Name: Arepas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 c. precooked cornmeal (such as Harina P.A.N.) -; 2 tsp. kosher salt -; 2 1/2 c. warm water -; 2 tbsp. vegetable oil -; 1 (15.5-oz.) can black beans, drained, rinsed, and warmed -; 1 c. shredded queso blanco or mozzarella -; 1 avocado, thinly sliced -; Cilantro leaves, for serving -

Ingredients for - Arepas

1. 2 c. precooked cornmeal (such as Harina P.A.N.)

2. 2 tsp. kosher salt

3. 2 1/2 c. warm water

4. 2 tbsp. vegetable oil

5. 1 (15.5-oz.) can black beans, drained, rinsed, and warmed

6. 1 c. shredded queso blanco or mozzarella

7. 1 avocado, thinly sliced

8. Cilantro leaves, for serving

How to cook deliciously - Arepas

1 . Stage

In a large bowl, whisk cornmeal and salt to combine. Add water and stir with a wooden spoon until a dough forms. Cover with a kitchen towel and let hydrate 10 minutes.

2 . Stage

Divide dough into 8 equal portions, about 1/2 cup (4 ounces) each. Roll dough into balls, then flatten between your palms to a 3"-wide disc about 1/2" thick.

3 . Stage

In a large cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. When oil begins to smoke, add 4 pieces of dough. Cover skillet and cook until bottoms are nicely charred, 5 to 7 minutes. Flip and continue to cook, uncovered, until second side is charred, 5 to 7 minutes more. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with remaining 1 tablespoon oil and dough.

4 . Stage

Let cool slightly, then create a pocket in each arepa by slicing horizontally about three-quarters of the way through. Fill pockets with beans, cheese, avocado, and cilantro.