Arepas

Arepas are a staple in Colombian cuisine and a must-try street food. These cornmeal patties are grilled or fried to perfection and can be filled with a variety of delicious fillings such as cheese, meat, avocado, or even eggs.

The history and origin of Arepas can be traced back to pre-Columbian times in South America. They were originally made by grinding maize at home to create a dough-like consistency. However, in the 1950s, a Venezuelan engineer named Luis Caballero Mejías invented precooked arepa flour, which quickly gained popularity.

Arepas are not only popular in Colombia but also in Venezuela, Bolivia, Ecuador, Nicaragua, and Panama. Each country has its own variation of arepas, with different sizes, maize types, and added ingredients. In Colombia, for example, arepas are typically made with white cornmeal and are served with a variety of fillings. In Venezuela, on the other hand, yellow cornmeal is used, and arepas are often fried in oil.

Today, Arepas have become a beloved food not only in Latin America but also around the world. They can be found in many restaurants and are often served at parties and social events. The versatility of arepas allows for creative fillings and flavor combinations, leading to the development of innovative dishes such as arepas stuffed with pulled pork or topped with avocado and salsa.