Low Sodium Cheese-Filled Arepas
Indulge in the comforting flavors of these Low Sodium Cheese-Filled Arepas—a healthier twist on the classic Latin American favorite. Made with naturally salt-free ingredients like pre-cooked white cornmeal and unsalted cheeses, these arepas are perfect for those watching their sodium intake without sacrificing flavor. The dough is prepared with a touch of silky unsalted butter and a dash of black pepper for subtle seasoning, while the filling combines creamy mozzarella and crumbled farmer’s cheese to create a molten, cheesy center. Gently pan-fried to golden perfection in a non-stick skillet, each arepa boasts a crispy exterior and a tender, pillowy bite. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with fresh cilantro to enhance the dish with a burst of herbaceous brightness. Ideal as a snack, appetizer, or light dinner, these arepas are a delicious and heart-friendly way to enjoy a beloved comfort food.
Try SnapCalorie's FREE AI assisted nutrition tracking free in the App store or on Android.
Scan with your phone to download!
Ingredients
- 2 cups Pre-cooked white cornmeal (harina PAN)
- 2.5 cups Water
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1 cup Unsalted mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Unsalted farmer's cheese (or queso fresco), crumbled
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Directions
Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pre-cooked white cornmeal and ground black pepper.
Step 2
Gradually add the water to the cornmeal mixture while stirring with a wooden spoon or by hand to prevent lumps. Continue mixing until a smooth and manageable dough forms.
Step 3
Melt the unsalted butter and add it to the dough mixture, combining thoroughly.
Step 4
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disk approximately 1/2 inch thick using your palms.
Step 5
In a small bowl, mix the shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled farmer's cheese together.
Step 6
Take a dough disk in your hand, make a small indentation in the center, and add about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture. Close the edges of the disk to enclose the cheese, then reshape it back into a thick disk.
Step 7
Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Step 8
Cook the arepas in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook each arepa for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 9
Once cooked, remove the arepas from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 10
Optionally, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro before serving for added flavor.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1249.7g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2294.9 |
| Total Fat 127.9g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 66.4g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 16.8g | |
| Cholesterol 312.9mg | 0% |
| Sodium 129.5mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 202.9g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 12.3g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 10.6g | |
| Protein 87.9g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 24IU | 0% |
| Calcium 2141.6mg | 0% |
| Iron 5.6mg | 0% |
| Potassium 633.8mg | 0% |
Source of Calories