Arepas – Venezuelan Street Food You Can Make for Under $5

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If you’re craving a warm, crispy, and versatile comfort food, meet Arepas — Venezuela’s beloved stuffed cornmeal cakes. These golden beauties are easy to make, customizable, and ridiculously budget-friendly at just $5 for a full meal!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 2 cups pre-cooked cornmeal (like PAN or Masarepa)
• 2 1/2 cups warm water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp oil (for frying)

Filling Ideas:

• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1 cup black beans, seasoned
• 1 cup shredded chicken or beef (optional)
• 1/2 cup avocado slices

How to Make Arepas

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, warm water, and salt.
• Stir with your hands until a smooth dough forms. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
• Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces and shape each into a thick patty.

Step 2: Cook the Arepas

• Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Cook the arepas for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

Step 3: Split & Fill

• Once cooked, slice each arepa halfway through like a pita pocket.
• Stuff with cheese, beans, chicken, or your chosen filling.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

✅ Affordable & Filling: Arepas are a cheap yet hearty meal option. ✅ Endlessly Customizable: Fill them with anything from eggs to pulled pork. ✅ Perfect for Any Meal: Enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Budget Breakdown

• Cornmeal: $1.50
• Beans: $0.80
• Cheese: $1.00
• Optional chicken/beef: $1.00
• Avocado (optional): $0.70

Total Cost: ~$5 (Serves 4)

Serving Suggestions

• Pair Arepas with Savory Oatmeal with Eggs & Spinach for a power-packed breakfast.
• Enjoy alongside Mediterranean Chickpea Salad for a balanced dinner combo.
• For more budget meal ideas, explore The $50 Grocery Challenge.

Kitchen Tips for Perfect Arepas

• Don’t overwork the dough. Mixing until just smooth ensures light, fluffy arepas.
• Use a non-stick skillet for even browning and easy flipping.
• Crispy Trick: For extra crunch, finish cooking the arepas in the oven at 400°F for 5 minutes.

Nutritional Perks

Arepas are naturally gluten-free and packed with fiber and healthy carbs. Add beans and avocado for a boost of plant-based protein and healthy fats.

For more wallet-friendly recipe ideas, try 5 Dinners for $10 or Meal Prep 101 to stretch your grocery dollars.

Final Thoughts

Arepas are the ultimate budget meal — crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with delicious fillings. Whether you’re whipping them up for breakfast, dinner, or a weekend snack, these Venezuelan classics are sure to impress.

For more frugal recipes, budgeting hacks, and money-saving tips, visit KateFi.com!