Authentic Colombian Arepas – Colombian Cheese Arepa Recipe

Authentic Colombian Arepas: A Taste of Tradition

Crisp on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, authentic Colombian arepas are a cornerstone of Colombian cuisine. Whether served at breakfast, as a mid-day snack, or alongside dinner, this versatile dish has been a cherished part of Colombian life for centuries.

Traditionally made with fresh corn, arepas were a labor of love, requiring time and care to prepare. Today, precooked cornmeal offers a modern shortcut while preserving the dish’s essence. During my last visit to Colombia, I had the chance to make arepas the traditional way, with freshly ground corn—a hands-on reminder of how deeply food connects us to culture and history.

Colombian Arepas

Authentic Colombian arepas are as varied as the country itself. They can be simple or indulgent, served plain or with cheese, butter, or sauces like hogao. Their beauty lies in their adaptability—each region and family has its own take, making them an enduring symbol of community and creativity.

Curious to learn more about the traditions behind dishes like these? We’ve partnered with local travel agency and changemaker, Impulse Travel, to bring you Let’s Eat Colombia, our food and cultural holiday. Together, we dive into Colombia’s culinary heritage, including hands-on experiences like preparing arepas. It’s a journey into the flavors, stories, and people who make this cuisine so special.

Now, it’s your turn to bring this beloved dish to life. Try the recipe below and maybe even give it your twist. We’d love to hear how your arepas turn out—share your creations and tips in the comments!

Explore Let’s Eat Colombia

Arepa Colombiana con Queso (Colombian Arepa with Cheese)

Classic Colombian arepas, combining a soft, cheesy interior with a golden, crispy exterior. A versatile dish for breakfast or snacks, perfect with savory accompaniments like Hogao.
Servings 6 Arepas
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl, Skillet or Griddle, Measuring Cups, Spatula

Ingredients

  • 300 Grams Precooked Cornmeal (e.g., P.A.N.) 2 ⅓ Cups
  • 375 Milliliters Warm Water 1 ½ Cups
  • 5 Grams Salt 1 Teaspoon
  • 100 Grams Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella, Queso Fresco, or Monterey Jack) 1 Cup
  • 30 Grams Butter (optional, for greasing the skillet) 2 Tablespoons

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the 300 grams (2 ⅓ cups) of precooked cornmeal and 5 grams (1 teaspoon) of salt.
  • Gradually add 375 milliliters (1 ½ cups) of warm water while mixing with your hands or a spoon until a soft dough forms. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
  • Incorporate Cheese:
  • Mix the 100 grams (1 cup) of shredded cheese directly into the dough. Knead until the cheese is evenly distributed.

Shape the Arepas:

  • Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each into a ball, then flatten into a disk about 1–1.5 cm (½-inch) thick.
  • Cook the Arepas:
  • Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with 30 grams (2 tablespoons) of butter or oil.
  • Place the arepas on the hot skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve:

  • Serve warm as is or with butter on top. Arepas can be enjoyed with additional cheese, avocado, or Colombian sauces like Hogao.

Notes

  • For added flavor, use a combination of cheeses or add a small amount of grated Parmesan.
  • If the dough is too dry, add a bit more water, a tablespoon at a time. If it's too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more cornmeal.
  • Leftover arepas can be reheated in a skillet or toaster.

About Let’s Eat Colombia

Discover Colombia’s vibrant flavors and rich culture on Let’s Eat Colombia, a curated food and cultural holiday in partnership with local changemakers, Impulse Travel. This immersive experience takes you beyond the plate, with hands-on cooking classes, market tours, and meaningful connections with the people and traditions that shape Colombian cuisine. From savoring iconic dishes like authentic Colombian arepas to exploring the diverse regions of Cartagena and Medellín, this is more than a holiday—it’s a journey into the heart of Colombia’s heritage.

Learn more and join us!


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