arepa
An arepa is a traditional South American flatbread made from pre-cooked cornmeal dough, typically shaped into a round patty. It is a staple food in Venezuela and Colombia, often grilled, baked, or fried until the exterior is slightly crispy while the inside remains soft and dense. It is incredibly versatile and serves as the foundation for countless meals. You can eat it plain, split it open to stuff with fillings like cheese, shredded meat, avocado, or beans, or serve it as a side dish. It is essentially the "bread" of the region, commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a quick street food snack.
In conversation
Ordering breakfast
I'll have a reina pepiada arepa, please.
I'll have a reina pepiada arepa, please.
Coming right up, would you like extra avocado on that?
Coming right up, would you like extra avocado on that?
'Reina pepiada' is a classic chicken and avocado filling.
Home cooking
The arepas are done! Who wants cheese inside theirs?
The arepas are done! Who wants cheese inside theirs?
Me! Can I have the crispy one?
Me! Can I have the crispy one?
Arepas are a common homemade comfort food.
Examples
I toasted the arepa until it was golden brown.
I toasted the arepa until it was golden brown.
Nothing beats a warm arepa stuffed with salty white cheese for breakfast.
Nothing beats a warm arepa stuffed with salty white cheese for breakfast.
The versatility of the arepa allows it to serve as a canvas for a wide array of savory fillings and toppings.
The versatility of the arepa allows it to serve as a canvas for a wide array of savory fillings and toppings.
