When you think of an Arepa, what comes to mind? Well, it actually depends on if they are Colombian style arepas or Venezuelan style arepas. If they are Colombian style arepas, they could be filled with cheese and had with hot chocolate – or if they are Venezuelan, they could be stuffed with shredded beef, plantains and black beans. But for the most part, they have not changed in a while. Here are some non-traditional ways you can enjoy an arepa.

Arepa Waffles

Arepa Waffles on Plate

Arepas Waffles – ©ArepasDelGringo

Arepa Waffles are one of my personal favorites. All you need is a standard waffle iron and you can create these new innovative arepas. It’s not just the shape that has changed, but the fact that the arepa now has square impressions gives it more surface area for delicious crunch cheese and edges. There is something magical about it but it kicks it up quite a few notches in my book. The Arepa Waffle can be had for breakfast lunch or dinner and you can even be creative and add other things on top of it. Don’t forget the arepa waffle is Gluten-free, vegetarian and if made without cheese or butter it can be 100% vegan. Learn more about Arepa Waffles here.

Hawaiian Arepa

Arepas with ham cheese and pineapple

Hawaiian Style Arepas – ©ArepasDelGringo

Another simple yet creative way to have arepas is by having it be friends with the Hawaiian Pizza! The sweet pineapple and the hot ham quickly sautéed in a hot skillet fits perfectly into this hot corn pocket. These Hawaiian Arepas are a great hit with the kiddos as well. They can get their servings of fruit, meat and vegetables in every bite. Don’t forget these Arepas are also Gluten-free!

Venezuelan Guasacaca Sauce for Arepas

Venezuelan Guasacaca in Mason Jar

Venezuelan Guasacaca Sauce Recipe – ©ArepasDelGringo

Venezuelan Guasacaca sauce, or Avocado Sauce is not an innovation but is for sure something I can not leave out here. This sauce goes perfect with the Arepa Sticks and Waffles. Not only on those styles, but I put that sauce on basically any arepa with meat as well. Carnitas, pulled pork, fajita steak and more. This sauce needs to be tried – it packs such a fresh punch of flavor with the garlic, jalapeño and fresh cilantro and parsley.

  • Arepa Sticks With Guasacaca
  • Arepa Pizza
  • Arepa Spinach
  • Arepa Beet
  • Arepa Carrot