The Best Recipes That Feature Yuca in All Its Delicious Glory

By Emilia Benton

Updated on 8/5/2017 at 9:00 AM

Growing up in a Latin household, you're probably already familiar with yuca, also known as cassava or manioca. But there's a reason your mom let you eat yuca fry after yuca fry without any objection: the root vegetable is a longtime staple of Latin American cuisine not only because of its delicious starchy flavor but also for its healthy powers fighting inflammation and even high blood pressure. Now that Mom is not always around to cook the veggie for you, it's time to try your hand at making the comfort food. Yuca can be mashed or steamed, or even cooked in soups or desserts — seriously! Keep scrolling for nine recipes to get you started, then check out 125+ ideas for every Summer party.

First, the classics: when craving a salty, starchy batch of fries, homemade yuca fries will surely hit the spot. Bonus points if you've got a side of chimichurri sauce for dipping.

A side of mashed yuca done right is a unique alternative to the ever-comforting potato version.

When you want a carb alternative for traditional pasta, gnocchi is a popular go-to. Take it a step further and swap the potato for yuca. Trust us, you won't regret it.

Boiled yuca is a classic way to cook this vegetable, and this version pairs well as a side to slow-cooked meat.

Yuca hash browns as an alternative to home fries with breakfast? You don't have to ask us twice.

Yuca con mojo is a Cuban-style version of boiled yuca, prepared with a garlic citrus sauce.

Dominican yuca empanadas, stuffed with beef and vegetables, would make an excellent party appetizer.

Baked yuca chips, served on their own or paired with sweet potato and beet chips, are an excellent alternative to processed potato chips.

In Mexico, cassava fritters, or buñelos de yuca, are a popular choice for a sweet dessert.