Get ready to transport your kitchen to the vibrant streets of Latin America with these irresistible Bolas Yuca Cassava Balls! These golden, crispy spheres are more than just a side dish - they're a culinary adventure that combines the creamy, earthy texture of yuca with melted cheese in a perfectly breaded package. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply craving a unique comfort food, these cassava balls are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Latin American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups yuca, cooked and mashed
- 1/2 cup cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the yuca by peeling and boiling until soft. Drain and mash thoroughly until smooth and free of lumps, allowing it to cool to room temperature.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed yuca, shredded cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Using clean hands, form the mixture into small round balls approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. Ensure each ball is compact and holds together well.
- Spread breadcrumbs on a flat plate. Gently roll each yuca ball in the breadcrumbs, ensuring complete and even coating.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the balls.
- Carefully place the breaded yuca balls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Remove the fried balls using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Let the cassava balls cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Optionally, serve with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or salsa.
Tips
- Yuca Preparation is Key: Ensure your yuca is completely smooth when mashed to avoid lumpy balls. Let it cool completely before mixing to help the mixture hold together.
- Temperature Matters: Use a cooking thermometer to maintain oil at 350°F for perfect, even browning. Too low, and the balls will be greasy; too high, and they'll burn on the outside.
- Batch Frying: Don't overcrowd the pan. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure each ball gets crispy and golden.
- Cheese Selection: Use a melting cheese like mozzarella or queso fresco for the best texture and flavor.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the yuca balls in advance and refrigerate them before frying. Just bring to room temperature before cooking.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a zesty dipping sauce like garlic aioli, chimichurri, or a spicy salsa to elevate the flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 295kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 7g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
