High-Protein Beet Arepas — Corn + Chocho Arepas

High-Protein Beet Arepas — Boosted with Chocho for Flavor, Fiber & Protein

Arepas are a beloved staple across Latin America — a versatile corn flatbread often enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The classic recipes are delicious, but many are heavy on carbs and light on protein or fiber. Our Beet Arepas remix tradition: by adding Chocho protein, we amplify nutrition while keeping the vibrant color and delicious flavor.

Whether for a nourishing breakfast, protein-rich lunch, or colorful dinner, these Beet + Chocho Arepas offer color, taste, and balanced macros — perfect for modern plant-based or high-protein diets.

🌱 Why These Beet Arepas Are a Smart, Nutrient-Rich Twist

• Extra plant protein & fiber thanks to Chocho — The addition of Chocho boosts protein content significantly beyond traditional corn-only arepas, making them more filling, satisfying, and muscle-supportive.

• Natural color + subtle beet flavor — The beet-infused water gives each arepa a beautiful reddish-purple hue and a faint earthy-sweetness, adding both nutrition (antioxidants, phytonutrients) and visual appeal. Beet-enhanced arepas have a tradition in Latin American recipes as a nutritious, veggie-forward alternative. enrilemoine.com+1

• Gluten-free and cleaner carbohydrate base — Using gluten-free corn flour with Chocho keeps the recipe accessible for many dietary needs while improving its protein-to-carb ratio compared with standard arepas.

• Balanced savory flavor profile — A hint of curry and paprika gives these arepas a mild spice and warmth, complementing the earthiness of beet and the subtle graininess of corn + Chocho.

🍽️ Recipe: High-Protein Beet Arepas

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup gluten-free corn flour

• ⅓ cup MIKUNA Pure Chocho

• ½ cup diced beets

• 1 cup water (for beet water)

• ½ tsp sea salt

• A dash of curry powder

• A dash of paprika

• 1 tsp olive oil

• A pinch of black pepper

Instructions:

1. Make beet water: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup water with the diced beets. Gently bring to a simmer, then turn off heat. Let steep until the water is rich in color and flavor.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine corn flour, Chocho, salt, curry, paprika, and black pepper.

3. Form dough: Slowly pour ~¾ cup beet water into the flour mixture, add olive oil, and stir until unified. If needed, add an extra tbsp of beet water for proper hydration. Let rest for 5 minutes.

4. Shape arepas: Moisten your hands and shape dough into round patties — not too thick for a crispy outer crust.

5. Cook: Heat a skillet with a little oil over medium heat. Cook arepas ~10–15 min per side, until a golden crust forms.

6. Serve & fill: Split open and fill with beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, or your favorite plant-based fillings.

🍞 What Makes These Arepas Different from Traditional Arepas

Traditional arepas — usually made solely from corn flour — tend to be primarily carbohydrate-based with limited protein and fiber. Wikipedia+1

With Chocho added, these Beet Arepas now deliver:

• Higher protein content (helpful for muscle support or satiety)

• More fiber (supporting digestion and stable energy)

• A richer nutritional profile (from both corn and Chocho)

• Unique flavor and color — more than just a starch base

This turns a simple flatbread into a nourishing, whole-food meal base.

🥗 When & How to Enjoy Beet + Chocho Arepas

• As a hearty breakfast — pair with beans, avocado, salsa, or a veggie scramble for a balanced start.

• As a protein-rich lunch or dinner — fill with grilled vegetables, legumes, or plant-based “meat” for a satisfying, balanced meal.

• As a post-workout or recovery meal — the protein from Chocho helps support muscle repair, while the carbs from corn and beets replenish glycogen.

• As a creative meal prep base — bake/cook a batch ahead; they reheat well and make quick sandwiches, bowls, or wraps.

🔗 Related Content (Internal Links Worth Adding)

Add the following to increase SEO value and keep readers engaged across your site:

• → /blogs/journal/why-chocho-is-complete — for deeper nutritional context on Chocho

• → /blogs/journal/chocho-protein-for-athletes — for guidance on protein needs & performance

• → /blogs/recipes — to drive traffic to your full recipe index