Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Dominican Republic with our delightful Dominican Arepa! Bursting with Caribbean flair, this savory corn cake is a fusion of traditional Dominican ingredients and culinary expertise. Made from freshly ground cornmeal, our arepa is expertly cooked to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior. Generously stuffed with a medley of seasoned meats, such as tender shredded chicken or succulent pork, and complemented by locally sourced vegetables and zesty sauces, every bite is a journey to the sunny shores of the Caribbean. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or a satisfying meal, our Dominican Arepa promises to tantalize your taste buds with its irresistible blend of flavors and textures. Experience a taste of paradise with each bite of our Dominican Arepa – a culinary delight that will transport you to the heart of the Dominican Republic!

Here's a recipe for making Dominican Republic Arepas:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded cheese (queso fresco, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 1 cup cooked and shredded meat (chicken, beef, or pork)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)

Instructions:

1- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa) and salt. Gradually add warm water while mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be moist but not sticky.

2- Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.

3- Divide the dough into equal-sized portions, about the size of a golf ball. Flatten each portion into a disk with your hands, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.

4- Place a spoonful of shredded cheese and cooked meat in the center of each dough disk. Fold the dough over the filling to enclose it completely, shaping it into a round or oval shape.

5- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the stuffed arepas in the pan, cooking in batches if necessary.

6- Cook the arepas for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Press down gently with a spatula while cooking to ensure even browning.

7- Once cooked, remove the arepas from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

8- Serve the Dominican Republic Arepas warm with your favorite toppings or accompaniments, such as avocado slices, salsa, or sour cream.

Enjoy your homemade Dominican Republic Arepas filled with delicious cheese or meat!

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients used in the Dominican Republic Arepa recipe per serving:

Pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 0 mg

benefits:

• Provides carbohydrates for energy.
• Contains fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
• Naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Shredded cheese (queso fresco or mozzarella):

• Calories: 110 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Sodium: 180 mg (may vary depending on the type of cheese)

benefits:

• Rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Contains calcium, important for bone health and muscle function.
• Provides healthy fats, which support cell function and nutrient absorption.

Cooked and shredded meat (chicken, beef, or pork):

• Calories: 120-150 kcal (depending on the type of meat)
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Protein: 15-20 g (depending on the type of meat)
• Fat: 6-10 g (depending on the type of meat)
• Fiber: 0 g
• Sodium: 50-100 mg (may vary depending on the seasoning)

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
• Provides satiety, helping to keep you feeling full for longer periods.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and preparation methods used. Additionally, the nutritional values may change if you use different types of cheese or meat.