The Brazilian arepa is much more than a simple fusion of flavoursIt is a meeting of cultures and a way of bringing our beloved Venezuelan arepa to a new level.
Who doesn't miss a good arepa when you're away from home? That unmistakable crunchiness of the toasted dough, the aroma that transports us to our homes and, of course, the freedom to fill it with whatever we like.
For the Venezuelans, the arepa is much more than a typical dish, it's a symbol of identity and a connection with our roots.
Now, imagine a arepa that takes the best of our tradition and adds to it a Brazilian touch. That is the Brazilian arepaa mixture that conquers palates and unites us with our neighbours from Brazil.
Do you want to try this culinary fusion? In this article, we'll tell you how you can make this delicious recipe at home. a journey full of flavour and tradition!
The influence of Brazilian gastronomy: flavours and culture
The Brazilian cuisine is as colourful and diverse as the country itself. Each region has its own ingredients and flavours that bring an incredible richness to each dish.
And all of this is reflected in this version of the arepawhere some very typical ingredients from Brazilas the coconut milk, ginger and peanutswhich together create a exotic and unique taste.
These ingredients are part of many traditional Brazilian dishes, such as the famous vatapaa creamy mixture of shrimp and coconut milk, that inspires the filling of our Brazilian arepa.
And the fact is that although Venezuela and Brazil have their own traditions, food is something that really connects us.
We both love flavour, and for us, a dish is always an excuse to get together and share. That's why the Brazilian arepa is not only a combination of ingredients, but also a form of bringing our cultures together.
What makes this recipe special?
The Brazilian arepa is unique and special because it manages to combine the softness of our beloved traditional arepa with a tropical and exotic filling that surprises.
When you take your first bite, you find that familiar taste of the corn dough but then the filler brings something unexpected: a mixture of fresh shrimps, coconut milk and nuts.
This combination creates a perfect contrast to the corn dough, making every bite a unique experience. experience full of flavour.
Unlike our classic fillings such as the sweet arepa or the arepa tumbarranchoThis version is inspired by the flavours of the Brazilian coast.
Here the coconut milk is the protagonist, providing a creamy texture and a touch of sweetness that enhances the shrimp flavour.
In addition, the ginger gives it a point of freshness, while the peanuts and chestnuts add a crunchy texture. It is a mixture that balances fresh, creamy and crunchyall in one bite.
What makes this fusion work so well, however, is precisely the union of two worlds. This mixture of Venezuelan and Brazilian flavours reminds us that we can adapt to new lands without losing our roots, and that sometimes that mixture results in something as special and unique as this arepa.
This is definitely a recipe to try!
How to make this delicious arepa at home
Make a Brazilian arepa at home is easier than it looks and we assure you that the result is worth it. With basic ingredients and a few simple stepsyou will be able to enjoy this fusion of Venezuelan and Brazilian flavours that will conquer your palate.
Here is the recipe for Ricardo Estrada (@aerepologo), a great enthusiast of the arepas and expert in the field, ideal for share with family or friendsOr to treat yourself!
What are the necessary ingredients?
For the arepas:
- 1 1/4 cups of water: is key to hydrating the corn flour and giving the dough the soft, pliable texture we need.
- 1 cup pre-cooked maize flour: is the base of the arepa and what gives it its characteristic flavour and texture. Be sure to use pre-cooked maize flourIt makes it easy to prepare and is perfect for forming the arepas.
- A pinch of salt.
For the vatapa filling:
- 250 gr. of shrimps: Fresh shrimps are ideal, but if you can't find them, frozen shrimps can also be used.
- ½ cup coconut milk: If you don't like the pronounced taste of coconut milk, you can mix it with a little heavy cream or regular milk. You can also use low-fat coconut milk if you prefer a lighter version.
- Ginger (to taste): If you're not a fan of ginger, you can reduce the amount or even omit it, but I recommend you try it, as the flavour really makes a difference.
- 50 gr. of chestnuts: be sure to chop them finely so that they don't get lost in the stuffing.
- 1 onion: the onion can be used raw or lightly browned, depending on your taste preference
- Fresh coriander: gives an aromatic and fresh touch that enhances all the tropical flavours of the blend.
- 1 tomato: It adds freshness and a touch of acidity that balances the creaminess of the filling.
- 1 paprika: if you like more intense flavours, red paprika is ideal.
- 50 gr. of peanuts: is a classic in vatapa and provides a crunchy texture.
- Pinch of pepper and salt: remember that it is always best to taste and adjust seasonings to taste.
And now, let's get cooking!
- Prepare the arepa dough: In a bowl, mix the water with the cornflour and a pinch of salt. Knead until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. Divide the dough into three parts, shape them into balls and flatten them until they are the thickness of one traditional arepaabout 10 cm in diameter. Cook the arepas in a frying pan or budare over medium heat, browning them well on both sides.
- Prepare the stuffingBlend the paprika, onion, coriander, ginger, ginger, peanuts and chestnuts in a blender. Then season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Next, in a saucepan over medium heat, place ½ sieved tablespoon of cornstarch (the original recipe is with bread). Add the shrimp and coconut milk. Stir constantly for about 15 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. To finish, add some fresh coriander for a touch of freshness.
- Assemble the Brazilian arepa: Now that you have the arepas and filling ready, all that's left to do is assemble this tropical treat. Open each arepa in half and fill it with a generous amount of filling. Serve hot to enjoy the combination of textures and flavours to the fullest.
Tips for varying the filling
If you can't find any of the ingredients, don't worry. You can substitute the peanuts or chestnuts for any nuts you have, such as almonds or walnutsto preserve the crispness.
And if you prefer, you can also use chicken instead of shrimp, although the seafood gives it that Brazilian special touch.
Dare to try this culinary fusion and share your experience!
Would you like to prepare your own Brazilian arepa at home? If you decide to give it a try, at Curiara We'd love to hear how you got on. Share your photos and let us know how they turned out or if you decided to add your own special touch to the recipe. Whether you prepared it as is or went for a variation, the important thing is that you have fun in the process.
You can comment on your experience or upload your photos with the hashtags #arepabrazil #gastronomiavenezolana #somosvenezolanos #venezolanosporel mundo #soyvenezolano #venezolanoseneuropa #venezolanosenestandidos, so that more people will be inspired to try out this such a delicious fusion of Venezuelan and Brazilian flavours.
Also, if you liked this recipe, you can't miss the one of Spanish arepa and all the others that we will be publishing in the coming weeks.
We are full of tasty ideas for you, because we know that, even if we are far from home, Venezuela is always in our hearts and, of course, in every bite we prepare.
Our country never leaves us, and with every arepa, we continue to take a little piece of our land with us wherever we go!
Curiara, uniting families.
