Fresh Arepas Latino Cheese Sausage (Printable Version)
Crispy corn arepas packed with melty cheese, sausage, and bold hot sauce for a rich street-food experience.
# What You'll Need:
→ Arepa Dough
01 -
2 cups precooked white cornmeal (such as PAN brand)
02 -
2.5 cups warm water
03 -
0.5 teaspoon salt
04 -
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking arepas)
→ Filling
05 -
0.5 cup Latino-style cheese (queso fresco or queso blanco), crumbled or sliced
06 -
1 cup fully cooked sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces (Spanish chorizo, Colombian butifarra, or smoked sausage recommended)
07 -
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing sausage)
→ Toppings
08 -
Latin hot sauce (ají, chipotle, or habanero-based, to taste)
09 -
Optional: sliced avocado
10 -
Optional: fresh cilantro leaves
11 -
Optional: thinly sliced pickled red onions
# Steps To Follow:
01 -
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and salt. Gradually add the precooked white cornmeal, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Allow the mixture to rest for 2–3 minutes so the cornmeal fully hydrates, then knead for approximately 2 minutes until the dough is smooth. If cracks appear, incorporate a small amount of additional water.
02 -
Divide the dough evenly into four portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten gently to form discs approximately 1.25 cm thick.
03 -
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly brush with vegetable oil. Cook the arepas for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until the exterior is golden and crisp. For a fluffier texture, transfer to a 190°C oven for an additional 10 minutes.
04 -
While the arepas cook, heat olive oil or butter in a small frying pan over medium heat. Sauté the sausage pieces until browned and sizzling, about 5 to 6 minutes.
05 -
Allow the cooked arepas to rest briefly, then carefully cut each one open halfway to form a pocket. Fill with Latino cheese and warm sausage. Generously drizzle with hot sauce and garnish with optional toppings as desired. Serve warm.
# Notes and Tips:
01 -
Ensure the arepa dough is kneaded until smooth for a uniform texture. Resting the dough allows proper hydration and prevents cracking during cooking.
02 -
Pairing freshly made arepas with chilled agua fresca or tamarind soda enhances the traditional street food experience.