# Arepas Recipe
Canonical URL: https://thefoodthatshapedus.com/recipes/arepas
Publication state: published
Updated: 2026-08-02
Primary keyword: arepas recipe
A practical, source-aware recipe for arepas, with the history kept close to the method.
## Timing and Yield
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Cook: 30 minutes
- Total: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4  Servings
## Ingredients
- 2 cups arepa flour (precooked cornmeal)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Desired fillings (such as shredded cooked chicken or pork, stewed black beans with cheese and lime, corn salad with onion and fresh herbs; for serving)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Arepa flour is precooked corn flour, not to be confused with masa harina. Sometimes sold as masarepa or harina precocida, it can be found in Latin markets and some supermarkets.
## Method
1. Step 1: Combine arepa flour and salt in a medium bowl. Make a well in the center and add 2½ cups warm water. Using a wooden spoon, gradually incorporate dry ingredients, stirring until no dry lumps remain. Let rest 5 minutes to hydrate.
   Step image: https://thefoodthatshapedus.com/images/recipes/steps/arepas-step-1.webp
   Image description: Step 1: Step 1 for Arepas.
2. Step 2: Knead dough a few times in bowl, then divide into 8 pieces. Roll each piece on work surface into a ball, then gently flatten to about ½” thick.
   Step image: https://thefoodthatshapedus.com/images/recipes/steps/arepas-step-2.webp
   Image description: Step 2: Step 2 for Arepas.
3. Step 3: Heat 1 Tbsp. oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 4 arepas, cover, and cook until golden brown, 6–8 minutes. Uncover, flip, and cook (keep uncovered) until other side is golden brown, 6–8 minutes. Transfer arepas to a wire rack. Repeat with remaining 1 Tbsp. oil and dough.
   Step image: https://thefoodthatshapedus.com/images/recipes/steps/arepas-step-3.webp
   Image description: Step 3: Step 3 for Arepas.
4. Step 4: Split arepas and stuff with desired fillings; serve with lime wedges for squeezing over.
   Step image: https://thefoodthatshapedus.com/images/recipes/steps/arepas-step-4.webp
   Image description: Step 4: Step 4 for Arepas.
## Storage
Cool completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat only when the texture benefits from it.
## History Context
This bread builds on the history of the new world grain that transformed global agriculture, linking the dish to corn / maize’s longer story in food culture.
## Primary Image
- URL: https://thefoodthatshapedus.com/images/recipes/variants/arepas/arepas-og.webp
- Description: Arepas. Photo: Neoredacturus / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0).
- Status: editorial-placeholder
## Sources
1. Original Arepas recipe. Bon Appétit. https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/arepas