How to Make Yuca Arepas with Cheese – A Delicious Gluten-Free Recipe

Introduction

Have you ever imagined how versatile yuca can be? It has gone from being an almost unknown root to becoming a staple in my kitchen. In this article, I’ll show you how to prepare delicious yuca arepas with cheese, a recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home.

Motivated by its numerous health benefits, I shared in a previous article why you should consume yuca. However, the most essential reason for me is that it tastes absolutely amazing.

Yuca: A Versatile Ingredient

Yuca can be transformed into many different culinary delights. From making your own yuca starch, which is a versatile ingredient in gluten-free cooking, to creating a dough that is perfect for savory tarts, burrito wraps, and even gluten-free crackers, the possibilities are endless.

In fact, the recipe that inspired all these creations is none other than the yuca arepas. In this updated version of the original 2018 recipe, I’ve made them even more delicious than before.

My Yuca Arepas Recipe

Arepas made from yuca are widely consumed in various Latin American countries. Whether you prefer them with or without cheese, they’re always incredibly delicious.

Unlike traditional arepas made with pre-cooked cornmeal, yuca arepas don’t form a pocket inside, making it challenging to fill them. That’s why some recipes include cheese directly in the dough.

However, in my recipe, I prefer to keep the cheese as a filling. By doing so, you get a delightful surprise when you take a bite. You can use your preferred cheese, but I recommend using a semi-hard cheese that melts well. Personally, I like to use a combination of a melting cheese and feta to add extra flavor.

How to Make Yuca Arepas with Cheese

Ingredients:

• 1 yuca root (approximately 500 g)
• 100-150 g of semi-hard cheese
• A pinch of salt

Steps to Follow:

1. Peel the yuca. Cut off both ends and divide it into two or three pieces. Make a longitudinal cut on the skin of each piece with a sharp knife. Using either the knife or your hands, peel off the skin, which should come off easily.
2. Remove any unpleasant parts and cut each piece in half lengthwise.
3. Cook the yuca in plenty of salted water until it becomes tender, which takes about 20 minutes. Remove from heat, drain the water, and let it cool for 15 minutes.
4. Remove the tough central string and grate the yuca using a grater, meat grinder, or potato ricer. Avoid using a blender as the resulting dough is very dense and could burn the motor.
5. Knead the grated yuca with your hands until you have a smooth, non-sticky dough.
6. Divide the dough into eight portions, roll them into small balls, and then press them on an oiled surface to form eight discs about half a centimeter thick.
7. Place cheese on four of the discs and cover them with the other four. Seal the edges well and shape them into attractive arepas.
8. Heat a frying pan or griddle over medium heat with a little oil. Once hot, place the arepas on it and cook for about 5 minutes on each side.
9. When they have a golden crust, remove them from the heat and enjoy them with your favorite accompaniments. ¡Buen provecho!

Now that you know how to make these mouthwatering yuca arepas, it’s time to gather the ingredients and get started. You’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious they are. Enjoy!