Dairy-Free Arepa with Shredded Beef and Cheese

Indulge in the rich, Latin-inspired flavors of this Dairy-Free Arepa with Shredded Beef and Cheese, a mouthwatering recipe perfect for those seeking a delicious gluten-free and dairy-free option. These golden, crispy arepas made from precooked cornmeal are stuffed with tender, slow-simmered shredded beef seasoned with savory spices like cumin and paprika. Topped with creamy non-dairy cheese, such as Daiya shreds, this dish delivers comfort and indulgence without compromising dietary needs. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes and the aromatic satisfaction of slow cooking, this recipe makes for an ideal dinner or weekend meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a refreshing finish and serve piping hot for a hearty dish that’s both satisfying and flavor-packed.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:180 mins

Total Time:210 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 2 cups precooked cornmeal (P.A.N. or similar)
• 2.5 cups warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound beef brisket or chuck roast
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup non-dairy cheese (such as Daiya shreds)
• 0 to taste salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the precooked cornmeal, warm water, and salt. Mix well until a dough forms. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes.

Step 2

Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly oil with one tablespoon of vegetable oil.

Step 3

Divide the arepa dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into discs about 1/2 inch thick.

Step 4

Cook the arepas on the heated griddle for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Set aside.

Step 5

In a large pot, heat the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

Step 6

Add the beef brisket to the pot and brown on all sides. Once browned, add the beef broth, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the beef simmer for about 2.5 to 3 hours or until it is fork-tender and can be easily shredded.

Step 8

Remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the pot and stir to combine with the cooking juices.

Step 9

Slice open each arepa and stuff with a generous amount of shredded beef and non-dairy cheese. Optional: sprinkle with fresh cilantro.

Step 10

Serve hot and enjoy your dairy-free arepas with shredded beef and cheese.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1289.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	604.8

Total Fat 56.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 8.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 19.5g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4176.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 21.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.4g	0%
Total Sugars 8.5g
Protein 9.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 104.5mg	0%
Iron 4.2mg	0%
Potassium 870.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 80.7%

Protein: 5.9%

Carbs: 13.4%