Cheese-Stuffed Colombian-Style Arepas Recipe

Instructions

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1. 1 Preheat toaster oven or oven with rack in the center to 325°F (160°C). Combine masarepa, crumbled cheese (if using), water, and vegetable oil in a medium bowl and knead with hands until a dough is formed. Take a small amount and flatten it between your palms. If the edges crack, knead in more water, 1 tablespoon at a time until dough is supple and smooth but not sticky. Season dough to taste with salt, then cover and set aside for 5 minutes.
2. 2 Divide dough into 8 even pieces and roll into balls. Working on a wooden cutting board or a regular cutting board with a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper on top of it, flatten each ball down to a disk about 5 inches in diameter and 1/4-inch thick.
3. 3 Place 1/4 of cheese into center of one disk, leaving a 1/2-inch gap all around.
4. 4 Place a second disk on top and carefully seal the edges all around, trying to remove as much air from the center as possible.
5. 5 Use one hand to shape the edges of the arepa so that it is an even round disk.
6. 6 Melt butter in a 12-inch cast iron or non-stick skillet over medium-low heat (see notes). Add arepas and cook, moving them around the pan and rotating them occasionally, until first side is charred in spots and a dry crust has formed, about 5 minutes. Flip arepas and cook on second side until a dry crust has formed, about 5 minutes longer. Transfer to a baking sheet and place in oven until heated through and cheese is melted, about 10 minutes. Serve immediately.