Step 1

Combine the cornmeal, warm water, cheese, 1 tbsp butter and salt, mixing thoroughly. Let mixture stand for five minutes.

Step 2

Knead with your hands for about 3 minutes moistening your hands with water as you work.

Step 3

Form 4 small balls with the dough. Place each ball between 2 plastic bags and with a flat pot cover flatten to 1/2 inch.

Step 4

Add the butter to a nonstick pan over medium heat. Place the arepas in the pan, and cook about 3 minutes on each side, until a crust forms or they are golden brown.