White Corn and Mangalitsa Pork Arepas
- July 7, 2023
Immersing yourself in a country's culture through its cuisine is an incredible adventure. If you've been yearning to explore the wonders of Colombia, we have some thrilling news to share: an exciting new Adventures by Disney trip to Colombia awaits! This journey is the perfect introduction to the country's remarkable gastronomy, warm-hearted locals, vibrant music, and breathtaking natural wonders. As an added bonus, Colombia's rich heritage inspired the captivating world of "Encanto," brought to life by Walt Disney Animation Studios, where we met the charming Mirabel and the extraordinary Madrigal family!
One of the trip's highlights is the chance to master the art of crafting arepas—a beloved traditional Colombian dish—just like Julieta Madrigal, Mirabel's mother, did for her family in the film. The mere thought of it already awakens our taste buds and leaves us craving these delightful corn cakes! Disney Chef Danny Contreras, a proud Colombian, graciously shared his cherished arepa recipe straight from the treasured vault of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.
Photo by Leila Issa on Unsplash
Arepas, a culinary gem of Colombia, are crafted from three simple ingredients: pre-cooked corn flour, water, and a touch of fat like butter, which binds the dough together. These versatile corn cakes can be enjoyed in savory or sweet variations, filled with delectable ingredients like meat or cheese. For Chef Danny, making arepas is a cherished tradition that allows him to pass down his Colombian heritage to his daughter. In fact, his father used to say, "A meal without an arepa isn't a complete meal."
Today’s recipe includes tender pork rillettes, a cooking style that results in succulent, slow-cooked pork, which generously fills the heart of the arepa. To elevate the flavors, we top it off with a vibrant Colombian tomato-based sauce called hogao, infused with the aromatic blend of garlic and cumin. Hogao adds a delightful touch, enhancing the taste of every bite.
Below is a link to the recipe:
Download Full Size PDF of Recipe
In an exciting conversation, Chef Danny had the pleasure of discussing arepas and the upcoming Adventures by Disney trip to Colombia with Thomas Mazloum, the esteemed President of Disney Signature Experiences.
Use Mouseseats to find reservation openings!