Cuban Yuca Fries

Cuban Yuca Fries Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Cuba

Region / culture: Cuba | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Cuban Yuca Fries are a delicious and crispy snack that can be enjoyed on their own or as a side dish. Made from yuca, also known as cassava, these fries are a popular dish in Cuban cuisine. In this recipe, we will show you how to make these tasty fries at home.

History

Yuca has been a staple food in Latin American and African cuisine for centuries. It is a versatile tuber that can be boiled, fried, or mashed. Yuca fries are a popular street food in Cuba, where they are often served with a side of garlic sauce or mojo.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of yuca, peeled and thickly sliced
salt and ground black pepper
vegetable or peanut oil for frying

How to prepare

4 SERVINGS DAIRY-FREE
Yuca, also known as cassava, is a tuber commonly used in Latin American and African cuisine.
Place the yuca slices in a large saucepan and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the yuca is tender but still slightly firm, which should take about 20 to 30 minutes. Drain the yuca and let it cool slightly. Once it's cool enough to handle, cut the yuca into strips that are approximately 0.25 inches wide, discarding any woody cores.
In a large skillet, heat 2 inches of oil to a temperature of 360°F (182°C) (or use a deep-fat fryer). Cook the yuca pieces in batches until they turn golden brown. Drain them on paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Serve the yuca while it's still warm.

Variations

Try seasoning the yuca fries with different spices, such as paprika or cumin.
For a healthier option, bake the yuca fries instead of frying them.
Add a sprinkle of grated cheese on top of the yuca fries for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to peel the yuca thoroughly before slicing it. The skin of yuca can be tough and bitter.

- Be careful when frying the yuca, as the oil can splatter. Use a deep-fat fryer if possible to minimize mess.

- Season the yuca fries immediately after frying to ensure that the seasoning sticks to the hot fries.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the yuca fries with a side of garlic sauce or mojo for an authentic Cuban experience. They also pair well with grilled meats or seafood.

Cooking Techniques

Frying is the traditional method for making yuca fries, but you can also bake them in the oven for a healthier alternative.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find yuca, you can use parsnips or sweet potatoes as a substitute. You can also use vegetable oil instead of peanut oil for frying.

Make Ahead Tips

You can peel and slice the yuca ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to fry it. The fried yuca fries are best served immediately.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the yuca fries in a basket lined with parchment paper for a casual presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Yuca fries pair well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, and salads. They also make a great appetizer for a Cuban-themed dinner party.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Yuca fries are best served fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place the fries on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of yuca fries contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Yuca is a starchy vegetable that is high in carbohydrates. One serving of yuca fries contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Yuca fries are fried in peanut oil, which adds some fat to the dish. One serving of yuca fries contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Yuca is not a significant source of protein. One serving of yuca fries contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Yuca is a good source of vitamin C, folate, and potassium. It also contains small amounts of vitamin B6 and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe is dairy-free and gluten-free. However, it contains peanuts, so be cautious if you have a nut allergy.

Summary

Yuca fries are a tasty and satisfying snack that is high in carbohydrates and moderate in fats. They are a good source of vitamin C and potassium.

Summary

Cuban Yuca Fries are a delicious and crispy snack that is easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can enjoy this tasty dish in no time. Serve them as a side dish or as a snack for your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Cuban Yuca Fries. It was many years ago, during a visit to Havana, Cuba. I had always been fascinated by Cuban cuisine and was eager to learn as much as I could about the flavors and techniques that make it so unique.

One hot afternoon, I found myself wandering through the bustling streets of Old Havana, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the vibrant city. As I passed by a small street food stall, the intoxicating aroma of fried yuca filled the air, drawing me in like a magnet. I watched as the vendor expertly peeled and chopped the yuca, then fried it to golden perfection in a large pot of bubbling oil. The scent was irresistible, and I knew I had to try this dish for myself.

I approached the vendor and asked if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. To my delight, she agreed, and we spent the rest of the afternoon chatting and cooking together. She showed me how to select the best yuca roots, how to cook them just right to achieve the perfect texture, and how to season them with the traditional Cuban flavors that make this dish so delicious.

As I savored my first bite of the crispy, golden yuca fries, I knew that I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a beloved favorite in my own kitchen. I thanked the vendor profusely for her generosity and promised to carry on the tradition of making Cuban Yuca Fries in my own home.

Over the years, I have perfected my own version of the recipe, adding my own personal touches and tweaks to make it uniquely my own. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about the crispy, flavorful yuca fries that have become a staple at our gatherings.

To make Cuban Yuca Fries, start by selecting the best yuca roots you can find. Look for roots that are firm and free of blemishes, with a smooth, shiny skin. Peel the yuca with a sharp knife, then cut it into long strips, like thick French fries.

Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the yuca fries. Cook them until they are tender but still firm, about 10-15 minutes. Drain the yuca and pat it dry with a paper towel.

While the yuca is cooking, heat a pot of oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully add the yuca fries to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the yuca until it is golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.

Remove the yuca fries from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Season them with a generous sprinkle of salt and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve the yuca fries hot, with a side of tangy mojo sauce for dipping.

I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious Cuban Yuca Fries as much as I do. They are a taste of Havana in every bite, and a wonderful reminder of the day I stumbled upon this recipe and began my culinary adventure in Cuban cuisine. Buen provecho!