How to Cook a Frozen Arepa

A prominent dish in the Latin American countries of Colombia and Venezuela, arepas are corn pancake sandwiches, typically filled with cheese and sandwiched between cornmeal patties made from ground maize. Arepas freeze well and can be easily reheated for a quick and tasty meal. Whether you purchased premade frozen arepas or froze leftovers after making a large batch yourself, simply reheat arepas in the oven, on the stove top or on a gas or charcoal grill.

For an oven-baked arepa, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place a frozen arepa on a baking tray and bake it for approximately 15 minutes, or until the outside of the arepa is golden brown and crispy and the cheese has melted. For a grilled or pan-fried preparation, bring a grill or skillet to medium heat. Add the arepa to the grill or skillet and cook it for 5 to 8 minutes, or until one side is done to your liking. Carefully position the arepa over the grill grates so it doesn't fall through, or place the arepa on a grill pan before putting it on the grill. Flip the arepa and continue cooking it for another 5 to 8 minutes, until the arepa is golden brown and crispy on both sides and the cheese has melted.