Yuca Fries
Let me tell you the perfect way to make crispy yuca fries—something that's close to my heart. Growing up, yuca was a huge part of my life, especially since I’m half-Nicaraguan. This recipe for yuca fries, baked instead of fried, gives it a healthy twist, and I’m excited to show you exactly how I do it. With only a few simple ingredients, the outcome is crispy on the exterior and tender on the inside, making it perfect for dipping into a tangy cilantro sauce.
Yuca Fries Recipe
Here’s the full recipe overview to make it easier for you:
Ingredients:
3 lbs yuca root
2 tbsp avocado oil
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
For the sauce:
1 1/2 cups fresh cilantro
1/2 cup light mayo
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of water to boil.
2. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
3. Peel and slice the yuca.
4. Boil for 10 minutes.
5. Drain and dry the yuca.
6. Toss with oil, salt, paprika, and garlic powder.
7. Bake for 30 minutes or until crispy.
8. Blend all the sauce ingredients and serve with the fries.
How to Make Yuca Fries
Yuca fries are really simple to prepare and go well with a wide variety of foods. Try them with rice, chicken, tacos, or any other cuisine! This has been my go-to recipe and my kids have always loved it too. Yucca is an excellent alternative to potatoes because it has a lower glycemic index and more fiber, making it not only delicious but also a healthier option.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here’s what you need to make this dish:
For the Yuca Fries:
Yuca root – If you're having trouble finding it, check out Walmart or Whole Foods; they often have fresh yuca.
Avocado oil – It gives a great flavor, but you can use any cooking oil.
Salt, paprika, garlic powder – These add just the right amount of seasoning to bring out the natural taste of yuca.
For the Cilantro Sauce:
Fresh cilantro – Trust me, fresh is key!
Light mayo – Or try a healthier avocado oil-based mayo.
Lime juice – This adds the perfect tangy balance.
Minced garlic and salt – Fresh minced garlic brings the sauce to life.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Yuca Fries
The secret to these fries is in the details, and I’ll walk you through each step to make sure yours turn out just as crispy and delicious as mine.
1. Boil the Yuca: Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil.
2. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Peel the yuca: Cut off the ends and use a vegetable peeler to get rid of the skin. Sometimes it takes two passes to get it all off.
4. Slice the yuca: If it’s a longer root, cut it in half, then slice into fry or wedge shapes.
5. Boil the yuca for about 10 minutes until it’s just fork-tender. You don’t want it too soft.
6. Drain and pat the fries dry.
7. Toss the yuca in avocado oil, then add the salt, paprika, and garlic powder.
8. Bake for 30 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
How to Make the Cilantro Sauce
Now, what’s a fry without a dipping sauce? My favorite sauce to go with these fries is this cilantro-lime one, and it's so simple to make.
To make the sauce, just put the chopped garlic, lime juice, chopped cilantro, mayo, and salt in a blender and process until smooth. Adjust the tastes to your preference and voila!
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Yuca Fries Recipe Variations
Would you like to add a personal touch? Here are a few ideas to make a change:
Give it a spicy kick with some cayenne or chili powder.
Add some dried herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to give it some more flavor.
Try air-frying them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
After baking, sprinkle with Parmesan for cheesy goodness, or go for smoked paprika and a little brown sugar for a smoky-sweet flavor.
What to Serve with Yuca Fries
They go well with spicy aioli, ketchup, and even a simple kale beef burger. They can also be eaten with Cuban mojo chicken, shrimp tacos, and other cuisines. For an indulgent touch, top them with bacon, sour cream, and melted cheese to make loaded fries.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare in my household!), simply refrigerate them for two to three days in an airtight container. They can be crispy again by reheating them in the air fryer for ten minutes!