Arepas Recipe Vegetarian: Easy and Delicious Plant-Based Ideas

Arepas are a beloved staple in many Latin American countries, especially Venezuela and Colombia. These delicious, golden, cornmeal cakes can be stuffed or topped with a variety of fillings, making them incredibly versatile.

For vegetarians, arepas offer a fantastic base to showcase fresh veggies, cheeses, and flavorful sauces without sacrificing any of the mouthwatering appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newbie looking to explore new cuisines, this vegetarian arepas recipe is straightforward, quick, and packed with wholesome ingredients.

Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner, these arepas will soon become a favorite in your kitchen!

In this post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to make perfect vegetarian arepas from scratch. Plus, I’ll share some creative tips and variations to customize your arepas to your liking.

Ready to dive into this tasty adventure? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients: With basic pantry staples like precooked cornmeal, water, and a pinch of salt, this recipe is easy to whip up anytime.

Vegetarian and customizable: You can stuff or top your arepas with cheese, beans, avocado, or sautéed veggies for a filling, nutritious meal.

Crispy outside, soft inside: The texture contrast makes these arepas irresistible and perfect for dipping or eating on their own.

Gluten-free and wholesome: Made primarily from cornmeal, these arepas naturally avoid gluten and provide a good source of fiber and energy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pre-cooked white or yellow cornmeal (such as masarepa)
• 2 ½ cups warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus extra for cooking)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or queso fresco (optional for filling)
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced (optional for serving)
• 1 cup black beans, cooked and drained (optional filling)
• 1 small tomato, diced (optional)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Non-stick skillet or griddle
• Spatula
• Fork or whisk
• Sharp knife (for slicing)
• Plate lined with paper towels

Instructions

1. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the pre-cooked cornmeal and salt. Slowly pour in the warm water while stirring with a fork or your hands until a soft, pliable dough forms. It should not be too dry or sticky.
2. Let the dough rest: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the cornmeal fully absorb the water.
3. Shape the arepas: Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into discs about ½ inch thick and 4 inches in diameter.
4. Preheat your skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat in a non-stick skillet or griddle.
5. Cook the arepas: Place the discs onto the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. They should sound hollow when tapped.
6. Optional – bake for fluffiness: For a softer interior, transfer the cooked arepas to a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
7. Prepare fillings: While arepas cook, warm the black beans and mix with diced tomato and fresh cilantro for a quick filling. Alternatively, have sliced avocado and shredded cheese ready.
8. Assemble the arepas: Slice the arepas halfway through to create a pocket. Stuff with your choice of fillings like black beans and cheese, or simply top with avocado slices. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

“If your dough feels crumbly or dry, add a little more warm water, one tablespoon at a time.”

For a vegan version, skip the cheese or use your favorite plant-based cheese alternative. You can also experiment by stuffing arepas with sautéed mushrooms, roasted peppers, or even a fresh tomato salsa.

Try adding herbs like oregano or cumin to the dough for a subtle flavor twist. To make them extra crispy, finish cooking the arepas in a lightly oiled oven-safe pan under the broiler for a minute or two.

Want a spicy kick? Add some finely chopped jalapeños into the bean filling or top with hot sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Arepas are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and drinks. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

For breakfast, try topping them with scrambled eggs and avocado.

Looking for a refreshing drink? Check out my Green Goodness Juice Recipe to accompany your meal.

For a sweet finish, why not try a dessert like Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or indulge in the Goat Milk Ice Cream Recipe No Eggs.

Conclusion

Vegetarian arepas are a delightful and nutritious way to enjoy a traditional Latin American classic without meat. Their crispy exterior and soft, warm interior provide the ideal canvas for a variety of tasty fillings.

Whether you prefer them cheesy, packed with beans, or topped with creamy avocado, these arepas are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family or guests.

Making arepas from scratch is simpler than you might think, and once you master this recipe, you can get creative with endless variations. Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on this site that complement arepas perfectly, such as the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe or the Half Runner Beans Recipe.

Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!

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