Root Vegetable | Vegan Gluten Free Paleo Low Sodium

Yuca

Manihot esculenta Allergen-Free
Yuca

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Euphorbiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Latin American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Yuca root

The Forktionary Angle

""

Definition

A starchy, tuberous root vegetable native to South America, known for its mild flavor and versatility in cooking.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Starchy, Slightly nutty
TextureFirm (raw), Soft (cooked), Fibrous
AromaEarthy, Subtle
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 cup (206g)
Calories160 kcal
Total Fat0.3 g
Saturated Fat0.1 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.4 g
Total Carbohydrate38 g
Dietary Fiber1.8 g
Total Sugars1.7 g
Calcium16 mg
Iron0.27 mg
Potassium271 mg

Chef’s Secret

To reduce cooking time and ensure even doneness, cut yuca into uniform pieces and boil before frying or roasting.

Substitutions

Best Match

Potato

1:1

Good for mashing or frying, similar starchiness.

Sweet Potato

1:1

Adds sweetness, similar texture when cooked.

Taro

1:1

Root vegetable, similar starch and texture, earthy flavor.

Plantain

1:1

Best for frying or roasting, adds sweetness or savory depending on ripeness.

Buying Guide

Look for firm, unblemished roots without soft spots or mold.

Flavor Pairings

Garlic Lime Cilantro Pork Beef Seafood Spicy sauces.

Recipes Using Yuca

Andes Style Papas Rellenas image 158
Meat Savory Pies Time To Make Main Dish

Andes Style Papas Rellenas

Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru and Colombia with this authentic Papas Rellenas recipe! These crispy, deep-fried stuffed potatoes are filled with a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, olives, and hard-boiled eggs. Learn how to create the perfect potato dough, master the flavorful meat filling, and achieve that golden-brown, irresistible crust. This recipe offers a delicious twist with the option to include yuca for extra texture. Serve with a zesty aji or sarza criolla sauce for a complete culinary journey!

See Complete Recipe