Dominican Republic 365
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Dominican Republic 365
Sweet cornmeal comfort from grandma's oven
Arepa Dominicana is a sweet, dense cornmeal cake that is entirely different from the savory arepas of Venezuela and Colombia. The Dominican version is a baked (or sometimes fried) cake made from fine cornmeal, coconut milk, sugar, cinnamon, and butter. The result is a moist, sweet bread with a golden exterior and a dense, satisfying interior that carries the warm flavors of coconut and spice.
Dominican arepas are traditionally baked in a round pan and cut into wedges, served warm for breakfast or as an afternoon snack with coffee. Some recipes add grated coconut, raisins, or anise for additional flavor. The arepa dominicana is a reminder that corn-based breads have been part of Caribbean cuisine since the time of the Taino, who cultivated maize across Hispaniola.
While less well-known internationally than its South American namesakes, the Dominican arepa has a devoted following among Dominicans who grew up eating it warm from their grandmother's oven. It is a comfort food that evokes childhood and tradition.
Preheat the oven to 175C and grease a deep baking pan generously with butter, including the sides.
In a large heavy pot, whisk the cornmeal into the coconut milk and evaporated milk until no lumps remain, then stir in the sugar, a pinch of salt, and the cinnamon.
Set the pot over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the mixture thickens into a stiff porridge that pulls from the sides of the pot, about 12 to 15 minutes.
Remove from the heat and stir in the melted butter, grated coconut, and raisins until evenly combined.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, working quickly so they blend in without scrambling, until the batter is smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the top is deep golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool the arepa completely in the pan on a rack, at least 1 hour, so it firms up and slices cleanly once fully cooled.
Serve at room temperature in squares or wedges, on its own or with coffee.
A home-style reference method; every family and kitchen has its own version.
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