Raw Cassava
Roots
Nutri-ScoreA

Raw Cassava

Manihot esculenta

Clinical Encyclopedia

Raw cassava is a starchy root vegetable that is a staple food in many tropical regions. It is rich in carbohydrates and provides a good source of energy.

Also known as:
YucaManihot
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%)
Folate27 µg (7%)
Vitamin K1.8 µg (2%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium30 mg (2%)
Iron0.3 mg (2%)
Magnesium21 mg (5%)
Phosphorus27 mg (4%)
Potassium271 mg (6%)
Zinc0.2 mg (2%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Manganese0.2 mg (10%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0.6 µg

Health Benefits

Raw cassava is a gluten-free carbohydrate source, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
It contains resistant starch, which can act as a prebiotic, promoting gut health and improving digestion.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Raw cassava contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when consumed raw. Proper cooking is essential to eliminate these compounds.

How to Prepare & Consume

Cassava should be peeled, washed, and cooked thoroughly before consumption to ensure safety and improve digestibility.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose firm, unblemished cassava roots with a 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
AntioxidantAnti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Energy source
Gluten-free flour alternative
Bioactive Compounds
Resistant Starch

Acts as a prebiotic, promoting healthy gut bacteria.

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

"Cassava is the third-largest source of carbohydrates in the tropics, after rice and maize."

Myths vs Realities

MythCassava is safe to eat raw.
RealityRaw cassava contains cyanogenic compounds that can be toxic if not cooked.
MythAll cassava varieties are the same.
RealityThere are sweet and bitter varieties of cassava; bitter varieties contain higher levels of toxins.
MythCassava is low in calories.
RealityCassava is high in calories, primarily from carbohydrates.

Healthy Recipes

Raw Cassava Salad with Citrus Dressing

A refreshing salad featuring raw cassava, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty citrus dressing that enhances the natural flavors.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups raw cassava, peeled and grated
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the grated cassava, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss well, and serve chilled.

Spicy Raw Cassava Wraps

Delicious and nutritious wraps made with raw cassava, filled with spicy vegetables and a creamy avocado spread.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups raw cassava, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, mashed
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix the mashed avocado with lime juice, chili powder, and salt to create a spread.
  2. 2. Lay out the cassava slices and spread a layer of the avocado mixture on each slice.
  3. 3. Top with mixed bell peppers and shredded carrots, then roll them up tightly and serve.

Raw Cassava and Mango Smoothie

A tropical smoothie blending raw cassava and ripe mango for a creamy, nutrient-packed drink that’s perfect for breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup raw cassava, peeled and chopped
  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup coconut water
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • Ice cubes
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine the raw cassava, mango, banana, coconut water, and honey.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding ice cubes to reach your desired consistency.
  3. 3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Raw Cassava Sushi Rolls

Innovative sushi rolls made with raw cassava instead of rice, filled with fresh vegetables and served with a soy dipping sauce.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups raw cassava, peeled and grated
  • 1 cup cucumber, julienned
  • 1 cup carrots, julienned
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Nori sheets
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. Spread a thin layer of grated cassava onto a nori sheet, leaving space at the edges.
  2. 2. Layer cucumber, carrots, and avocado on top of the cassava.
  3. 3. Roll tightly, slice into pieces, and serve with soy sauce.

Raw Cassava and Beetroot Tacos

Vibrant tacos featuring raw cassava tortillas filled with roasted beetroot and fresh greens, topped with a tangy yogurt sauce.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups raw cassava, peeled and grated
  • 1 cup cooked beetroot, diced
  • 1 cup mixed greens
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Combine grated cassava with a pinch of salt and form into small tortillas.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Fill each cassava tortilla with beetroot, mixed greens, and drizzle with yogurt sauce before serving.

Raw Cassava Energy Bites

Nutritious energy bites made with raw cassava, nuts, and dried fruits, perfect for a quick snack or post-workout fuel.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup raw cassava, peeled and grated
  • 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
  • 1/2 cup dates, pitted and chopped
  • 1/4 cup coconut flakes
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix grated cassava, chopped almonds, dates, coconut flakes, chia seeds, and honey until well combined.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
  3. 3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Raw Cassava and Spinach Fritters

Crispy fritters made with raw cassava and fresh spinach, served with a tangy yogurt dip for a healthy appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups raw cassava, peeled and grated
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup chickpea flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine grated cassava, spinach, onion, egg, chickpea flour, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Heat oil in a pan and drop spoonfuls of the mixture to form fritters.
  3. 3. Fry until golden brown on both sides, then drain on paper towels and serve with yogurt dip.

Raw Cassava and Avocado Toast

A healthy twist on classic avocado toast, featuring raw cassava slices topped with creamy avocado and fresh herbs.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups raw cassava, peeled and sliced
  • 1 avocado, mashed
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Lightly steam the cassava slices until tender but still firm.
  2. 2. Spread mashed avocado mixed with lemon juice, salt, and pepper on each cassava slice.
  3. 3. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Raw Cassava and Pineapple Ceviche

A refreshing ceviche made with raw cassava, pineapple, and lime, offering a tropical twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups raw cassava, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup pineapple, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine diced cassava, pineapple, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, and salt.
  2. 2. Mix well and let it marinate for 15 minutes before serving.
  3. 3. Serve chilled as a light appetizer.

Raw Cassava and Zucchini Noodles

A healthy pasta alternative made with spiralized raw cassava and zucchini, tossed in a light pesto sauce.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups raw cassava, spiralized
  • 1 cup zucchini, spiralized
  • 1/4 cup basil pesto
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine spiralized cassava and zucchini.
  2. 2. Add basil pesto, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and toss until well coated.
  3. 3. Serve immediately as a refreshing pasta dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is raw cassava safe to eat?

No, raw cassava contains cyanogenic glycosides that can be toxic if not properly cooked.

How do you prepare cassava?

Cassava should be peeled, boiled, or fried to eliminate toxins before consumption.

What are the health benefits of cassava?

Cassava is a good source of carbohydrates and provides energy, as well as dietary fiber.

Can cassava be used in gluten-free diets?

Yes, cassava is naturally gluten-free and can be used as a flour substitute.

How should cassava be stored?

Store raw cassava in a cool, dry place and consume it within a few days to prevent spoilage.

What nutrients are found in cassava?

Cassava is primarily composed of carbohydrates, with small amounts of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Is cassava high in calories?

Yes, cassava is relatively high in calories due to its carbohydrate content.

Can you eat cassava leaves?

Yes, cassava leaves are edible and are often cooked as a vegetable, but they should be prepared properly.