Do you struggle to find meals that satisfy everyone’s tastes while still being quick and versatile? The problem gets worse when you want something hearty yet adaptable to various flavor preferences. Arepas, a dish originating from Venezuela and Colombia made from precooked cornmeal (harina de maíz precocida), might just be your solution. These corn cakes can be filled with endless ingredients, from traditional flavors to modern twists, making them perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into some of the best arepa fillings to inspire your next meal!
1. Traditional Venezuelan Arepa Fillings
De Pabellón
One of the most iconic arepa fillings, De Pabellón, combines the traditional flavors of Venezuelan cuisine. This filling includes:
- Shredded beef (carne mechada)
- Black beans
- Fried plantains
Optional additions: avocado slices, grated white cheese, or a fried egg (though not all of these fit comfortably inside an arepa).
La Dominó
This filling is named after the black-and-white appearance of domino tiles. It features:
- Black beans
- Grated white cheese
La Pelúa (The Hairy One)
Don’t worry—there’s no hair involved! This arepa is filled with:
- Shredded beef
- Gouda cheese
La Catira (The Blond One)
A simple yet flavorful option made with:
- Shredded chicken
- Gouda cheese
La Sifrina (The Snobby One)
An elevated version of the Reina Pepiada (see below), featuring:
- Shredded chicken and avocado
- Gouda cheese
La Rumbera (The Party One)
Perfect for late-night cravings, this arepa contains:
- Roast pork (pernil)
- Gouda cheese
La Musiua (The “Monsieur” One)
This filling transforms an arepa into a burger alternative:
- Burger patty
- Tomatoes
- Onions
- Lettuce
La Bomba (The Bomb)
An explosion of flavors, this arepa is stuffed with:
- Scrambled eggs (perico)
- Black beans
La Pata-Pata
A creamy and flavorful combination of:
- Black beans
- Gouda cheese
- Avocado
2. Other Popular Arepa Fillings
De Reina Pepiada (The Curvy Queen)
This filling is named after a Venezuelan beauty queen. It includes:
- Shredded chicken
- Avocado-based salad with mayonnaise
De Guasacaca
A simple and fresh option:
- Venezuelan avocado sauce (guasacaca)
- Grated white cheese
De Pernil
This filling highlights the rich flavor of:
- Roast pork (pernil)
De Chorizo
Perfect for meat lovers, featuring:
- Spanish sausage (chorizo)
De Cazón
A coastal favorite:
- Small shark meat (cazón)
De Carne Molida
For a hearty and satisfying meal:
- Ground beef
De Jamón y Queso
A classic combination of:
- Ham
- Cheese
De Pollo
Simple yet delicious:
- Shredded chicken
3. Vegetarian and Vegan Arepa Fillings
La Viuda (The Widow)
An unfilled arepa, often served as a side dish.
Black Beans and Avocado
A creamy and nutritious combination:
- Cooked black beans
- Sliced avocado
Scrambled Tofu and Vegetables
For a plant-based option:
- Tofu scrambled with spices and vegetables like bell peppers and onions
Grilled Vegetables and Hummus
A Mediterranean twist:
- Grilled zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers
- Hummus
4. Breakfast Arepa Fillings
Scrambled Eggs and Cheese
Start your day right with:
- Scrambled eggs
- Melty cheese (e.g., Monterey Jack or cheddar)
Butter and Jam
A simple and sweet option:
- Slather butter and your favorite jam onto a warm arepa.
Avocado and Fried Egg
For a protein-packed breakfast:
- Sliced avocado
- Fried egg
5. Creative Arepa Filling Ideas
BBQ Pulled Pork and Coleslaw
A fusion of flavors:
- Creamy coleslaw
Caprese-Inspired Arepa
A fresh and cheesy option:
- Sliced tomatoes
- Fresh mozzarella
- Basil leaves
Spicy Bean Salsa
For a kick of heat:
- Black beans
- Serrano or jalapeño peppers
- Lime juice
Fillings to Avoid (According to Venezuelan Tradition)
Avoid these unconventional fillings when serving arepas to Venezuelans:
- Peanut butter
- Jelly
- Ketchup
- BBQ sauce
Arepas are endlessly customizable, making them a fantastic meal for any time of the day. Whether you prefer traditional fillings or experimental combinations, there’s an arepa for everyone. What’s your favorite arepa filling? Let us know in the comments!