Crispy on the outside, steamy and tender on the inside — gluten free arepas are pure magic, made with just corn flour, water, and salt. Split ’em, stuff ’em, or enjoy hot off the pan with butter.
3 Ingredient Gluten Free Arepas (Crispy Outside, Fluffy Inside)
Makes: 6
Ingredients:
- 2 cups corn flour (precooked white or yellow corn flour, e.g. PAN)
- 2 ½ cups warm water
- 1 tsp salt
- Optional: 1 tbsp oil or butter (for extra softness)
Equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Non-stick skillet or griddle
- Spatula
Method:
- In a large bowl, stir the salt into the warm water. Gradually add the corn flour, mixing with your hands until a smooth dough forms. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Knead briefly until pliable and smooth — the dough should hold its shape without cracking.
- Divide the dough into 6–8 balls. Flatten each into a thick disc about 1–1.5 cm thick.
- Heat a dry non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook arepas for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and a little crisp.
- Optional: Once both sides are golden, pop them into a 180°C (350°F) oven for 10 more minutes to finish cooking through and get that perfect crust.
- Let them cool slightly, then slice open and fill with your favourite toppings — cheese, avocado, beans, meats, or even a fried egg.
Tips & Tricks:
- If the dough cracks while shaping, wet your hands and smooth the edges.
- Gluten free arepas are best eaten warm, but you can also slice and toast them the next day for extra crunch.
- Pair the gluten free arepas with a Pico de Gallo – try this recipe by Luke Hines here.
Juan de la Cruz | MasterChef Contestant 2024 Gluten Free Recipe Creator
Juan dove into the challenge of gluten free cooking to support his partner after her diagnosis—learning all the intricacies of label reading, ingredient alternatives, cross-contamination protocols, and tricks for spotting hidden gluten!
He now cooks everything gluten free, and has mastered breads, pastas, and even empanadas! Juan shares his creations with the world through his digital platforms, showing there's no need to miss out—you can enjoy delicious food without the gluten.
Follow Juan on Instagram and TikTok for more recipes! @delacruzcooks
