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Organic Cassava
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Organic Cassava

Manihot esculenta

Clinical Encyclopedia

Organic cassava is a starchy root vegetable known for its high carbohydrate content and versatility in culinary applications. It is a staple food in many tropical regions and is rich in energy.

Also known as:
YucaManioc
Scientific NameManihot esculenta
Region of OriginSouth America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories160 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber1.8g
Total39.8g
Protein
1.4g(4%)
Fats
0.3g(1%)
Carbohydrates
38.1g(96%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C20 mg (22%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.02 mg (2%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)0.5 mg (3%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (6%)
Folate18 mcg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin E: 0.2 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium30 mg (2%)
Iron0.6 mg (3%)
Magnesium25 mg (6%)
Phosphorus38 mg (3%)
Potassium271 mg (6%)
Zinc0.3 mg (2%)
Copper0.1 mg (5%)
Manganese0.2 mg (10%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0.6 mcg

Health Benefits

Rich in carbohydrates, providing a quick source of energy, making it ideal for athletes and active individuals.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health, including Vitamin C and potassium.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Raw cassava contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can be toxic if not properly prepared. Always cook cassava thoroughly before consumption.

How to Prepare & Consume

Peel, wash, and cook cassava by boiling, steaming, or frying. It can also be processed into flour or tapioca.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose firm, unblemished cassava roots with smooth skin. Avoid any that are soft or have dark spots.

How to Store

Store cassava in a cool, dry place. Once cut, wrap it in plastic and refrigerate to maintain freshness.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Digestive aidEnergy booster
Main Applications
Culinary uses in various dishes
Gluten-free flour alternative
Bioactive Compounds
Cyanogenic glycosides

Potentially toxic compounds that require proper cooking to neutralize.

How to Consume
Boiled, Fried, Mashed, Flour
Did you know?

"Cassava is one of the largest sources of calories in the tropics and is often used to combat food insecurity."

Myths vs Realities

MythCassava is poisonous and should never be eaten.
RealityWhile raw cassava contains toxins, proper cooking eliminates these risks, making it safe to eat.
MythAll cassava varieties are the same.
RealityThere are sweet and bitter varieties of cassava; bitter varieties contain higher levels of toxins and require more careful preparation.
MythCassava is not nutritious.
RealityCassava is a good source of carbohydrates and provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Healthy Recipes

Cassava and Kale Salad

A refreshing salad featuring roasted organic cassava and nutrient-rich kale, dressed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups organic cassava, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cups kale, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cassava cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale, roasted cassava, lemon juice, and additional olive oil.
  3. 3. Toss well and serve immediately for a crunchy, nutritious salad.

Spicy Cassava Fries

Crispy baked cassava fries seasoned with spices, offering a healthy alternative to traditional fries.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups organic cassava, cut into fry shapes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, toss the cassava fries with olive oil, paprika, cayenne, and salt.
  2. 2. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  3. 3. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Cassava Pancakes

Fluffy and gluten-free pancakes made with organic cassava flour, perfect for a healthy breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup organic cassava flour
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk together cassava flour, almond milk, eggs, honey, and baking powder until smooth.
  2. 2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake.
  3. 3. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown. Serve with fresh fruit.

Cassava and Black Bean Tacos

Flavorful tacos filled with spiced cassava and black beans, topped with fresh avocado and cilantro.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups organic cassava, diced
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Corn tortillas
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil the diced cassava until tender, about 15 minutes, then drain and mash slightly.
  2. 2. In a pan, combine the mashed cassava, black beans, and cumin, cooking until heated through.
  3. 3. Serve the mixture in corn tortillas, topped with avocado and cilantro.

Cassava Smoothie Bowl

A nutrient-packed smoothie bowl featuring blended cassava and topped with fresh fruits and seeds.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked organic cassava
  • 1 banana
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • Fresh fruits for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. Blend the cooked cassava, banana, and almond milk until smooth.
  2. 2. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and sprinkle with chia seeds and fresh fruits.
  3. 3. Enjoy with a spoon for a healthy breakfast or snack.

Cassava Vegetable Stir-Fry

A colorful stir-fry featuring organic cassava and a variety of vegetables, tossed in a light soy sauce.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups organic cassava, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat and add sliced cassava, cooking until slightly tender.
  2. 2. Add bell pepper and broccoli, stir-frying for another 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Drizzle with soy sauce and serve hot.

Cassava and Coconut Pudding

A creamy and naturally sweet pudding made with cassava and coconut milk, perfect for dessert.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup organic cassava, grated
  • 2 cups coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, combine grated cassava, coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt.
  2. 2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 10-15 minutes.
  3. 3. Pour into bowls and refrigerate until set. Serve chilled.

Cassava and Spinach Fritters

Crispy fritters made with mashed cassava and fresh spinach, ideal for a healthy snack or appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups cooked organic cassava, mashed
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix mashed cassava, spinach, egg, onion, salt, and pepper until combined.
  2. 2. Form small patties and heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a little oil.
  3. 3. Cook fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Serve warm.

Cassava and Chickpea Curry

A hearty and flavorful curry featuring cassava and chickpeas, simmered in coconut milk and spices.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups organic cassava, diced
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 onion, chopped
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion until translucent, then add diced cassava and curry powder, cooking for 2 minutes.
  2. 2. Pour in coconut milk and chickpeas, simmering for 20 minutes until cassava is tender.
  3. 3. Serve hot over brown rice or quinoa.

Cassava Energy Bites

Nutritious energy bites made with cassava flour, nuts, and dried fruits, perfect for a quick snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup organic cassava flour
  • 1/2 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup mixed nuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried fruits, chopped
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix cassava flour, almond butter, honey, nuts, and dried fruits until well combined.
  2. 2. Form into small balls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Enjoy as a healthy snack on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is cassava gluten-free?

Yes, cassava is naturally gluten-free, making it a great alternative for those with gluten intolerance.

How do you prepare cassava?

Cassava should be peeled, washed, and cooked thoroughly to remove toxins before consumption.

Can you eat cassava raw?

No, raw cassava contains cyanogenic compounds that can be harmful. Always cook it before eating.

What are the health benefits of cassava?

Cassava is high in carbohydrates, provides energy, and contains vitamins and minerals that support health.

How should cassava be stored?

Store fresh cassava in a cool, dry place. Cooked cassava can be refrigerated for a few days.

Is cassava high in fiber?

Cassava contains some fiber, but it is primarily a starchy vegetable.

What dishes can be made with cassava?

Cassava can be used in various dishes, including cassava fries, porridge, and as a flour substitute.

Is cassava safe for diabetics?

Cassava has a moderate glycemic index, so it should be consumed in moderation by diabetics.