Arepas With Vegetarian Stuffing Recipe Easy and Delicious

Arepas are a beloved staple in Latin American cuisine, especially popular in Venezuela and Colombia. These delightful cornmeal cakes are incredibly versatile, serving as a perfect canvas for a variety of fillings.

If you’re looking for a delicious, hearty, and vegetarian-friendly meal, this recipe for arepas with vegetarian stuffing is just what you need. The golden, crispy exterior of the arepas contrasts beautifully with the warm, flavorful vegetable filling, creating a satisfying and wholesome dish that will please vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend brunch, or a festive gathering, these stuffed arepas bring comfort and nutrition together in a way that’s both authentic and easy to make.

Plus, they’re gluten-free and can be tailored to fit many dietary preferences. Ready to dive into this tasty culinary journey?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this vegetarian arepa recipe. First, it’s incredibly adaptable — you can customize the stuffing with your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand.

The arepas themselves are naturally gluten-free, made from simple ingredients like pre-cooked cornmeal, water, and salt.

This recipe is also a fantastic source of fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein, making it a nutritious option for your family. The preparation is straightforward, and the arepas can be cooked on a griddle or skillet, requiring minimal equipment.

You’ll enjoy crispy, golden exteriors with soft, warm centers, paired with a vibrant and flavorful vegetable filling that bursts with fresh herbs and spices.

Plus, these stuffed arepas are perfect for meal prep — make a batch in advance, refrigerate, and simply reheat for a quick, satisfying meal any time. Don’t forget to check out some of our other comforting recipes like Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the fluffy Glazed Twist Donut Recipe for your next kitchen adventure!

Ingredients

• 2 cups pre-cooked white cornmeal (Harina P.A.N. or similar)
• 2 1/2 cups warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for cooking arepas)
• 1 cup black beans, cooked and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, use vegan cheese for dairy-free)
• Juice of 1/2 lime

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium skillet or frying pan
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Griddle, non-stick skillet, or cast iron pan for cooking arepas
• Fork or spoon for mixing

Instructions

1. Prepare the arepa dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pre-cooked cornmeal and salt. Gradually add the warm water while stirring with a fork or spoon to prevent lumps. Once all water is added, knead the dough with your hands until smooth and firm, about 3-5 minutes. Let it rest for 5 minutes so the cornmeal fully absorbs the water.
2. Form the arepas: Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten gently to form discs approximately 1/2 inch thick and 4-5 inches in diameter. Set aside on a clean surface.
3. Cook the vegetable stuffing: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the diced bell pepper, zucchini, and corn kernels to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender but still vibrant. Stir in the diced tomato, cooked black beans, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. If using cheese, mix in half now to help it melt slightly.
6. Cook the arepas: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and brush lightly with olive oil. Place the arepas on the hot surface and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy with a firm crust. They should sound hollow when tapped.
7. Assemble the arepas: Once cooked, allow arepas to cool slightly. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each arepa horizontally to create a pocket, similar to a pita.
8. Stuff each arepa generously with the warm vegetable mixture. Add a little extra shredded cheese if desired for a melty finish.
9. Serve immediately while warm. Enjoy your delicious vegetarian arepas!

Tips & Variations

Tip: If you want a softer arepa, you can wrap them in a clean kitchen towel after cooking and let them steam for a few minutes.

Variation: For a spicy kick, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the vegetable stuffing.

Make it vegan: Use vegan cheese or skip the cheese entirely and add avocado slices for creaminess.

Try different veggies: Mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted sweet potatoes work wonderfully as stuffing.

Pro tip: Leftover arepas can be refrigerated and reheated in a toaster oven or skillet for a quick meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve these vegetarian arepas with a side of fresh avocado slices or a tangy mango salsa for a refreshing contrast. A crisp green salad or a bowl of black bean soup complements the meal beautifully.

For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle some garlic aioli or a zesty cilantro-lime sauce over the stuffed arepas. They also pair well with Latin-inspired beverages like fresh Green Goodness Juice or a chilled glass of horchata.

Conclusion

This recipe for arepas with vegetarian stuffing offers a delicious way to enjoy a classic Latin American dish with a healthy, plant-based twist. The combination of crispy, golden cornmeal cakes with vibrant, seasoned vegetables creates a meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of arepas or trying them for the first time, this recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and spices to make the filling your own. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our other hearty and flavorful dishes like the Half Runner Beans Recipe or the savory Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe.

Happy cooking!

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