The Reina Pepiada: A Venezuelan Pride in Every Bite
If there’s a dish that encapsulates the essence of Venezuelan cuisine, it’s undoubtedly the arepa. This delicious treat, which can be filled with a myriad of ingredients, has captured the palates of people around the world. However, there’s one combination that shines bright: the Reina Pepiada. This arepa, inspired by the beauty of Susana Duijm, is not only a culinary icon but also a symbol of pride for all Venezuelans.
A Bit of History
The Reina Pepiada has a clear origin dating back to the 1950s in Caracas. The Álvarez brothers and their mother, María de los Santos Álvarez, were the creators of this famous dish at their establishment "La Arepera de los Hermanos Álvarez," located between Sabana Grande and Plaza Venezuela. The restaurant quickly became a meeting point for prominent figures of the time, such as Aquiles Nazoa and Renny Ottolina.
In 1955, Susana Duijm won the Miss World pageant, and the Álvarez family decided to pay tribute by dressing one of their nieces as a queen. During the celebration, Susana and her father visited the arepera, tried the stuffed tostadas with chicken and avocado, and it was at that moment that the dish was named "La Reina," in honor of the new queen.
The combination of chicken, avocado, and mayonnaise, which may seem simple to some, has been perfected over the years, becoming a classic that delights everyone. As the renowned chef Armando Scannone said, the marriage between the arepa, roasted chicken, and avocado is a true culinary gem.
How to Make the Perfect Reina Pepiada
Here’s a simple recipe for you to enjoy this delight at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of precooked corn flour
- Warm water (as needed)
- 1 cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup petit pois (green peas)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Arepa: Mix the corn flour with warm water and a pinch of salt until you have a smooth dough. Shape the arepas and cook them on a griddle or skillet until golden brown on both sides and cooked through.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, mashed avocado, mayonnaise, petit pois, salt, and pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Assemble Your Arepa: Once the arepas are ready, carefully open them and generously fill them with the chicken and avocado mixture.
- Enjoy: That’s it! Your Reina Pepiada is ready to enjoy. Pair it with a Venezuelan soft drink or a nice cold beer, and get ready for a feast of flavors.
Tips for Maximum Enjoyment
- Variety of Ingredients: While the traditional recipe is delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with other ingredients. Some add cheese, lettuce, or even hot sauce for a special touch.
- Accompaniments: The Reina Pepiada pairs perfectly with a good fruit juice or a cold beer. Don’t forget to include these on your table!
- Culture and Tradition: When preparing and enjoying the Reina Pepiada, you’re not just savoring a dish; you’re also being part of a rich history and Venezuelan tradition. Share this experience with friends and family to celebrate our roots.
Conclusion
The Reina Pepiada is more than just a simple arepa; it is a symbol of pride and a reminder of the creativity and talent of the Venezuelan people. Whether you enjoy it at home or in an arepera, each bite will transport you to the warmth of Venezuelan cuisine. So, what are you waiting for? Roll up your sleeves and enjoy this delight!
