Easy 3-Ingredient Yuca Fries: Crispy & Baked to Perfection
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If you're looking for a new snack idea, these 3-ingredient Yuca Fries are a must-try! Baked to a perfect golden crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, they make a great gluten-free alternative to traditional fries. Whether you’re making a quick side dish or something tasty for the family, this easy recipe with yuca is simple to follow and delicious every time. Even if you’ve never cooked with yuca before, don’t worry—just follow the steps, and you'll have a crispy, flavorful snack in no time!
What Is Yuca Fries?
Yuca fries are a delicious alternative to traditional potato fries, made from the starchy root vegetable known as yuca, or cassava. Native to Latin America, yuca has a mild flavor and a slightly chewy texture. When cut into matchsticks, boiled, and baked or fried, yuca turns into crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside fries that are naturally gluten-free. They're perfect for anyone looking for a unique, hearty snack or side dish!
Yuca fries pair well with a variety of dips and sides! You can serve them with classic options like mayo ketchup, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo for extra flavor. For a Latin twist, try pairing them with chimichurri or guacamole. They also make a great side dish for grilled meats, burgers, or roasted vegetables, adding a crispy and satisfying texture to any meal.
You might enjoy these cassava (yuca) recipes:
- Pan De Yuca
- How to Cook Yuca Using an Instant Pot
- Instant Pot Yuca en Escabeche (Pickled Yuca Salad)
Baked Yuca Fries Ingredients
Yuca — you’ll need 1 pound of peeled yuca, cut into matchsticks. Make sure the yuca is fresh, and discard any pieces with dark spots.
Vegetable oil — 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil to help crisp up the fries while baking. Olive oil or avocado oil works well too.
Salt — 1 teaspoon of salt to season the fries. You can adjust the amount to taste or add other seasonings like chili powder for extra flavor.
How To Make Easy Yuca Fries
- Prep the yuca: Start by peeling the yuca root carefully. Once peeled, cut it into matchstick-sized pieces. Make sure to remove any tough or fibrous parts inside the yuca.
- Boil the yuca: Place the yuca pieces in a pot of water and bring it to a boil. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the yuca is soft but not falling apart. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Preheat the oven: While the yuca cools, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This will help the fries get crispy.
- Season the fries: Arrange the boiled yuca on a baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss the fries gently to make sure they're evenly coated.
- Bake the fries: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the yuca fries are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve and enjoy: Once baked, remove the fries from the oven and serve them warm. You can add extra seasonings like pepper or chili powder to taste if desired. Enjoy as a side dish or snack!
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Yuca Fries: Add a sprinkle of chili powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper before baking to give the fries a spicy kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Yuca Fries: Toss the fries in minced garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese after baking for a flavorful twist.
- Herbed Yuca Fries: Season the fries with dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano before baking for an aromatic and earthy flavor.
- Sweet and Smoky Yuca Fries: Combine smoked paprika and a little brown sugar for a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the natural starchiness of the yuca.
- Lime and Cilantro Yuca Fries: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the baked fries and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a bright and zesty finish.
- Cheesy Yuca Fries: Melt shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the fries in the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy upgrade.
- Curried Yuca Fries: Add curry powder and a bit of turmeric before baking for a rich, spiced flavor that adds an Indian-inspired twist to your fries.
Tips for Making the Perfect Yuca Fries
- Choose Fresh Yuca: Look for yuca with firm, smooth skin. Avoid yuca with soft spots or black streaks, as these can indicate it's spoiled.
- Don’t Overcook the Yuca: When boiling, be careful not to overcook it. You want it soft but not falling apart, as this makes it easier to handle before baking.
- Remove the Fibrous Core: Yuca has a tough, stringy core running through the center. Be sure to remove this part after boiling for the best texture.
- Flip for Even Crisping: Flip the fries halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness on all sides.
- Bake in a Single Layer: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Arrange the yuca in a single layer for the best results.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- How to Store: Store any leftover yuca fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- How to Reheat: To keep the fries crispy, reheat them in the oven or an air fryer at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it will make them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know when yuca is cooked?
Yuca is ready to be baked when it’s tender enough to pierce with a fork but still holds its shape. After boiling for 8-10 minutes, it should be soft but not falling apart.uca Fries at home and enjoy their crispy goodness. Your taste buds will thank you!
Can I freeze yuca fries?
Yes, you can freeze boiled yuca before baking. After boiling and cooling, lay the yuca fries on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, you can cook them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best substitute for yuca if I can’t find it?
If yuca isn’t available, you can try using other root vegetables like sweet potatoes, parsnips, or taro to make similar fries.
I hope you enjoy making these easy, crispy yuca fries! They’re the perfect gluten-free snack or side dish and a great addition to any meal. Whether you're serving baked yuca fries with your favorite dip or alongside a hearty dish, they’re sure to be a hit. If you try this recipe with yuca, be sure to leave a comment and rate the recipe below. I’d love to hear how your yuca fries turned out!
Yuca Fries - Easy 3 Ingredient Fries
Looking for a delicious, healthy snack? These crispy baked Yuca Fries are made with just 3 simple ingredients!
Perfectly golden on the outside and soft on the inside, they're a gluten-free alternative to traditional fries.
Whether you're making a quick side dish or fun snack, this easy recipe with yuca is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 Pound of boiled yuca, peeled cut into matchsticks*
- 3 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 Tsp salt
Instructions
- The yuca should be peeled and cut into matchsticks.
- Boil the yuca until soft, about 8-10 minutes, and then strain.
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.
- Arrange the yuca fries on a baking pan in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Take to the oven and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- After boiling the yuca, be sure to remove the tough fibrous core in the center before baking. Yuca can also vary in texture, so make sure it's fully boiled to prevent it from being too chewy.
- If your fries aren’t getting crispy, try flipping them halfway through baking for even browning.
- The inside of the yuca should be white. If there are black lines, discard them and use another yuca.
- The Yuca should be cut into matchsticks, boiled until soft, about 8-10 minutes, and then strain.
- You can sprinkle some ground pepper or chili powder according to your preferred taste.
Recommended Products
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French Fry Cutter, Apple Cutter, Onion Chopper, Vegetable Slicer, Super Sharp Blades, Easy to Clean, Dishwasher Safe, Perfect for Air Fryer, With Container -
French Fry Cutter, Sopito Professional Potato Cutter Stainless Steel with 1/2-Inch Blade Great for Potatoes Carrots Cucumbers
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 2 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 543Total Fat: 21gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 1194mgCarbohydrates: 86gFiber: 4gSugar: 4gProtein: 3g
These nutritional calculations might not be accurate. Please speak with a licensed nutritionist to assist you.
