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Yucca: |
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Yucca, or
Cassava, is a very starchy root very similar in size and
exterior texture to the malanga. The flesh of the yucca,
within the outer bark skin, is a white-linen color, and
has a dense texture. The yucca is commonly used in
tropical countries; much like the potato is used in
temperate climates regions.
Yucca is typically deep-fried as fritters or as chips.
Cubans commonly refer to this method of preparation as "yuquitas"
and douse them with garlic and "Mojo Criollo", Spanish
Barbecue sauce for a delightful side dish. Yucca can
also be prepared mashed, baked, boiled, or sautéed. |
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Chayote: |
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Also known
as the Vegetable Pear and the Mirliton, this vegetable
is a member of the cucurbit family. The fruit is light
green in color and pear shaped. The fruit is produced on
vigorous growing vines that are cold sensitive. |
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Chayote can
be very simply prepared, peeled, cut into quarters,
steamed, drained, buttered and seasoned with fresh lemon
or lime juice. Other possibilities include using it in
place of potatoes for a unique chilled salad, marinated
in vinaigrette dressing: combining with other vegetables
in a fresh vegetable stew; stuffing with ground meat;
serving au gratin, creamed, or breaded and fried.
Chayote invites the cook's imagination with discovery of
its versatility |
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Malanga: |
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Malanga is popular
in the tropics as the potato is in the United States
With its similarity in size and shape to the taro root,
the two are often confused. Malanga has an unusual
flavor. Some have likened it to black walnuts or a musty
earthiness. The texture of cooked malanga is
surprisingly smooth, like cooked black beans combined
with boiled new potatoes. |
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Malanga is good in
soups, chips and fritters. Do not overcook. |
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Yams: |
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Shaped like
a sweet potato, yams have dark brown or tan skin, with a
creamy or yellow flesh that has nutty flavor. Also known
as ñame. Available year – round, they are at home
growing in tropical climates, primarily in South
America, and the Caribbean. Yams contain more natural
sugar than sweet potatoes and higher moisture content. |
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