Queen of the Arepas: The Regal Reina Pepiada Recipe!

Image of an open Reina Pepiada arepa

Queen of the Arepas: The Regal Reina Pepiada Recipe!

Reina Pepiada arepas, hailing from Venezuela, are a regal delight stuffed with a decadent mixture of shredded chicken, creamy avocado, and a touch of mayonnaise. The dish, named “Curvy Queen” in English, is a tribute to the legendary beauty Susana Duijm, Miss World 1955, known as “La Reina” (The Queen) in Venezuela.

CountryVenezuela
DifficultyEasy
TypeMain Course
Cooking Time15 minutes
Preparation Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Serving Size4 arepas

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
  • 2 ripe avocados, mashed
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • Vegetable oil for cooking

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Arepa Dough:
    • In a bowl, combine masarepa, warm water, and salt. Knead until you have a soft, pliable dough.
  2. Shape and Cook Arepas:
    • Divide the dough into 4 portions. Shape each into a disk and cook on a hot griddle until golden.
  3. Prepare Filling:
    • Mix shredded chicken, mashed avocado, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Optionally, add grated mozzarella.
  4. Assemble Arepas:
    • Slice each arepa to create a pocket. Stuff with the filling mixture.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve warm and enjoy the royal flavors of Reina Pepiada arepas!

Nutritional Information: (per serving)

Calories350 kcal
Fat18g
Protein12g
Carbohydrates40g
Sugar1g
Fiber6g

Optional Additions or Substitutions:

  • Experiment with different cheeses or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Tips or Variations:

  • Ensure the arepas are well-cooked to achieve the perfect texture.
  • You can add sliced avocados inside the arepa together with the filling mixture
  • Cooked onion can be also added to the filling mixture

Other Countries Where They Also Make This Recipe:

  • Popular across South America, especially in Colombia.

Allergen Checklist:

  • Gluten-free, nut-free.
  • It is easily adaptable for vegetarians; skip the chicken or substitute with plant-based alternatives.

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