Boil & Fry Cassava is a quintessential Trinidadian dish that holds a special place in the hearts of those who love Trini cuisine. Known for its comforting simplicity and incredible versatility, this recipe transforms humble cassava into a flavorful side dish. Whether paired with rich curries, hearty stews, or enjoyed on its own, Boil & Fry Cassava is a healthy, gluten-free option that fits seamlessly into any meal. Using fresh or frozen cassava, you’ll find this dish both easy to prepare and delightfully satisfying.
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Other Names for Cassava
Cassava is known by many names around the world. Here are some examples:
- Yuca: Commonly used in Latin American countries like Mexico and Cuba.
- Manioc: Popular in countries such as France and certain parts of Africa.
- Mandioca: The term used in Brazil and Portugal.
- Tapioca Root: Often referred to in India and Southeast Asia.
- Gari: A name for processed cassava in Nigeria and other West African nations.
- Bitter Cassava or Sweet Cassava: Differentiates varieties in the Caribbean and South America.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, especially curries and stews.
- Healthy and Nutritious: A clean recipe that is naturally gluten-free and packed with fiber.
- Customizable Spice Levels: Adjust the hot pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients You Will Need
- Cassava: The star of the dish. Choose fresh cassava for a firmer texture or frozen cassava for convenience.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the boiled cassava.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps in the stir-frying to distribute the flavor.
- Onion: Provides sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Hot Pepper: Adds a spicy kick. Adjust to taste.
- Culantro or Green Seasoning: Infuses the dish with a burst of Caribbean flavor.
- Pimento Pepper (optional): Adds flavor and a touch of color.
- Butter: Adds another layer of flavor to the fried cassava.
- Salt and Black Pepper: For seasoning to taste.
Enjoy Boil & Fry Cassava with these Popular Favorites
- Trinidad Steamed Fish
- Coconut Curry Fish
- Curry Fish with Mango – Pre Fry Method
- Stewed Fish
- Mummy’s Curry Chicken
- Curry Chicken with Pigeon Peas
- Curry Duck
- Geera Pork
- Steamed Salmon
- Simple Stewed Canned Red Beans and Stir fry Cabbage and Tomatoes(Vegetarian Option)
- Tomatoes and Saltfish
- Smoked Herring and Tomatoes
- Stewed Chicken or Stewed Wings(make with sauce)
- Stewed Pork or Stewed Lamb
Health and Nutrition Information
Cassava is a root vegetable rich in carbohydrates, making it an excellent energy source. It’s also high in dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion. This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for various diets:
- Perfect for Gluten-Free Diets: Naturally free from gluten, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Suitable for Vegetarian Diets: Contains no animal products apart from optional butter, which can be substituted with vegan alternatives.
- Low in Cholesterol: Made with heart-healthy olive oil.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Cassava: Fresh cassava has a firmer texture, but frozen cassava is a great time-saver.
- Even Cooking: Cassava may cook unevenly; test each piece with a fork and cook until all are tender.
- Enhance the Flavor: If you green seasoning does not contain enough garlic, add more to the sauté for a richer flavor.
- Texture Options: For a creamier dish, lightly mash the cassava during the frying stage.
Variations
- Herbaceous Twist: Add chopped scallion, culantro, parsley or cilantro for a fresh, bright finish.
- Veggies: Include chopped bell peppers & grated carrots in the sauté.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese into the cassava while hot.
- Breadfruit: Use breadfruit instead of the cassava if you can find it! This recipe was inspired by the boil & fry breadfruit in the accompanying video, but since I cannot access breadfruit, this recipe was created.
Boil & Fry Cassava
Ingredients
- 2 lbs cassava peeled, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tsp salt for boiling
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion chopped
- Hot pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp minced culantro or green seasoning
- 2 pimento peppers chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut cassava into 2-inch thick rounds. Peel and halve each piece, then remove the thick stem from the center.Alternatively, buy frozen, peeled cassava to save time. just defrost, cut into small pieces, remove string from the center and boil until fully cooked.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, bring water to a boil over high heat. Add salt and cassava. Cook for 10-15 minutes, until fork-tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sauté onion, hot pepper, and pimento peppers (if using) until the edges are golden brown.
- Stir in minced culantro or green seasoning and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Add the boiled cassava and butter. Stir-fry until the cassava is well coated. You may also choose to mash with a potato masher to break up any chunks and create a smoother texture.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Nutrition
Did You Love This Recipe? Leave a Rating and Comment!
If you tried this Boil & Fry Cassava recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Share your experience by leaving a comment and a 5-star rating on the recipe card above. Also, check out my YouTube channel for a step-by-step video of this recipe (however, made with breadfruit). Your feedback and support mean the world to me!
Questions or Concerns—Write Me!
If you have any questions, concerns, issues, or suggestions about this recipe or any other recipes, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below or reach out via email at [email protected]. I’d love to hear from you and am here to help make your cooking experience as enjoyable and successful as possible. Happy cooking!
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A Trinidadian culinary connoisseur sharing recipes from Trinidad and the Caribbean with a modern twist.