monzoorskitchen.blospot.com 2mos ago

Monzoor #snacks

Arepas with Shredded Beef (Arepas Rellenas de Carne Mechada) Crispy Corn Cakes Stuffed with Juicy Venezuelan-Style Beef Arepas are iconic cornmeal patties from Venezuela and Colombia, loved for their crisp exterior and soft, pillowy interior. When filled with shredded beef — also known as carne mechada — they become a hearty and satisfying meal. This Arepas with Shredded Beef recipe is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and can be customized with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or black beans. ⭐ Why You’ll Love This Arepas with Shredded Beef Recipe 🌽 Gluten-free and naturally delicious 🥩 Juicy, slow-cooked shredded beef full of Latin flavor 🔄 Endless filling variations — make it your own 🕒 Meal-prep friendly and freezer-safe 🌮 A great alternative to tacos or sandwiches 📝 Ingredients (Serves 4–6) For the Arepas: 2 cups precooked white or yellow cornmeal (Harina P.A.N.) 2 ½ cups warm water 1 tsp salt 1 tbsp oil (for cooking) For the Shredded Beef (Carne Mechada): 1 ½ lbs (700g) beef flank, skirt, or chuck roast 1 onion, chopped 1 bell pepper, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tomato, chopped (or 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes) 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp paprika Salt and pepper to taste 1 tbsp oil 2 cups beef broth or water Optional Fillings & Toppings: Avocado slices or guasacaca (Venezuelan avocado salsa) Queso fresco or shredded cheese Black beans, plantains, or sour cream 🍽️ Instructions Step 1: Make the Shredded Beef Filling In a pressure cooker or pot, add beef, broth, and salt. Simmer until very tender (1 hour stovetop or 30 min pressure cooker). Remove beef and shred using two forks. In a skillet, heat oil and sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft. Add tomato, spices, and the shredded beef. Cook until flavors blend and most liquid evaporates (~10–15 mins). Set aside. Step 2: Make the Arepas In a bowl, mix warm water, salt, and cornmeal. Stir until a soft dough forms. Let it rest for 5 minutes. Shape into smooth discs about 1/2 inch thick. Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook arepas for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Optionally bake in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for another 10 minutes for a fluffier center. Step 3: Assemble Slice open arepas halfway (like a pita). Fill generously with shredded beef and toppings of your choice. 👩‍🍳 Tips & Variations Use chicken, pork, or black beans for different fillings Make mini arepas for party appetizers Add spicy ají sauce, pickled onions, or garlic mayo for extra flavor Store cooked arepas in the fridge for up to 3 days — reheat on a skillet or toaster 🍴 What to Serve with Arepas Avocado salad or plantain chips Fresh lime juice or tropical juices Serve with rice and beans for a complete Latin-style plate Enjoy with salsa criolla or chimichurri on the side 📦 Storage & Meal Prep Store arepas and shredded beef separately in the fridge for up to 4 days Both components can be frozen for 1–2 months Reheat arepas in a toaster oven or skillet for best texture 📌 Pin It for Later! Crispy. Juicy. Authentic. Save this Arepas with Shredded Beef Recipe and treat yourself to a Latin American favorite at home!