Homemade Arepas

1 . Stage

Stir water and salt together in a medium bowl; gradually stir in cornmeal with your fingers until the mixture forms a soft, moist, malleable dough. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

2 . Stage

Form dough into eight 2-inch diameter balls; pat each ball to flatten into a 3/8-inch-thick arepa patty. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

3 . Stage

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat; fry arepas in batches until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer cooked arepas to a paper towel-lined plate to drain until cool enough to handle. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

4 . Stage

Slice halfway through each arepa horizontally with a thin serrated knife to form a pita-like pocket. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

5 . Stage

Enjoy! DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS