Arepas Reina Pepiada

Introduction to Arepas Reina Pepiada

The Arepa is a significant dish in Venezuelan and Colombian cuisine, embraced for its versatility and rich history. Among the various renditions of the arepa, the Reina Pepiada stands out as a tribute to a real-life beauty queen, Susana Duijm, who became Miss World in 1955. It's a fusion of flavors that blends the rich tradition of the Venezuelan arepa with a sumptuous and creamy chicken filling.

Originating in Venezuela, this version of arepa is known for its savory stuffing made with avocado and chicken, creating a delightful culinary experience. It's ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, offering a combination of textures and tastes that highlight the ingenuity of Latin American cuisine.

Ingredients for Arepas Reina Pepiada

For the Arepas

• 2 cups of precooked cornmeal
• 2 1/2 cups of warm water
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

For the Filling

• 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken
• 1 large ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup of diced white onion
• 3 tablespoons of finely chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation of Arepas Reina Pepiada

Step 1: Making the Arepas

Begin by preparing the dough for the arepas. In a large mixing bowl, combine the precooked cornmeal and salt. Gradually add in the warm water, mixing continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to mix the dough with your hands until it is smooth and homogeneous. Add the vegetable oil to add elasticity to the dough.

Divide the dough into equal parts, rolling each piece into a ball and then flattening them gently into discs about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure each disc is of even thickness for uniform cooking.

Step 2: Cooking the Arepas

Heat a non-stick skillet or a griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil to the skillet and place the arepas in the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they form a golden crust. Once they are nicely golden and sound hollow when tapped, remove from heat and set aside. For precision timing, consider using a cooking timer during this process.

Step 3: Preparing the Reina Pepiada Filling

While the arepas are cooking, start preparing the filling. In a medium-sized bowl, mash the ripe avocado with a fork, and mix in the lemon juice to prevent browning.

Incorporate the cooked and shredded chicken into the mashed avocado, followed by the diced onion, mayonnaise, and chopped cilantro. Stir until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Arepas Reina Pepiada

Once the arepas have cooled slightly, slice each one horizontally to create a pocket. Be cautious not to cut through completely; they should maintain a hinge-like connection.

Generously fill the arepas with the Reina Pepiada mixture, making sure each pocket is well-stuffed with the creamy and flavorful filling.

How to Enjoy Arepas Reina Pepiada

The Arepas Reina Pepiada can be enjoyed fresh and warm. For an authentic experience, pair them with a glass of refreshing limeade or a cold beer. The combination of the savory arepa and the creamy chicken and avocado filling is a true delight. Whether served as a main dish or a snack, these arepas will transform any meal into a celebration of Latin American culinary excellence.

For additional variations, consider adding slices of tomato or lettuce to the filling or serving with a side of black beans for a more robust meal.