What is cassava?
Cassava, also called manioc or yuca root, is a plant belonging to the euphorbiaceae family. This tuber originates from South and Central America, where it holds an important place in the diet. It is also found in the diets of several countries in Asia and Africa. There are two main types of cassava: sweet cassava and bitter cassava. What differentiates them is their content of hydrogen cyanide, a toxic substance. Sweet cassava contains little hydrogen cyanide, whereas bitter cassava contains a high amount and requires special treatment before it is edible. Finally, cassava has a starchy flesh that is generally white in color and a brownish peel.
What is the nutritional value of cassava?
- Cassava is a source of vitamin C, folate, and manganese.
- It also contains fiber, magnesium, and copper.
- It is rich in carbohydrates and starch.
- Cassava and its derivatives (e.g., tapioca, flour) are naturally free of gluten and can therefore be part of the diet for people with celiac disease.
How to prepare cassava?
Sweet cassava
- It is recommended to remove the central vein of the cassava, which is more fibrous.
- Rich in carbohydrates, sweet cassava is consumed and prepared like most starchy foods, especially potatoes.
- Indeed, it is eaten boiled in water or roasted. Cooking helps reduce the cyanide content to levels considered non-toxic.
- Once boiled, it can be fried, sautéed, mashed, or cooked in a gratin.
- It can also be added to soups, stews, and braises.
- It can accompany meats, fish, and poultry.
- The taste of cassava is rather neutral and resembles that of potatoes and chestnuts. Adding herbs and spices helps enhance its subtle flavor.
Bitter cassava
- If not prepared properly, bitter cassava can be toxic. Before it is edible, bitter cassava must be grated, soaked in water for an extended period, then cooked. These steps help reduce its cyanide content.
- Once prepared, bitter cassava can be used in various recipes, such as cakes, muffins, etc.
- It is from bitter cassava that tapioca is obtained, notably used to prepare puddings, and tapioca flour.
References
- https://www.passeportsante.net/fr/Nutrition/EncyclopedieAliments/Fiche.aspx?doc=manioc_nu#:~:text=Les%20bienfaits%20du%20manioc,r%C3%A9gulateur%20sur%20le%20transit%20intestinal
- https://ici.radio-canada.ca/mordu/ingredients/11/manioc
- https://www.jaimefruitsetlegumes.ca/fr/aliments/manioc/
- https://www.soscuisine.com/recette/pouding-tapioca
- https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manioc
- https://inspection.canada.ca/salubrite-alimentaire-pour-les-consommateurs/fiches-de-renseignements/produits-et-risques/fruits-et-legumes/toxines-naturelles/fra/1332276569292/1332276685336