Steamed Yuca
Roots
Nutri-ScoreB

Steamed Yuca

Manihot esculenta

Clinical Encyclopedia

Steamed yuca, also known as cassava, is a starchy root vegetable rich in carbohydrates and provides a good source of energy. It is gluten-free and can be a versatile ingredient in various dishes.

Also known as:
Cassava (Global)Manihot (Scientific)
Scientific NameManihot esculenta
Region of OriginSouth America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories160 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber1.8g
Total39.9g
Protein
1.5g(4%)
Fats
0.3g(1%)
Carbohydrates
38.1g(95%)

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%)
Folate18 mcg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin E: 0.1 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Potassium271 mg (6%)
Calcium30 mg (2%)
Iron0.6 mg (3%)
Magnesium25 mg (6%)
Phosphorus34 mg (5%)
Zinc0.3 mg (3%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in carbohydrates, steamed yuca provides a quick source of energy, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
Contains dietary fiber which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Excessive consumption of yuca can lead to cyanide poisoning if not properly prepared. Always ensure it is cooked thoroughly.

How to Prepare & Consume

To prepare steamed yuca, peel the root, cut it into chunks, and steam until tender. It can be served as a side dish or incorporated into various recipes.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

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

How to Store

Store yuca in a cool, dry place. Once cut, refrigerate in an airtight container.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

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

Medicinal Properties
Digestive aidEnergy booster
Main Applications
Used as a staple food in many tropical regions
Commonly used in gluten-free recipes
Bioactive Compounds
Saponins

May have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

How to Consume
Steamed, Mashed, Fried, Flour
Did you know?

"Yuca is a major source of carbohydrates in many tropical countries and is often used as a substitute for potatoes."

Myths vs Realities

MythYuca is the same as potato.
RealityYuca and potato are different; yuca is a root vegetable with a higher carbohydrate content.
MythYou can eat yuca raw.
RealityRaw yuca is toxic and must be cooked to be safe for consumption.
MythYuca is unhealthy because it's high in carbs.
RealityYuca provides energy and is gluten-free, making it a healthy option when consumed in moderation.

Healthy Recipes

Steamed Yuca with Avocado Salsa

This vibrant dish features steamed yuca paired with a fresh avocado salsa, making it a nutritious and flavorful meal option.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups steamed yuca, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine diced avocado, tomato, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Gently mix the ingredients to create the salsa.
  3. 3. Serve the steamed yuca topped with the avocado salsa and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Yuca and Black Bean Salad

A hearty salad combining steamed yuca and black beans, perfect for a filling yet healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups steamed yuca, diced
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the steamed yuca, black beans, bell pepper, corn, and cilantro.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Spicy Yuca Fries with Garlic Aioli

These crispy steamed yuca fries are seasoned with spices and served with a creamy garlic aioli for a healthy snack.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups steamed yuca, cut into fry shapes
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. 2. Toss the yuca fries with olive oil, paprika, cayenne, and salt, then spread them on a baking sheet.
  3. 3. Bake for 25-30 minutes until crispy, while mixing Greek yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice for the aioli.

Yuca and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A colorful stir-fry featuring steamed yuca and a medley of vegetables, perfect for a quick and nutritious dinner.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups steamed yuca, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat and add ginger.
  2. 2. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot, stirring for 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Add steamed yuca and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 3 minutes, then garnish with sesame seeds.

Yuca and Chickpea Curry

A rich and flavorful curry made with steamed yuca and chickpeas, offering a satisfying and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups steamed yuca, cubed
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add curry powder and stir for 1 minute, then add chickpeas and coconut milk.
  3. 3. Stir in the yuca and simmer for 15 minutes, garnishing with cilantro before serving.

Yuca and Spinach Fritters

Crispy and nutritious fritters made with steamed yuca and fresh spinach, perfect as a snack or appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups steamed yuca, mashed
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix mashed yuca, spinach, onion, flour, egg, salt, and pepper until combined.
  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 Mango Salad with Lime Dressing

A refreshing salad that combines steamed yuca with sweet mango and a zesty lime dressing.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups steamed yuca, diced
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped mint
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine yuca, mango, red onion, and mint.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, and salt.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Yuca and Roasted Vegetable Bowl

A nourishing bowl filled with steamed yuca and a variety of roasted vegetables, perfect for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups steamed yuca, cubed
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Roast vegetables for 25 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Serve roasted vegetables over steamed yuca and garnish with fresh parsley.

Yuca Pancakes with Maple Syrup

Delicious and fluffy pancakes made with steamed yuca, perfect for a healthy breakfast option.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups steamed yuca, mashed
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix mashed yuca, almond flour, eggs, baking powder, and vanilla until smooth.
  2. 2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour batter to form pancakes.
  3. 3. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown, serving with maple syrup.

Yuca and Lentil Soup

A hearty and nutritious soup featuring steamed yuca and lentils, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups steamed yuca, diced
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and carrots until soft.
  2. 2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper, bringing to a boil.
  3. 3. Stir in the yuca and simmer for 20 minutes until lentils are tender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is yuca safe to eat raw?

No, raw yuca contains cyanogenic glycosides which can be toxic. It must be cooked properly.

How do you store steamed yuca?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can yuca be frozen?

Yes, cooked yuca can be frozen for up to 6 months.

What are the health benefits of yuca?

Yuca is high in carbohydrates, provides energy, and is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

How can I incorporate yuca into my diet?

Yuca can be mashed, fried, or used in soups and stews.

Is yuca high in calories?

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

What nutrients are found in yuca?

Yuca is rich in carbohydrates, fiber, and contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

Can yuca help with weight loss?

While yuca is high in calories, its fiber content can help with satiety, but portion control is important.