Colombian Arepas With Ham and Cheese

Ingredients

For The Arepas

• 2 cups masa harina
• 1 cup grated white cheese
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt 2 1/2 cups warm water
• 4-6 tablespoons butter, divided

For The Sandwich

• 1/2 lb sliced ham
• 1/2 lb mozzarella cheese, in 6 slices
• 1 large tomato, cut into 6 slices
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 4-6 teaspoons butter, divided
• 1/2 cup salsa

Directions

1. 1

   Making the Arepas:.

2. 2

   I a large bowl combine masa with cheese,baking soda and salt. Slowly pour the warm water in and stir well. Using your hands,knead until smooth dough forms. Form into 6 even balls,flatten into circles, about 4 inches in diameter.In a cast iron skillet or flat top grill, melt half of the butter on medium heat.

3. 3

   Working in batches,if necessary,cook Arepas until golden brown, about 3 minutes.Add remaining butter,turn Arepas and cook 2-3 minutes until golden. Set aside.

4. 4

   Making the Sandwich:.

5. 5

   Slice the arepas in half horizontally. Layer on the ham,cheese and tomato, season with salt and pepper. Top fixings with remaining Arepas halves. Heat half the butterin a skillet or flat top grill. Cook Arepas in batches,about 3 minutes, until golden. Add remaining butter,turn,cover and cook 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and Arepasare golden. Serve with Salsa on the side.