Arepas con Queso (Cheese Arepas)

Ingredients

• 2 cups Masa Harina (precooked corn flour)
• 1.5 cups Warm Water
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil

Instructions

1. 1In a large bowl, combine the 2 cups of Masa Harina and the 1 teaspoon of Salt. Gradually add the 1.5 cups of Warm Water while mixing with your hands until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to allow it to hydrate.
2. 2Divide the rested dough into 8 equal portions. Take one portion and roll it into a ball in your hands. Then, gently flatten the ball into a disc that is about 1/2 inch thick.
3. 3Place about 2 tablespoons of the 1 cup of shredded Mozzarella Cheese onto the center of four of the flattened dough discs. Take the remaining four dough discs and place them on top of the cheese-covered discs. Carefully pinch and press the edges of the dough together to completely seal the cheese inside.
4. 4Heat the 2 tablespoons of Vegetable Oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place the sealed arepas into the hot oil.
5. 5Cook the arepas for 5 to 7 minutes on the first side, until they are golden brown and slightly puffed. Carefully flip the arepas and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes on the second side, until they are also golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey. You can gently press on the arepa to check for softness, indicating the cheese is melted.
6. 6Remove the cooked arepas from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve the Arepas con Queso hot.

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