Basic Arepa Dough

Directions

1. 1
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt (if using).
2. 2
   Add the water and mix with a wooden spoon or your hands to make a soft dough.
3. 3
   Cover with plastic wrap, let stand for 5 minutes, and then knead for about 3 minutes, until smooth.
4. 4
   If the dough is too dry, wet your hands and continue kneading and wetting your hands until the dough is soft.
5. 5
   (If the dough is too dry, the arepas will crack around the edges when you shape them into disks.)
6. 6
   The dough is now ready to be shaped into standard arepas or to be mixed and kneaded with other ingredients.