Arepas

Directions

1. 1
   Combind the arepa flour, salt, and cheese in a large mixing bowl.
2. 2
   Stir in 2 tablespoons melted butter and most of the water.
3. 3
   Knead the mixture with your hands to obtain a mosit, pliable dough.
4. 4
   Add more water as necessary: The dough should be the consistency of mashed potatoes.
5. 5
   You may not need all of the water, or you may need a little more.
6. 6
   Divide the dough into 8 equal parts.
7. 7
   Wet your hands and roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it to make a patty about 3 inches across and 1/3 inch thick.
8. 8
   Continue wetting your hands to prevent the dough from sticking.
9. 9
   Alternatively, roll out the dough between two sheets of plastic wrap or waxed paper and cut out 3-inch circles, using a cookie cutter.
10. 10
    Heat some of the remaining melted butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
11. 11
    Fry the arepas until crusty and golden brown, turning once, about 2 minutes per side.
12. 12
    Working in batches, as necessary, to avoid crowding the pan.
13. 13
    Add more butter or oil if needed.
14. 14
    Serve at once.