Arepas are one of the most versatile and delicious foods around. You can find them in nearly every Latin American country and throughout the United States.
From corn-based to flour-based and even cheese-filled forms, these round cakes of joy offer plenty of possibilities for variety in your cooking.
But if you’re unsure what to serve with arepas, don’t worry – we’ve got your back!
This blog post will explore tasty combinations that will take your meal from good to great!
Be sure to try out some of our ideas – either on their own or mixed – and savor the unique flavors each dish provides.
What Are Arepas?
Arepas are traditional food originating in Colombia and Venezuela but they are popular throughout Latin America.
It is a flatbread made with cornmeal or precooked corn flour and is usually filled with cheese, meat, vegetables or other ingredients.
Arepas can be eaten as an entree, side dish, or snack. They can be served hot or cold and are often accompanied by various sauces.
Arepas are also a popular street food in many Latin American countries.
Arepas come in different shapes and sizes, but the traditional version is round or oval-shaped and about three to four inches wide.
They can be grilled, fried or boiled, depending on preference. Arepas are a great source of carbohydrates and energy and are very versatile in flavors.
They’re also relatively lower in calories and fat than other breads or snacks.
What To Serve With Arepas?
Arepas are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some ideas for you on what to serve with arepas.
Bandeja Paisa
Bandeja Paisa is a traditional Colombian dish that originated around Medellin. It is typically served with arepas, a type of thick cornmeal bread.
Bandeja Paisa is a hearty dish that typically includes white rice, beans, ground beef (or chorizo), plantain, avocado, chicharron (fried pork belly) and an arepa or two.
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It is considered the national dish of Colombia and is often served on special occasions and holidays.
Serving arepas with Bandeja Paisa is not only traditional but practical as well.
Arepas can be eaten alone, but they also serve as a great accompaniment to the other protein-heavy dishes that make up the dish, such as ground beef or chorizo.
The starchiness of the arepas also helps balance the richness of the other ingredients, making Bandeja Paisa a truly well-rounded dish.
Tamales
Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish made with corn, steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf and filled with various fillings such as pork, chicken, beef, cheese, vegetables or fruit.
Tamales have been consumed in Latin America since pre-Columbian times and remain an integral part of today’s culture. Tamales are often served with arepas.
The combination of the tamale and arepa creates a flavorful meal that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish or main course.
This traditional Latin American pairing has become increasingly popular in the US, which has given rise to a new style of Latin fusion cuisine.
Tamales and arepas provide a delicious, nutritious, filling meal that can be enjoyed anytime.
Combining different fillings, sauces, and spices can create unique flavor combinations that will tantalize your taste buds!
Roasted Cauliflower
Roasted cauliflower is a delicious and healthy side dish that can be served with arepas.
It’s made by chopping cauliflower into small florets, then coating them in olive oil and seasoning before baking in the oven.
The result is a slightly crunchy and flavorful vegetable that pairs perfectly with arepas.
Roasted cauliflower is a great source of fiber and vitamin C, making it an excellent addition to your meal.
Furthermore, the combination of cauliflower with arepas adds an exciting mix of textures and flavors that will tantalize any palate.
So if you’re looking for a delicious side dish that packs a nutritional punch, roasted cauliflower served with arepas is a great choice.
Chuyaco
Chuyaco is a traditional Colombian dish with fried plantains, eggs, tomatoes and onions. It’s usually served with arepas.
The combination of the savory plantain dish and the subtly sweet arepa is a perfect match that reflects the diversity and flavors of Colombia.
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It’s a popular breakfast dish that will satisfy the whole family.
The combination of flavor, texture, and nutrition makes it a great way to start your day!
Additionally, Chuyaco can be made with different ingredients, such as cheese or chorizo, for added flavor.
This dish is delicious, easy to make, and affordable. So if you’re looking for a flavorful, hearty breakfast option, try making Chuyaco with arepas!
Shrimp Ceviche
Shrimp Ceviche is a popular dish that originated in Latin American countries such as Peru and Ecuador.
