Ingredients:
2½ cups lukewarm water (100°F-110°F)
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups pre-cooked yellow cornmeal (285g)
¼ cup canola oil (60 mL)

Filling suggestions:
Shredded cheese
Black beans

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet.
In a large bowl, combine the water and salt. Gradually stir the cornmeal into the water until a soft and moist dough forms. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
Divide the dough evenly into 8 pieces and roll each piece into balls. Press each ball into a 1/2-inch patty between your palms.

In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the oil over medium heat until hot. Working in batches, place the patties in the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 4 minutes on each side, occasionally moving the patties around in the skillet so they don’t stick. Transfer the patties to the wire rack.

Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool completely or until warm.
With a serrated knife, carefully cut in half horizontally. Fill with shredded cheese, black beans, or however desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade arepas!