Arepas are versatile, naturally gluten-free cornmeal patties, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are typically split open and generously stuffed with various fillings. This recipe includes two classic fillings: Reina Pepiada (chicken and avocado salad) and Domino (black beans and cheese).

Prep Time	Cook Time	Makes
30 minutes	30 minutes	8 Arepas

Part A: Ingredients

For the Arepas

• 2 cups Pre-cooked Cornmeal Flour (Harina P.A.N. or Masarepa).
• 2.5 cups Warm Water, 1 tsp Salt.
• Oil or Butter (for cooking).

For the Fillings

• Reina Pepiada (Queen Pepiada): 1.5 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken, 1 large Avocado (mashed), $1/4$ cup Mayonnaise, 1 Tbsp Cilantro (chopped), Salt and Pepper.
• Domino: 1.5 cups Cooked Black Beans (drained), 1 cup Shredded White Cheese (Queso Blanco or Monterey Jack).

Part B: Instructions

Step 1: Make the Arepa Dough

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the salt in the warm water. Slowly add the Harina P.A.N. (cornmeal) to the water, mixing with your hands until a soft, uniform dough forms.
2. Let the dough rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the cornmeal to fully hydrate. The dough should be smooth, firm, and not sticky.
3. Divide the dough into 8 equal balls. Pat and shape each ball into a patty, about 4 inches wide and $3/4$ inch thick. Smooth out any cracks.

Step 2: Cook the Arepas

1. Heat a griddle (budare) or large, heavy skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease it with oil or butter.
2. Cook the arepas for 8-10 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms.
3. Transfer the seared arepas to a $350^{\circ} \text{F}$ ($175^{\circ} \text{C}$) oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. This cooks the inside completely, puffing them slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Fillings

1. Reina Pepiada: Gently mix the shredded chicken, mashed avocado, mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper.
2. Domino: Combine the warm black beans and shredded cheese.

Step 4: Stuff and Serve

• Remove the arepas from the oven. While still hot, use a knife to slice each arepa horizontally along the edge, creating a pocket (do not cut all the way through).
• Generously fill the pockets with either the Reina Pepiada or the Domino filling. Serve immediately.