Venezuelan Arepas

Ingredients

• 2 cup Pre-cooked white cornmeal (P.A.N.)
• 2½ cup Water
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tbsp Vegetable oil

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 410°F (210°C).
2. In a large bowl, dissolve salt in room temperature water. Gradually add cornmeal, mixing until thoroughly blended and smooth. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes to hydrate.
3. Heat a griddle or cast-iron pan over medium heat and coat with a little oil.
4. Wet your hands and take about 2 tablespoons of dough. Shape it into a small ball, then flatten it into a disc about 3/4 inch thick and 4 inches wide, smoothing the edges.
5. Cook arepas on the preheated griddle for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
6. Transfer browned arepas to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked through and slightly puffed.
7. Serve warm, split open and filled as desired, or as a side dish.