5 tasty ways to enjoy cassava
What's the story
Cassava, a staple in various African nations, is a versatile root vegetable that can be transformed into several vegetarian dishes. Famous for its ability to grow in diverse climates, cassava is packed with carbohydrates and provides essential nutrients. Here are five delightful vegetarian dishes made from cassava that highlight its culinary versatility and cultural significance across Africa.
Fufu Delight
Cassava fufu: A traditional staple
Cassava fufu is a favorite dish, relished throughout West Africa. The dish is made by boiling and pounding cassava into a smooth, dough-like texture. Usually served with soups or stews, fufu makes for an amazing side dish to all flavors. Its neutral flavor profile makes it suitable to combine with spicy or savory dishes, making it a staple in many traditional recipes.
Gari goodness
Gari: The versatile grain
Gari is prepared by fermenting and drying grated cassava into tiny granules. This versatile ingredient can be used in a multitude of ways, be it soaking them in water for a quick meal or using them as the base for porridge. In certain regions, gari is mixed with sugar and milk for breakfast or served with beans and vegetables for lunch or dinner.
Leafy stew
Cassava leaves stew: A nutritious dish
Cassava leaves stew is a healthy dish widely eaten in Central Africa. The leaves are simmered with onions, tomatoes, spices, etc., to prepare a tasty stew generally eaten with rice or other starches such as plantains. Loaded with vitamins A and C, this dish not just fills one's stomach but also nourishes it.
Sweet tapioca
Tapioca pudding: A sweet treat
If you're looking for a sweet way to relish cassava's versatility, opt for tapioca pudding. Prepared from tapioca pearls made from cassava starch, this dessert mixes milk (or coconut milk), sugar, and vanilla extract to create a creamy delight that's loved by many all over the continent. It is often topped with fruits such as mangoes or bananas for added flavor.
Crispy chips
Cassava chips: A crunchy snack
Cassava chips are thinly sliced pieces of the root vegetable fried to crispy, golden brown perfection. This is done through a deep frying process similar to the potato chips preparation method popularly known across the world today. Seasoned with salt and spices, these crunchy snacks make a satisfying alternative to the regular potato-based options available in the markets worldwide today.