Arepas with Cheese

• 3 cups white masa harina (see Note)
• 6 ounces finely grated feta or mozzarella, plus more for topping
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 3/4 cups warm water
• 3 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, plus more for spreading

1. In a large bowl, mix the masa harina with 6 ounces of the feta and the salt.
2. Slowly add the water while stirring with a wooden spoon.
3. Add 3 tablespoons of the butter and stir until smooth.
4. Turn the dough out onto a work surface and knead for 1 to 2 minutes or until it comes together in a smooth mass.
5. Set a cast-iron griddle over moderate heat.
6. Divide the arepa dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
7. On a clean work surface, flatten the balls of arepa dough and pat them into 5-inch rounds with smooth edges.
8. Spread 1 teaspoon of softened butter on 1 side of an arepa and set it on the griddle, buttered side down.
9. Using a flat spatula, press the arepa into a 6-inch round about 1/3 inch thick; carefully smooth the edges if necessary.
10. Cook the arepa over moderately low heat until browned, about 6 minutes; reduce the heat to low if the arepa browns too quickly.
11. Spread the top of the arepa with 1 teaspoon of butter, flip and cook for 6 minutes longer, or until browned.
12. Transfer the arepa to a plate, sprinkle with cheese and serve.
13. Repeat with the remaining arepas.

white masa, mozzarella, salt, water, unsalted butter

Taken from www.foodandwine.com/recipes/arepas-with-cheese (may not work)