It consists of diced or chopped raw shrimp marinated in lime juice, onions, tomatoes, chili peppers, cilantro, and other seasonings to create a light and refreshing seafood dish.
The acidity of the lime juice “cooks” the shrimp and infuses it with a bright, citrusy flavor.
The texture of the crunchy exterior of arepas complements the juicy marinated seafood in the ceviche perfectly, making them the ideal accompaniment to this dish.
Arepas are also a great way to scoop up all the delicious ceviche flavors and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a light meal.
Carnitas
Carnitas is a traditional Mexican dish of braised or slow-cooked pork, usually served with arepas.
The meat for carnitas is typically cooked slowly in lard until it’s tender and moist, then shredded or chopped into small pieces.
It can be seasoned with herbs like cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and chili powder.
Arepas are often stuffed with carnitas, making for a delicious combination of flavors.
The corn meal in the arepa brings out the flavor of the pork and adds texture to the dish.
Carnitas and arepas also make for a great meal because they’re both simple to prepare and can be served hot or cold.
So, the next time you’re looking for something different to serve your guests, try carnitas with arepas! They won’t be disappointed.
Guasacaca Sauce
Guasacaca sauce, also known as Venezuelan guacamole, is a traditional condiment popular in Venezuela and other Latin American countries.
It is made with diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, peppers, cilantro, parsley and lime juice blended into a thick paste-like consistency.
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This flavorful green sauce is served with arepas, a popular Venezuelan dish made with cornmeal dough and shaped into thick discs.
Guasacaca sauce provides the perfect flavor and texture combination to the arepas’ crunchy exterior, making it a popular choice for topping this traditional food item.
The ingredients used in Guasacaca sauce can vary depending on region or preference. Still, the traditional version is a spicy and tangy blend of flavors, making it a welcome addition to any arepa.
Guasacaca sauce is sometimes served as a dip for snacks like chips or crudités.
Enyucado
Enyucado is a traditional Venezuelan dish consisting of boiled and mashed yuca root (also known as cassava or manioc) combined with garlic, onion, cumin, pepper, and coriander.
Combining these ingredients creates a savory side dish that can be served alongside many different meals.
When enyucado is served with arepas, it makes for a delicious combination that can be enjoyed as a snack or light meal.
The creamy texture of the enyucado pairs perfectly with the chewy texture of the area, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Additionally, arepas provide a great canvas for different toppings or fillings to make the dish even more flavorful and satisfying.
Enyucado is sure to be a hit with everyone at your next gathering!
FAQs
Are Arepas Considered A Main Dish?
Yes, arepas can be considered a main dish.
They can be served with various ingredients like cheese, meats, and vegetables, and they often replace traditional bread as an accompaniment to a meal.
What Sauces To Serve With Arepas?
Arepas are a versatile dish that can be served with many different sauces.
Popular sauces to serve with arepas include cilantro sauce, garlic sauce, sour cream, guacamole, and chimichurri.
These sauces can be dipped or spread over the top of the arepa for added flavor.
What Meat To Serve With Arepas?
Arepas goes great with meats, including grilled chicken, steak, pork chops, and chorizo.
You can also top your arepas with shredded or ground beef for a heartier meal.
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, beans also make an excellent choice.
What Vegetables To Serve With Arepas?
Arepas go great with a variety of vegetables. Try serving them with fried plantains, sautéed onions and peppers, or roasted sweet potatoes.
You can also use vegetables to stuff your arepas, like mushrooms, zucchini, or shredded carrots.
Conclusion
As you can see, you have many options regarding what to serve with arepas.
From savory pork carnitas to refreshing shrimp ceviche and traditional enyucado, there is something for everyone.
Whether serving them as an appetizer or the main dish for your next gathering, arepas are the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
You can top them with guasacaca sauce or whatever other ingredient.
With so many options, you can find something that fits the meal or occasion. So go ahead and get creative! Your guests will be glad you did.
