Crispy Yuca Tots (Cassava Tots)
These homemade yuca tots are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and made with just a handful of ingredients. Serve them with cilantro garlic sauce for dipping or top them with pulled pork for a fun appetizer!
Ingredients
- 2 medium yuca roots, peeled and cut into chunks (approximately 2 pounds before peeling, estimated)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Neutral oil, for frying
Instructions
- Boil the yuca. Add the peeled yuca chunks to a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 20-30 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain thoroughly and let cool slightly.
- Mash the yuca. Remove and discard the tough, fibrous core from the center of each piece. Transfer the cooked yuca to a large bowl and mash until mostly smooth.
- Season and shape. Add the cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and shape into small cylinders resembling tater tots. If the mixture is too soft to hold its shape, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
- Fry the tots. Heat about 1/2 inch of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Working in batches, fry the yuca tots for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Drain and serve. Transfer the tots to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain. Serve warm with cilantro garlic sauce for dipping.
Notes
Fresh or frozen yuca: Both work for this recipe. If using frozen yuca, follow the package instructions for cooking. Always peel fresh yuca completely and cook thoroughly before eating.
Remove the fibrous core: Yuca has a tough, woody center that should be removed before mashing.
Drain well: Excess moisture can make the tots difficult to shape. Let the cooked yuca drain thoroughly before mashing.
Make ahead: You can shape the tots ahead of time and refrigerate them, covered, until ready to fry.
Serving suggestions: Enjoy with cilantro garlic sauce, ranch dressing, or topped with BBQ pulled pork.
Serving: 1serving, Calories: 335kcal, Carbohydrates: 80g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 1g, Saturated Fat: 0.2g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g, Sodium: 610mg, Potassium: 556mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 3g, Vitamin A: 28IU, Vitamin C: 42mg, Calcium: 34mg, Iron: 1mg
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