Black Bean Arepas

🛒 Ingredients

• Pre-cooked white cornmeal 100 g · 360 kcal
• Water 150 g · 0 kcal
• Cooked black beans 200 g · 260 kcal
• Onion 20 g · 8 kcal
• Garlic 5 g · 7 kcal
• Red bell pepper 20 g · 6 kcal
• Olive oil 10 g · 90 kcal
• Cumin powder 1 g · 4 kcal

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the arepa dough: In a large bowl, combine the pre-cooked white cornmeal, a pinch of salt (1.5g), and warm water; mix well until a smooth, pliable dough forms. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Shape the arepas: Divide the dough into 2 equal portions and form each into a thick, round patty, about 1 cm thick and 8-10 cm in diameter.
3. Cook the arepas: Heat a lightly oiled griddle or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Cook the arepas for 7-10 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp, then remove and set aside.
4. Prepare the black bean filling: In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the cooked black beans, cumin powder, and a pinch of salt (1.5g) to the pan. Lightly mash about half of the beans with a spoon or fork, adding a little water to create a creamy but still chunky mixture.
6. To serve, carefully slice each arepa horizontally about two-thirds of the way through, creating a pocket. Fill generously with the warm black bean mixture and serve immediately.