Can I use another type of cheese?

Yes, try mozzarella or feta for a different flavor profile.

How should I store leftover arepas?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can this dish be made vegan?

Absolutely, swap the butter for a vegan substitute and use a plant-based cheese.

How do I reheat the arepas?

Heat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

What if my arepa dough is too sticky?

Gradually add more cornmeal until the desired consistency is achieved.

Venezuelan Black Sesame Arepa with Sweet Plantain and Queso Fresco

Name: Venezuelan Black Sesame Arepa with Sweet Plantain and Queso Fresco
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Precooked cornmeal; Black sesame seeds; Warm water; Salt; Vegetable oil; Ripe plantains, peeled and sliced; Unsalted butter; Brown sugar; Queso fresco, crumbled; Vegetable oil

Moist arepas filled with caramelized plantains and fresh cheese

Delight in this Venezuelan-inspired dish that combines the nutty flavor of black sesame with the sweetness of ripe plantains and the creaminess of queso fresco.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Arepas

Precooked cornmeal

2 cups

Black sesame seeds

1 tablespoon

Warm water

1 ½ cups

Salt

1 teaspoon

Vegetable oil

2 tablespoons

For the Filling

Ripe plantains, peeled and sliced

Unsalted butter

1 tablespoon

Brown sugar

1 tablespoon

Queso fresco, crumbled

1 cup

For Cooking

Vegetable oil

2 tablespoons

Preparation

Preparing the Arepa Dough

Combine dry ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cornmeal, black sesame seeds, and salt.

Add water

Gradually add the warm water, mixing until a dough forms.

Rest and shape

Let it rest for 10 minutes, then knead and shape into 4-inch discs.

Ensure the arepa dough isn’t too wet; adjust with cornmeal if needed. Freeze leftover arepas for a quick meal later on.

Cooking the Plantains

Melt butter

Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.

Caramelize plantains

Add plantain slices and brown sugar; cook until caramelized.

Cool

Set aside to cool slightly.

Cooking Process

Cook Arepas

Heat oil in a skillet, cook each arepa until golden on each side, about 5 minutes per side.

Use medium heat for arepa cooking.

Cook Plantains

Cook plantains until they are a deep golden color to ensure sweetness.

Use medium-high heat for plantain caramelization.

Prepare Queso Fresco

Crumble fresh cheese as the arepas cook so it’s ready for quick assembly.

Plating & Serving