Mediterranean Diet Crispy Fried Cassava
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, Mediterranean Diet Crispy Fried Cassava is a flavor-packed snack or side dish that brings the vibrant essence of the Mediterranean to your table. Made with nutrient-rich cassava (also known as yuca), the dish is infused with a harmonious blend of garlic, cumin, and paprika, then perfectly fried to golden perfection using heart-healthy extra virgin olive oil. A fresh drizzle of zesty lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley add brightness and freshness, creating a delightful balance of crispiness and tang. This easy-to-make recipe is ready in just 35 minutes and serves four, making it ideal for a quick snack or an impressive addition to your dinner spread. Perfect for lovers of Mediterranean flavors seeking a gluten-free, naturally vegan treat that's as wholesome as it is delicious.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Cassava (yuca)
- 0.5 cups Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Begin by peeling the cassava to remove the thick, brown skin. Cut the peeled cassava into roughly 3-inch long pieces, then slice each piece in half lengthwise.
2. Place the cassava in a large pot and cover with water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cassava is fork-tender but not falling apart.
3. Once cooked, drain the cassava and allow it to cool slightly. Pat each piece dry with paper towels to ensure they are dry before frying.
4. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough by testing with a piece of cassava - it should sizzle immediately upon contact.
5. In a small mixing bowl, combine the garlic powder, cumin, paprika, remaining salt (0.5 teaspoon), and black pepper.
6. Fry the cassava pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook each piece until golden and crispy on all sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
7. Once fried, remove the cassava using a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Immediately sprinkle the fried cassava with the spice mixture and toss to ensure even coating.
9. Drizzle the lemon juice over the cassava and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
10. Serve hot as a snack or side dish, and enjoy the Mediterranean flavors of this crispy fried cassava.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
623 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.4 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.6 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 762 mg | 33% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 88.2 g | 32% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.6 g | 16% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.0 g | ||
| Protein | 3.5 g | 7% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 52 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 1.3 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 671 mg | 14% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
