Discover the delightful fusion of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients with this Mediterranean Diet Crispy Fried Yucca recipe! Perfectly golden and irresistibly crispy, yucca (cassava) root is first boiled to tender perfection, then pan-fried in heart-healthy extra virgin olive oil for a crunchy exterior. This dish is elevated with a zesty lemon-garlic drizzle, fragrant oregano, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a refreshing Mediterranean twist. Itβs a delicious, gluten-free side dish or snack that pairs beautifully with grilled proteins or a fresh salad. Quick to prepare and loaded with flavor, this recipe will bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table while sticking to health-conscious cooking principles.
Begin by peeling the yucca root carefully to remove the tough, woody outer layer. Slice the peeled yucca into 3-inch sections, then halve each section, and cut away the fibrous core.
Rinse the yucca pieces in cold water and set them aside.
Bring a pot with 4 cups of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the yucca pieces. Boil the yucca for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but not falling apart.
Drain the yucca and allow it to cool slightly until it's cool enough to handle. Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel.
In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the boiled yucca pieces into the skillet, being cautious to not overcrowd the pan (you may have to do this in batches).
Fry the yucca pieces for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the yucca and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, and juice of one lemon. Drizzle this lemon-garlic mixture over the fried yucca.
Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Calories |
2450 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 115.1 g | 148% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.0 g | 85% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2523 mg | 110% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 355.7 g | 129% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.1 g | 68% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.0 g | ||
| Protein | 14.4 g | 29% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 266 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 4.4 mg | 24% | |
| Potassium | 2668 mg | 57% | |
*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.