Cassava, a versatile root vegetable, is commonly boiled, steamed, or fried as a side dish. Originating from South America, it has a rich history in indigenous cuisines and has spread globally for its culinary adaptability.

Ingredients:

- Cassava root

- Water

- Salt (optional)

Method:

1. Peel the cassava root and cut it into manageable pieces.

2. Rinse the pieces thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.

3. Place the cassava pieces in a pot and cover them with water.

4. Add a pinch of salt to the water if desired.

5. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.

6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the cassava for about 20-30 minutes, or until fork-tender.

7. Remove the cassava from the water and drain well.

8. Serve the cassava hot as a side dish, or let it cool and use it in other recipes as desired.

Nutrition Value:

1. Cassava root:

 - Calories: Approximately 160 calories per 1 cup (about 206 grams) of boiled cassava.

 - Carbohydrates: High in carbohydrates, providing about 38 grams per cup.

 - Protein: Minimal, with less than 2 grams per cup.

 - Fat: Very low in fat, typically less than 1 gram per cup.

 - Sodium: Naturally low in sodium.

 - Cholesterol: Cholesterol-free.

 - Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C and folate. Also contains small amounts of vitamin K, thiamine, and riboflavin.

 - Minerals: Good source of minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium.

 - Nutritional benefits: Cassava is a starchy root vegetable that provides energy from carbohydrates and essential nutrients like vitamin C and folate. It also offers minerals important for bone health and muscle function.

2. Water:

 - Calories: No calories.

 - Carbohydrates: No carbohydrates.

 - Protein: No protein.

 - Fat: No fat.

 - Sodium: No sodium.

 - Cholesterol: Cholesterol-free.

 - Vitamins: No significant vitamin content.

 - Minerals: No significant mineral content.

 - Nutritional benefits: Water is essential for hydration and bodily functions. It helps regulate body temperature, aids in digestion, and supports nutrient absorption.

3. Salt (optional):

 - Calories: No calories.

 - Carbohydrates: No carbohydrates.

 - Protein: No protein.

 - Fat: No fat.

 - Sodium: Provides sodium, with about 2,300 milligrams per teaspoon of salt.

 - Cholesterol: Cholesterol-free.

 - Vitamins: No significant vitamin content.

 - Minerals: Consists mainly of sodium chloride.

 - Nutritional benefits: Salt adds flavor to food and can enhance the taste of cassava. However, excessive consumption of sodium may contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues, so it should be used in moderation.