Yuca 101: What Is Yuca?

WHAT IS YUCA?

Yuca, commonly known as cassava or manioc (not to be confused with yucca), is one of the world’s most versatile vegetables. Use it fried, boiled, or mashed, yuca is a nutty-flavored starch tuber native to South America that is also found in Asia and parts of Africa. Together with other tropical root vegetables like yam, taro, and, most notably, the potato, it is an indispensable part of the carbohydrate diet for many.

Yuca is a major source of calories in the tropics and is considered a main food staple for millions. Because it is so drought-tolerant, it's become a popular crop to harvest in marginal countries that lack soil.

NUTRITION
According to a scientific analysis, yuca is considered to be a good source of resistant starch, which helps support a healthy digestive system. Because of its high carbohydrate content, yuca is also a good source of energy for those who are engaged in extraneous physical activities, like sports. This root vegetable is also high in calcium, dietary fiber, and potassium.*

YUCA AND BEYOND
When ground down into a flour-like powder, yuca also behaves similarly to wheat which can be used in various baking forms. This is becoming increasingly popular due to paleo and gluten-free diets.

“Cassava (yuca) starch goes even further in that it can help to create a smooth consistency and can, in a small way, help to mimic gluten. It’s not nearly as ‘glue-like’ as gluten, but it helps when formulating gluten-free baked goods. It can also be added to help thicken foods such as sauces, yogurts, and ice cream.”

Vietnamese Cassava Cake feat. Tio Jorge® Yuca

HOW TO EAT/PREPARE YUCA
Traditionally, yuca can take up to half an hour to prepare and cook. Here at MIC Food®, we are helping chefs, restaurants, industrial kitchens, retail brands, delis, and others in the food industry rethink their menus and increase appeal among ethnic and mainstream consumers alike. We provide a variety of yuca products that come peeled and cut, ready-to-heat, and serve, saving you hours of prep time so you can focus on what matters the most: making every meal memorable. Ask Our Chef about how you can incorporate yuca into your menu!
 
Hungry for more? Check out our recipe library, which highlights how versatile yuca really is!
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Related Articles: Yuca vs Yucca

Sources:
1. https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/why-yuca-should-love-cassava_us_5976529fe4b0c6616f7ce44b
2. http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0101-20612014000200012
3. http://www.fao.org/docrep/u8480e/U8480E07.HT
4. http://www.specialtyproduce.com/produce/Yuca_Root_2008.php