How to Make the Perfect Yuca Fries
Cuban · Easy · 40 min · 4 servings
Yuca Fries are crispy golden sticks made from boiled and fried yuca root, a beloved Cuban street snack with a satisfying starchy interior and crunchy exterior. They are typically served with a zesty garlic mojo dipping sauce that elevates every bite.
Why this recipe works
This Yuca Fries recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 40 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 290 calories with 3g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 lbs fresh or frozen yuca peeled
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
- 1 tsp salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Boil the Yuca
Cut the peeled yuca into thick fry-shaped sticks about 3 inches long. Place in a large pot, cover with salted water, and boil for 15 to 20 minutes until tender but not falling apart. Drain well and pat completely dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Mojo Sauce
Whisk together the minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Let the mojo sauce sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Fry the Yuca
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the yuca sticks in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per batch until they are deeply golden and crispy on all sides. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Drain the fried yuca on a paper towel-lined plate and immediately season with salt while still hot. Serve the fries alongside the garlic mojo dipping sauce and an extra wedge of lime.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- fresh yuca → frozen pre-cut yuca which saves significant prep time
- lime juice in mojo → sour orange juice for a more traditional Cuban flavor
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not drying the yuca thoroughly after boiling which causes dangerous oil splatter during frying
- Skipping the boiling step and frying raw yuca which results in undercooked hard centers
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 290 calories, 3g protein, 52g carbs, 10g fat, 3g fiber.
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