The Reina Pepiada arepa is the Venezuelan equivalent of a chicken salad sandwich. Now, with this plant-based adaptation, you can get the same great flavor but with jackfruit and other healthy ingredients.
1. Place the jackfruit in a saucepan and add enough water to cover. Boil for 15 minutes.
2. Drain the jackfruit, rinse with cool water, and shred the jackfruit completely with your hands.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the jackfruit, garlic powder, turmeric, and cumin. Add a little water or vegetable broth, as needed, to prevent the ingredients from sticking, and sauté for 5 minutes. When finished, remove from heat.
4. Meanwhile, combine the onion and cilantro in a bowl.
5. In a separate container, add the plant-based mayonnaise, white vinegar, and avocado.
6. Mash the avocado with a fork until it becomes pureed and incorporated well with the mayonnaise.
7. Combine the three elements of the filling: the onion and chopped cilantro mixture, the mashed avocado mixture, and the sautéed jackfruit. Mix well.
To prepare the arepas
1. Heat the arepas and cut them lengthwise.
2. Fill the arepas with the prepared jackfruit mixture and add sprouts if you like.