A Complete Arepa Buffet

A unique menu highlighting the classic flavors of the Arepa and it's classic fillings

An arepa is a slightly sweet corn flatbread popular in Central America that is traditionally filled with a savory and saucy filling. Think of an arepa as a cross between a traditional corn tamale and a Latin- inspired sandwich. Best of all, arepas are easy to make and come together in under 30 minutes. In this menu, I have provided 3 scrumptious fillings. You can choose one or all three! I highly recommend you do make both the suggested sauces and sides – you will be glad that you did. If there are any left overs they make excellent casseroles with just a couple more ingredients.

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Base Areppa

With a little masa arepa (pre-cooked cornmeal,) salt, and water, you can fry up a batch of arepas that will stand up the heartiest of fillings. They fry up in minutes and are ready to slice and fill with whatever your mind and palate can imagine.

RecipeSavants - Arepa Ground Beef Filling

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Arepa Ground Beef Filling

When you make a batch of arepas, try this classic Venezuelan beef filling. The ground chuck is infused with a savory spice blend and topped with zesty homemade pickled onions, radishes and avocado slices. You could also use the spiced beef for South American-style tacos.

RecipeSavants - Venezuelan-Style Pulled Pork

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Venezuelan-Style Pulled Pork

Bring the mesmerizing flavors of Venezuelan cuisine with this spicy pork filling. It features succulent chunks of pork infused with aromatic spices and savory chipotle pepper.

RecipeSavants - Savory Vegetable Arepa Filling

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Savory Vegetable Arepa Filling

Not all arepas or Latin American foods have to be filled with meat. Vegetarians will delight in this mouthwatering veggie filling of creamy avocados and nutty-sweet plantains. It is easy to make and pairs with many savory dishes. The hearty texture and flavorful spices will satisfy your palate without meat.

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South American Green Sauce

If you are searching for a bold salad dressing or dipping sauce for Latin-inspired dishes, how about trying this creamy delight! Whip up fresh cilantro, parsley, garlic, mayo and aromatic spices into a verdant sauce that will be the talk of the table. The Aleppo pepper gives it just the right hint of heat.

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South American Red Sauce

Give your Latin-inspired dishes a little sweet heat with this tasty Venezuelan red sauce. In addition to fresh tomatoes, sweet red bell peppers, onions, and zesty spices, this sauce has creamy chunks of avocado. Add a splash of red hot pepper sauce to crank up the heat.

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Fried Plantains

Although they are related to bananas, plantains are more like potatoes. They are often fried or baked in tropical cuisines, like this scrumptious recipe for tajadas. The savory-sweet plantain strips fry up golden brown with a crunchy outside and tender inside. Enjoy them with Latin-inspired dishes.

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Spicy Black Beans

Instead of your usual baked bean recipe, consider this delicious Venezuelan classic. Imagine tender black beans that have been slow cooked with bacon, onions, garlic, bell peppers and a robust blend of herbs and spices! A touch of molasses gives it a kiss of sweetness that you will savor in every bite!

RecipeSavants - Toasted Coconut Cream Cake

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Toasted Coconut Cream Cake

The base of this supremely moist cake is a store-bought cake mix. Liven it up with creamy coconut filling and a subtle rum syrup. Top your cake with mounds of decadent meringue and more shredded coconut. It takes a little more time, but it is worth the wait!

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Coconut Smoothie

Transport your family to the sun-kissed tropics and serve this refreshing Venezuelan-style smoothie. It is a tempting blend of milk, coconut cream, condensed milk & sweet cinnamon. The shredded coconut gives it a delightful texture that will please your palate on a balmy summer day. Add a splash of rum to make it an adult drink.