Yucca con Mojo is a beloved Cuban dish that features tender boiled yucca (cassava) drizzled with a vibrant garlic sauce known as mojo. This dish combines the starchy, slightly sweet flavor of yucca with the tangy, aromatic notes of the mojo sauce, which typically includes olive oil, lime juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Versatile and simple to prepare, Yucca con Mojo can be enjoyed as a side dish with roasted meats or as a light meal on its own.
Originating from the indigenous peoples of South America, yucca has been a staple food for centuries. In Cuba, Yucca con Mojo has become a traditional dish often served during family gatherings and celebrations. The preparation of mojo sauce reflects the vibrant culinary culture of the Caribbean, where garlic, citrus, and olive oil are commonly used to enhance the flavors of various dishes. Over the years, this dish has transcended cultural boundaries, becoming a favorite in Cuban cuisine and beyond.
Ingredients:
- 1–2 lbs of yucca, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
- ½ cup of olive oil
- ¼ cup of fresh lime juice
- 8 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp of salt
- ¼ tsp of black pepper
- ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the yucca and cut it into 2-inch pieces. Rinse well to remove any dirt.
2. In a large pot, bring enough water to cover the yucca to a boil. Add the yucca and boil for 20-30 minutes, or until fork-tender.
3. While the yucca cooks, prepare the mojo sauce by whisking together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
4. Once cooked, drain the yucca and place it on a serving platter.
5. Drizzle the mojo sauce over the yucca, ensuring each piece is well coated. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve hot or at room temperature.
Notes:
- Yucca can be found in most grocery stores in the produce section.
- Be sure to peel thoroughly, as the skin can be tough.
- Boil until fork-tender for the best texture.
- Mojo sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Value:
1. 1–2 lbs of yucca, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
- Calories: Approximately 330-660 (depending on weight)
- Carbohydrates: 78-156 g
- Protein: 2-4 g
- Fat: 0.5-1 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C
- Minerals: Good source of potassium, magnesium, and folate
- Nutritional benefit: High in carbohydrates and dietary fiber, aids digestion and stabilizes blood sugar levels.
2. ½ cup of olive oil
- Calories: 960
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 108 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin E and K
- Minerals: Trace amounts of iron and calcium
- Nutritional benefit: Source of healthy monounsaturated fats, supports heart health, and has antioxidant properties.
3. ¼ cup of fresh lime juice
- Calories: 16
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: High in vitamin C
- Minerals: Small amounts of potassium
- Nutritional benefit: Provides antioxidants and boosts the immune system due to high vitamin C content.
4. 8 garlic cloves, minced
- Calories: 36
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 4 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Good source of vitamins B6 and C
- Minerals: Contains manganese and calcium
- Nutritional benefit: Known for antibacterial and antiviral properties, supports heart health and immune function.
5. 1 tsp of salt
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 2,300 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: 0
- Minerals: Provides sodium
- Nutritional benefit: Essential for fluid balance and muscle function; should be consumed in moderation.
6. ¼ tsp of black pepper
- Calories: 2
- Carbohydrates: 0.5 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Small amounts of vitamin K
- Minerals: Trace amounts of iron
- Nutritional benefit: Aids digestion and enhances nutrient absorption from other foods.
7. ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Calories: 1
- Carbohydrates: 0.2 g
- Protein: 0.1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K
- Minerals: Contains potassium and calcium
- Nutritional benefit: Adds flavor and antioxidants, supports overall health and digestion.
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