Are you ready to elevate your dining experience with a taste of Cuba? Yuca with Garlic Sauce is not just a dish; it's a delightful journey into the heart of Cuban cuisine, bursting with flavor and simplicity. Imagine tender yuca, perfectly cooked and drenched in a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil that will have your taste buds dancing! This recipe is not only quick to prepare—taking just 30 minutes from start to finish—but it also serves as a fantastic side dish that will impress your family and friends. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to bring the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to your table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs yuca, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash and peel the yuca, removing any tough outer skin and fibrous core. Cut the yuca into uniform chunks approximately 2-3 inches long to ensure even cooking.
- Place the yuca chunks in a large pot and cover completely with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance flavor during boiling.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and continue cooking for 15-20 minutes until the yuca becomes tender. Test doneness by piercing with a fork - the yuca should be soft but not falling apart.
- While the yuca is cooking, prepare the garlic sauce. Finely mince the garlic cloves using a sharp knife or garlic press to release maximum flavor.
- In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently, being careful not to burn the garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
- Once the yuca is cooked, drain thoroughly in a colander, shaking to remove excess water.
- Transfer the yuca to a serving platter and immediately pour the hot garlic oil over the top, ensuring even distribution.
- Sprinkle additional salt to taste and serve hot as a traditional Cuban side dish.
Tips
- Choose the Right Yuca: When selecting yuca, look for firm, unblemished roots. Avoid any that have dark spots or soft areas, as these may indicate spoilage.
- Uniform Chunks: Cut the yuca into uniform pieces (about 2-3 inches) to ensure even cooking. This will help each piece become perfectly tender without falling apart.
- Salt the Water: Adding a pinch of salt to the boiling water not only enhances the flavor of the yuca but also helps to draw out moisture for a better texture.
- Watch the Garlic: When sautéing the garlic, keep a close eye on it! Garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter, so stir constantly and remove it from heat as soon as it turns golden and fragrant.
- Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve the yuca hot right after drizzling the garlic sauce over it. This ensures that every bite is infused with that delicious garlic aroma.
- Pairing Suggestions: Yuca with Garlic Sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or even as a standalone dish. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 330kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
