Arepa Reina Pepiada

Introduction

The Arepa, a staple of Venezuelan cuisine, is a versatile flatbread made from ground maize dough. Among its many variations, the Arepa Reina Pepiada holds a special place in the hearts of many. This delectable dish, filled with a creamy chicken salad, is not only a manifestation of Venezuelan culinary heritage but also a symbol of its innovative spirit.

The origin of the name "Reina Pepiada" dates back to the 1950s, coined in honor of Susana Duijm, the first Venezuelan Miss World, where "Pepiada" colloquially means "curvaceous." This dish encapsulates a sense of pride and celebration, making it a quintessential part of Venezuelan food culture.

Ingredients

• Arepa dough
• Chicken breast
• Avocado
• Mayonnaise
• Onion
• Cilantro
• Lime
• Salt
• Pepper
• Vegetable Oil

Preparation of the Arepas

1. To prepare the arepa dough, combine precooked cornmeal with water and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix until a soft dough forms. Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes.
2. Divide the dough into small sections and shape each into a ball. Flatten the balls into discs about 1/2-inch thick.
3. Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each arepa for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to a pot of boiling water and cook for approximately 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Use a cooking timer to ensure precise timing.
3. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the water and let it cool before shredding it into small pieces.

Making the Filling

1. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced avocado, chopped onion, and a handful of cilantro.
2. Add a generous amount of mayonnaise to the mixture, stirring until you reach your desired creaminess.
3. Squeeze the juice of a lime over the mixture, adding a fresh citrus flavor.
4. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Assembly

1. Carefully slice each cooked arepa in half, creating a pocket for the filling.
2. Spoon the chicken and avocado mixture generously into the pocket of each arepa.

How to Enjoy

Enjoy your Arepa Reina Pepiada by serving it warm, accompanied by a refreshing drink or a side salad. This dish can be savored as a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

The creaminess of the avocado and the zesty notes of lime perfectly complement the softness of the arepa and the savory richness of the chicken.

Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, the Arepa Reina Pepiada is a dish that celebrates the vibrant culinary landscape of Venezuela and is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who savor its delightful flavors.