Colombian Fried Egg Arepa is a beloved breakfast staple in Colombia, known for its simplicity and satisfying flavors. This dish features a cornmeal patty, known as an arepa, filled with cheese and topped with a fried egg. Arepas have been a fundamental part of Colombian cuisine for centuries, with roots tracing back to pre-Columbian indigenous cultures. Traditionally made with cornmeal, these versatile patties can be enjoyed in various ways, but the combination with a fried egg is particularly popular for breakfast. This dish not only offers a hearty start to the day but also showcases the rich culinary heritage of Colombia.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pre-cooked white cornmeal (masarepa)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pre-cooked white cornmeal, water, and salt. Mix well until a smooth dough forms.
- Add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the dough and knead until evenly distributed.
2. Shape the Arepas:
- Divide the dough into four equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a ball and flatten into a thick patty.
3. Cook the Arepas:
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add vegetable oil.
- Place the arepas in the pan and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Fry the Eggs:
- While the arepas are cooking, heat a separate pan over medium heat.
- Crack the eggs into the pan and cook until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny.
5. Assemble the Dish:
- Once the arepas are cooked, place them on a plate.
- Top each arepa with a fried egg.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
- Serve the Colombian Fried Egg Arepa hot and enjoy!
Notes:
- Pre-cooked white cornmeal (masarepa) is available in Latin American grocery stores or online.
- Adjust the dough consistency with more water if too dry or more cornmeal if too wet.
- Substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar or queso fresco for variation.
This delightful dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a wonderful glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of Colombia, making it a perfect addition to your breakfast repertoire.
Nutrition Value:
1. 1 Cup Pre-Cooked White Cornmeal (Masarepa)
- Calories: Approximately 440 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 90 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of B vitamins, particularly niacin and folate
- Minerals: Provides iron and magnesium
- Nutritional Benefit: Masarepa is a good source of carbohydrates for energy. It also offers dietary fiber and essential minerals like iron and magnesium, which support energy metabolism and overall health
2. 1 Cup Water
- Calories: 0 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: 0
- Minerals: 0
- Nutritional Benefit: Water is essential for hydration and aids in digestion. It helps maintain bodily functions and supports nutrient absorption
3. 1/2 tsp Salt
- Calories: 0 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 1,200 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: 0
- Minerals: Provides sodium
- Nutritional Benefit: Salt is important for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function, but should be used in moderation due to its high sodium content
4. 1/2 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- Calories: Approximately 160 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
- Vitamins: Good source of calcium and vitamin A
- Minerals: Rich in calcium and phosphorus
- Nutritional Benefit: Mozzarella cheese provides protein and calcium, essential for muscle maintenance and bone health. It also offers vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function
5. 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- Calories: Approximately 240 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 27 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin E
- Minerals: 0
- Nutritional Benefit: Vegetable oil is a source of unsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. It also provides vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage
6. 2 Large Eggs
- Calories: Approximately 140 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Cholesterol: 370 mg
- Vitamins: High in vitamins A, D, and B12
- Minerals: Provides iron, phosphorus, and selenium
- Nutritional Benefit: Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamins A, D, and B12, which support vision, bone health, and energy metabolism
7. Salt and Pepper to Taste
- Calories: 0 kcal (negligible)
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: Varies with the amount of salt used
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Pepper contains small amounts of vitamin K and vitamin C
- Minerals: Pepper provides manganese and iron
- Nutritional Benefit: Pepper adds flavor with minimal calories and provides some antioxidants. Salt enhances flavor but should be used in moderation
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