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Arepa Pelua
BeefVenezuela

Arepa Pelua

Arepa Pelua is a classic Venezuela dish that holds a distinguished place in traditional cooking. Celebrated for its wholesome ingredients and time-honored preparation, this dish brings authentic regional character to the home kitchen.

Carefully prepared featuring Beef, Onion, Red Pepper, Garlic, Cumin, Oregano, Paprika, Beef Stock, Cheese and Extra Virgin Olive Oil, the ingredients are simmered and seasoned to achieve a satisfying depth of flavor. The cooking process allows natural aromas to develop, ensuring each portion is both hearty and flavorful.

Serve hot alongside fresh bread, steamed grains, or a crisp seasonal salad for a well-rounded dining experience.

If you enjoy authentic Venezuela cooking, be sure to also explore our recipe for Arepa Pabellón.

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Ingredients

  • Beef500g
  • Onion1
  • Red Pepper1
  • Garlic2 cloves
  • Cumin1 tsp
  • Oregano1 tsp
  • Paprika1 tsp
  • Beef Stock1 L
  • Water2 1/2 cups
  • SaltPinch
  • Cheese200g
  • Extra Virgin Olive OilPinch

Step-by-Step Instructions

12 steps

Interactive Cook Mode: Click any step or circle to check it off as you cook.

Step 1

Cook the meat: Place the flank steak in a pot with broth or water and salt.

Step 2🍲 Simmer⏱️ 2 hours

Cook over low heat for about 2 hours, until tender and easy to shred.

Step 3

Shred the meat: Once cooked, drain and shred the meat using two forks.

Step 4

Prepare the vegetables: Sauté chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic in a little oil.

Step 5

Add cumin, oregano, paprika, and salt.

Step 6🥄 Mix

Stir in the meat and cook for a few minutes until the flavors are well combined.

Step 7🥄 Mix

Make the dough: In a bowl, mix the cornmeal with warm water and salt until a soft dough forms.

Step 8⏱️ 5 minutes

Let it rest for 5 minutes.

Step 9

Form the arepas: Divide the dough into 6 portions, shape into balls, and flatten into thick discs.

Step 10⏱️ 3 minutes

Cook: Cook the arepas on a griddle or skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden.

Step 11🥧 Bake

You can then bake them for a few minutes if you prefer them crispier.

Step 12🔪 Prep

Fill: Slice the arepas open on one side, fill with the hot shredded beef, and top with grated cheese.

👨‍🍳 Chef's Culinary Notes

Cultural Heritage

Arepa Pelua carries a rich culinary tradition rooted in regional home cooking. Developed over generations, the recipe highlights wholesome local ingredients prepared with time-honored kitchen techniques.

Dietary Substitutions

If using instant dry yeast instead of active dry yeast, you can mix it directly into the dry ingredients without proofing first, reducing wait time by 15 minutes.

Chef Technique Tips

Always ensure liquids used to activate the yeast are comfortably lukewarm (around 38°C–42°C / 100°F–108°F); liquid that is too hot will kill the yeast, while cold liquid delays proofing. Keep the dough in a warm, draft-free spot to rise.

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