# Queso Blanco-Filled Arepa Recipe

## Ingredients:

- 2 cups precooked white corn meal (masarepa)
- 2 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil for cooking
- 200g Queso Blanco, sliced or crumbled

## Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the corn meal and salt. Gradually add warm water, kneading until you have a smooth, pliable dough. Let rest for 5 minutes.

2. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disc about 1/2 inch thick.

3. Heat oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.

4. Cook arepas for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Carefully split the arepa open, keeping one side intact.

6. Stuff each arepa generously with slices or crumbles of Queso Blanco.

7. If desired, return the stuffed arepas to the skillet for a minute or two to slightly melt the cheese.

Serve immediately while still warm.

## Yield:

6-8 Queso Blanco-filled arepas

## Note:

If Queso Blanco is unavailable, you can substitute with other fresh white cheeses like feta or farmer's cheese, though the flavor will be slightly different.