Arepitas Dulces (Sweet Arepas)

Arepitas Dulces

Ingredients

1 cup of very warm water 1/2 - 1 tbsp sugar 1/4 tsp salt 1/2 tsp whole anise seeds 1 cup white cornmeal*

Oil for frying

*I use P.A.N. Pre-Cooked White Corn Meal

Note: The Arepas can also be cooked on a hot griddle, a slight char on each side is expected

Directions To the cup of warm water add the sugar, salt and anise seeds

You could add the anise seeds to the dry mix and steep the water with 2 to 3 pods of star anise (similar but stronger in taste)

Stir to dissolve the sugar, cover and allow to steep for about 10 minutes

Add the warm water mix to the cornmeal and knead to form a smooth ball, with no cracks (add more water if needed)

Cover the dough and leave to rest for another 10 minutes (keep the dough moist)

Prepare your pot and heat up your oil for deep frying

Separate dough into 6 or 8 pieces and while you work with one piece keep the rest covered to prevent it from drying out

Roll each piece into a ball, then press with your palms to flatten into a disc about 2 1/2" diameter and 1/4" thick

When the oil is hot, fry the arepas (not all at once) until lightly golden on each side. The aprepas will puff up and float to the surface of the oil

Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with your side of choice

You can always adjust the salt, sugar & anise to your liking