Sliced Yuca
Roots
Nutri-ScoreB

Sliced Yuca

Manihot esculenta

Clinical Encyclopedia

Sliced yuca, also known as cassava, is a starchy root vegetable rich in carbohydrates and a good source of energy. It is commonly used in various cuisines around the world.

Also known as:
Cassava (Global)Manioc (France)Yuca (Latin America)
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%)
Folate18 mcg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Potassium271 mg (6%)
Calcium30 mg (2%)
Iron0.6 mg (3%)
Magnesium25 mg (6%)
Zinc0.3 mg (3%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in carbohydrates, providing a quick source of energy for active individuals.
Contains dietary fiber which aids in digestion and promotes gut health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Raw yuca contains cyanogenic glycosides which can be toxic if not properly cooked. Always ensure yuca is thoroughly cooked before consumption.

How to Prepare & Consume

Peel and boil or fry until golden brown. Can also be used in soups or as a side dish.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

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

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place. Once cut, refrigerate and consume within a few days.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

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

Medicinal Properties
Anti-inflammatoryDigestive aid
Main Applications
Energy source in diets
Gluten-free alternative in baking
Bioactive Compounds
Cyanogenic glycosides

Potentially toxic compounds that require cooking to neutralize.

How to Consume
Boiled, Fried, Mashed, in Soups
Did you know?

"Yuca is a staple food for over 500 million people worldwide and is a key ingredient in tapioca."

Myths vs Realities

MythYuca is poisonous.
RealityRaw yuca contains toxins that are neutralized by cooking.
MythYuca is not nutritious.
RealityYuca is a good source of carbohydrates and provides energy.
MythAll yuca varieties are the same.
RealityThere are sweet and bitter varieties of yuca, with different levels of toxicity.

Healthy Recipes

Crispy Baked Yuca Fries

These baked yuca fries are a healthy alternative to traditional fries, seasoned with herbs and spices for a flavorful crunch.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups sliced yuca
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. 2. Toss the sliced yuca with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the yuca in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Yuca and Black Bean Salad

A refreshing salad combining boiled yuca and black beans, tossed with a zesty lime dressing and fresh herbs.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups boiled sliced yuca
  • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the boiled yuca, black beans, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
  2. 2. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt.
  3. 3. Toss gently to combine and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Yuca and Veggie Stir-Fry

A colorful stir-fry featuring sliced yuca and a medley of vegetables, tossed in a light soy sauce and ginger dressing.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups sliced yuca
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
  2. 2. Add the sliced yuca and stir-fry for 5 minutes, then add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot.
  3. 3. Stir in soy sauce and ginger, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Yuca Pancakes with Avocado Salsa

Delicious yuca pancakes topped with a fresh avocado salsa, perfect for a nutritious breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked mashed yuca
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 tomato, diced
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix mashed yuca, eggs, almond flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
  2. 2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour in batter to form pancakes, cooking until golden on both sides.
  3. 3. In a separate bowl, combine avocado, tomato, lime juice, and salt, then serve on top of the pancakes.

Yuca and Spinach Fritters

These crispy fritters made with yuca and spinach are packed with nutrients and make a great snack or appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups boiled sliced yuca
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mash the boiled yuca and mix in spinach, onion, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form small patties and heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. 3. Fry the fritters until golden brown on both sides, then drain on paper towels.

Yuca and Chicken Curry

A hearty and comforting curry featuring yuca and tender chicken, simmered in a fragrant coconut milk sauce.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups sliced yuca
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add chicken and cook until browned, then stir in curry powder, yuca, and coconut milk.
  3. 3. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and yuca is tender.

Yuca Tacos with Grilled Vegetables

These yuca tacos are a gluten-free option filled with grilled vegetables and topped with a tangy lime crema.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups sliced yuca
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil yuca slices until tender, then grill or pan-fry until slightly charred.
  2. 2. In a skillet, toss zucchini and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill until tender.
  3. 3. Mix Greek yogurt with lime juice, then assemble tacos with yuca, grilled vegetables, and drizzle with lime crema.

Yuca and Mushroom Risotto

A creamy risotto made with sliced yuca and mushrooms, offering a unique twist on a classic Italian dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup sliced yuca
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent, then add mushrooms and cook until soft.
  2. 2. Stir in Arborio rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, then gradually add vegetable broth, stirring frequently.
  3. 3. Add sliced yuca after 10 minutes and continue cooking until rice is creamy and al dente.

Yuca Smoothie Bowl

A nutritious smoothie bowl featuring yuca, blended with fruits and topped with granola and seeds for a healthy breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked yuca
  • 1 banana
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 cup granola
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. Blend cooked yuca, banana, almond milk, and honey until smooth.
  2. 2. Pour into a bowl and top with granola and chia seeds.
  3. 3. Serve immediately for a refreshing breakfast.

Spicy Yuca and Shrimp Skewers

Grilled skewers of marinated shrimp and yuca, spiced to perfection for a delightful outdoor meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups sliced yuca
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil yuca slices until tender, then cool and skewer with shrimp.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, lime juice, and salt, then brush over skewers.
  3. 3. Grill on medium heat for 5-7 minutes, turning until shrimp are cooked and yuca is slightly charred.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is yuca safe to eat raw?

No, raw yuca contains cyanogenic glycosides which can be toxic. Always cook yuca thoroughly.

How do you prepare yuca?

Peel the yuca, cut it into slices, and boil or fry until cooked through.

What are the health benefits of yuca?

Yuca is rich in carbohydrates and provides energy, as well as dietary fiber for digestive health.

Can yuca be used in gluten-free recipes?

Yes, yuca is naturally gluten-free and can be used as a substitute in various recipes.

How should yuca be stored?

Store fresh yuca in a cool, dry place. Once cut, keep it in the refrigerator.

What is the glycemic index of yuca?

Yuca has a glycemic index of 54, which is moderate.

Can yuca be frozen?

Yes, cooked yuca can be frozen for later use.

What dishes can be made with yuca?

Yuca can be made into fries, mashed, or used in soups and stews.