Arepa pelua
Discover this authentic Colombian Arepa pelua recipe — a rewarding dish that's an impressive dish that showcases your cooking skills. Made with beef, onion, red pepper and 9 more fresh ingredients, this recipe guides you through 7 detailed steps to create a truly memorable meal. Ready in about 135 minutes from start to finish. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this colombian classic is sure to impress.
15
Prep Time (min)
120
Cook Time (min)
4
servings
500
Calories/serving
Hard
Difficulty
Ingredients
- 500 g Beef
- 1 Onion
- 1 Red Pepper
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Oregano
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 L Beef Stock
- 2 cups Water
- Pinch Salt
- 200 g Cheese
- Pinch Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Instructions
7 steps · ~59 minutes total
Step 1
Cook the meat: Place the flank steak in a pot with broth or water and salt. Cook over low heat for about 2 hours, until tender and easy to shred.
5 minutesTaste as you go and adjust seasoning gradually — you can always add more but can't take it away.Step 2
Shred the meat: Once cooked, drain and shred the meat using two forks.
3 minutesSave some of the cooking liquid — it can be used to adjust sauce consistency.Step 3
Prepare the vegetables: Sauté chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic in a little oil. Add cumin, oregano, paprika, and salt. Stir in the meat and cook for a few minutes until the flavors are well combined.
8 minutesKeep your fingers curled under (claw grip) for safety when cutting.Step 4
Make the dough: In a bowl, mix the cornmeal with warm water and salt until a soft dough forms. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
10 minutesTaste as you go and adjust seasoning gradually — you can always add more but can't take it away.Step 5
Form the arepas: Divide the dough into 6 portions, shape into balls, and flatten into thick discs.
3 minutesThe dough is ready when it springs back slightly when poked.Step 6
Cook: Cook the arepas on a griddle or skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden. You can then bake them for a few minutes if you prefer them crispier.
25 minutesAlways preheat your oven fully before baking for even cooking.Step 7
Fill: Slice the arepas open on one side, fill with the hot shredded beef, and top with grated cheese.
5 minutesKeep your fingers curled under (claw grip) for safety when cutting.
💡 Tips & Tricks
🔄 Variations
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Up to 3 days in an airtight container
Freezer
Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge
Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
What to Serve With
Complete your colombian meal with these perfect pairings:
About This Dish
Arepa pelua is a beloved dish from Colombian cuisine, originating in Colombia. With a total preparation time of about 135 minutes, it is a rewarding project for when you have extra time in the kitchen.
Colombian cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavors and cooking traditions that reflect the culture and history of the region. This dish is a wonderful example of its distinctive culinary heritage.
This recipe is rated hard difficulty and uses 12 ingredients. Experienced cooks will appreciate the technique involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main ingredients for Arepa pelua include arepa dough made from masa harina, shredded beef, cheese, and spices.
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Nutrition Facts
4 serving(s) per recipe
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.
