Question 1

True or false: Arepas are naturally gluten-free because they are made from corn, not wheat flour.

Accepted Answer

True. Yes, authentic arepas use 100% corn flour (masarepa), which contains no gluten. This makes them a safe choice for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Question 2

True or false: Arepas can be stuffed with ingredients like cheese, meat, or avocado after they are cooked.

Accepted Answer

True. Yes, arepas are split open and filled—like a pocket. Common fillings include queso blanco, shredded beef, chicken, or avocado. This is their most popular serving style.

Question 3

True or false: The dough for arepas is made from wheat flour, not corn, in most traditional recipes.

Accepted Answer

False. Traditional arepas use pre-cooked corn flour (masarepa), not wheat. Wheat flour arepas exist but are a modern variation, especially in Colombia's bread-heavy regions.

Question 4

True or false: Arepas are a staple food in both Colombia and Venezuela.

Accepted Answer

True. Arepas, cornmeal cakes, are traditional and widely consumed in both countries, each considering them a national dish. Origin debates are irrelevant to their modern status as key culinary staples in both Colombia and Venezuela.

Question 5

True or false: Arepas are often eaten for breakfast in Venezuela but rarely served at any other meal.

Accepted Answer

False. Arepas are eaten for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Venezuela. They are a versatile staple, filled with anything from eggs in the morning to meat and beans at night.

Question 6

True or false: Arepas are always fried in oil, never baked or grilled, to achieve their crispy crust.

Accepted Answer

False. Arepas can be fried, baked, grilled, or even steamed. In Colombia, they're often grilled or baked; fried versions are common but not universal.

Question 7

True or false: The word 'arepa' comes from an indigenous Venezuelan language meaning 'corn bread.'

Accepted Answer

False. The origin is debated, but most linguists trace 'arepa' to the Cumanagoto language (Caribbean branch), where 'erepa' meant 'corn.' It doesn't directly mean 'corn bread'—that's a modern interpretation.

Question 8

True or false: In some parts of South America, arepas are made with a pinch of sugar for a slightly sweet flavor.

Accepted Answer

True. Yes, especially in Colombia's Andean region, sweet arepas (arepas dulces) include sugar or panela. They're often eaten with butter or cheese for a sweet-savory combo.

Arepas Trivia Questions