People are always looking for ways to make their favorite comfort foods a little bit healthier.

Baked fries have been a tasty option for many who still want to enjoy potatoes in their most popular form without all of the grease and fat. In the last couple of years, sweet potato fries have grown in popularity since they have more fiber and less carbs and calories than regular white potatoes. Plus, they just taste really good! Well, we have another tuber for you to throw in the mix…yuca! (the “u” makes the long sound).

Yuca, also known as cassava, is a long tuberous, starchy root vegetable, similar to a potato. It’s the third largest carbohydrate consumed in the tropics! It has a brown fibrous outside with a white fleshy inside and has a more chewy texture. You can bake, boil, steam or mash yuca just like you would with a potato. This versatile root is very low in fat, cholesterol and sodium and is full of vitamin C, potassium, manganese, folate and fiber. However, keep in mind that just like its potato cousins, it’s high in carbs, so moderation is key.

Yuca Root

Since many of our clients love baked fries, we thought we’d share a yuca baked fries recipe that is paired with a refreshing cilantro dipping sauce. (we could practically gulp this down!). Yuca fries make the perfect side dish or snack when your junk food cravings kick in.

Yuca Baked Fries with Cilantro Dipping Sauce

Ingredients:

Servings: 4-6

  • 2 pounds yuca, peeled and cut into 1/3-inch-thick fries
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • A generous pinch of sea salt

Cilantro Dip:

  • 3 tablespoons sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated garlic
  • A pinch of sea salt

 

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Place cut yuca onto a non-stick baking sheet and toss with oil and salt. Bake for 30 minutes, tossing with tongs after the first 15 minutes, until fries are golden brown. To make the dip, stir together all the ingredients; taste and re-season if necessary. Serve the fries immediately after baking. Refrigerate the cilantro dip for about 10-15 minutes for best results.