Arepas con Queso (Peanut-Free)

Instructions

1. 1In a large bowl, combine the 2 cups of Pre-cooked White Corn Meal (Masarepa) with the 2 cups of Water and the 1 tsp of Salt. Mix these ingredients together with your hands until they form a smooth, cohesive dough. Knead the dough for about 2-3 minutes until it feels soft and pliable.
2. 2Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Take one portion and flatten it in the palm of your hand into a disc about 7.62 cm wide and 0.635 cm thick.
3. 3Place about 2 tablespoons of the 1 cup of Mozzarella Cheese in the center of the flattened dough disc. Carefully fold the edges of the dough up and around the cheese, pinching them together to seal the cheese inside. Gently flatten the stuffed disc again to form a slightly thicker arepa, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed.
4. 4Repeat step 3 with the remaining 7 portions of dough and cheese.
5. 5Heat the 1 tbsp of Vegetable Oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should reach approximately 175°C.
6. 6Carefully place the stuffed arepas into the hot oil in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on the first side, until they are golden brown and slightly puffed. Flip the arepas and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the second side, until they are also golden brown and the cheese inside is completely melted and gooey. You should hear a gentle sizzle as they cook.
7. 7Remove the cooked arepas from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.

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