recipe is ricotta cheese. The ricotta gives flavour and a creamy texture in the middle.
Ingredients:

1 cup pre-cooked white or yellow cornmeal (example: P.A.N. or Masarepa )

3/4 cups ricotta cheese

1-2 teaspoons salt

Note: I like to add a pinch OR 1/8 teaspoon cumin.

1 cup hot water

2-3 tablespoons butter

Note: Do NOT burn the butter.
Method: 

1. Add cornmeal, ricotta cheese, and salt in a medium size bowl. With one hand, mix it all together. Then with your other hand slowly add the hot water until the mixture comes together like pizza dough. Knead for 5-10 minutes until it becomes a soft dough. Let it rest in the bowl for 10 minutes with a damp paper towel over it.

2. Preheat your saute or grilling pan on medium heat. Divide the dough into 4 - 6 equal parts. Roll it into a ball then flatten it into an arepa. Round and 4-5 inch’s in width or whatever thickness you like. Once all of them are formed, add butter to your pan and let melt. Add as many arepas as you can fit comfortably into the pan and let them cook for 3-5 minutes on each side or until golden.

3. Serve immediately with cooked eggs any style, sausage and fresh white cheese.