Ah, cassava! This humble root vegetable has been a staple in my kitchen for as long as I can remember. Growing up, my family often gathered around the table for hearty meals that brought us closer together, and cassava was always a crowd favorite. It’s a versatile ingredient that’s perfect for creating comforting, satisfying dishes. Today, I’m excited to share a modern twist on a classic favorite: Air Fryer Cassava. This recipe brings all the warmth and goodness of traditional cassava, but with a crispy edge that your whole family will love. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and a few ingredients, you can have this dish ready in no time. Plus, the air fryer does all the heavy lifting! This means more time spent with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. The simplicity of this recipe makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or when you need a quick snack.
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Healthy Comfort Food: Using the air fryer means you get that delightful crunch without the excess oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying. The reduction in oil not only makes this dish lighter but also enhances the natural flavors of the cassava. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on taste.
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Family-Friendly: This is a dish that everyone from little ones to grandparents will enjoy. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. The crispy texture is appealing to kids, while the rich, comforting flavor satisfies adults. It’s an excellent way to introduce children to different types of vegetables in a fun and tasty way.
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Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily tweak the seasonings to suit your taste or mix in other spices for a different flavor profile. Consider adding cayenne for a spicy kick or a touch of cumin for an earthy note. You can even sprinkle some parmesan for a cheesy twist or drizzle with truffle oil for a gourmet touch.
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Everyday Ingredients: All you need are things you likely already have in your pantry, making this recipe both accessible and budget-friendly. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavor of the cassava to shine. It’s a dish that demonstrates how basic ingredients can come together to make something truly special.
The Recipe
Air Fryer Cassava
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 25 minutes
– Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
– Servings: 4
– Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cassava (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cassava: If you’re using fresh cassava, start by peeling and cutting it into 1-inch thick sticks. Make sure to remove the fibrous core, which can be tough and chewy. If using frozen cassava, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. Fresh cassava has a slightly nutty flavor, while frozen cassava can be more convenient for quick meals.
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Season the Cassava: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cassava sticks with olive oil, sea salt, paprika, and garlic powder. Toss them until they are evenly coated with the seasoning. This step ensures that every bite is full of flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your preference; even a dash of lemon zest can add a refreshing twist. You might also experiment with adding rosemary or thyme for a more aromatic profile.
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes. This helps the cassava start cooking immediately and evenly. Preheating is a step often skipped in air frying, but it makes a significant difference in the final texture. It ensures that the cassava develops a beautiful golden crust while remaining tender inside.
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Cook the Cassava: Arrange the cassava sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can prevent the cassava from cooking evenly. Cook them for 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. This is an opportunity to check on the seasoning and add more if desired. If you’re cooking a larger batch, consider doing it in batches to maintain the quality.
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Check for Doneness: Once the cassava is golden brown and crispy on the outside, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The cooling time allows the exterior to firm up, enhancing the crunchiness. This is also the perfect time to sprinkle some fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime juice for added zest.
Helpful Tip:
For extra crispiness, consider spraying the cassava with a light layer of cooking spray midway through cooking. It’s a simple trick for that perfect crunch! Additionally, flipping the cassava sticks halfway through cooking can help achieve even browning. If you like an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a bit more sea salt right after cooking.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Air Fryer: Your trusty companion for this recipe, delivering crispiness with less oil. If you don’t own one, a convection oven can be a good alternative, though cooking times may vary slightly. An air fryer is a great investment for anyone who loves fried foods but wants to eat healthier.
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Mixing Bowl: For tossing the cassava with seasonings. A large bowl ensures even coating and makes mixing a breeze. Having a bowl with a lid can also help, allowing you to shake the cassava sticks for even seasoning distribution.
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Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for prepping fresh cassava. A sharp knife will make peeling and cutting easier and safer. Consider using a non-slip cutting board for added safety.
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Tongs: Useful for removing the hot cassava from the air fryer safely. They can also be used to shake the basket midway through cooking. Tongs with silicone tips are ideal to prevent scratching the air fryer basket.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
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Cassava: This root vegetable is not just a comfort food staple; it’s also rich in carbohydrates, making it an excellent energy source. Additionally, it’s gluten-free, which is a plus for those with dietary restrictions. Cassava is also high in vitamin C, which supports immune function. Its mild flavor makes it a great canvas for various seasonings.
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Olive Oil: A healthier fat option that helps the cassava crisp up nicely while adding a subtle flavor. Olive oil is also known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Choosing extra virgin olive oil can enhance the dish with its robust flavor.
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Sea Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the cassava, making each bite satisfying. It’s less processed than table salt and contains trace minerals. Sea salt can also be used in moderation to reduce sodium intake compared to regular table salt.
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Paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and color, although optional, it can elevate the dish. Paprika is also rich in vitamins A and E, offering additional health benefits. There are various types of paprika, including sweet, smoked, and hot, each adding a unique dimension to your dish.
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Garlic Powder: Provides an aromatic depth that complements the cassava perfectly. It’s a convenient way to add garlic flavor without the hassle of peeling and chopping fresh garlic. Garlic powder is also a great way to introduce garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
What to Serve With This Dish
Air Fryer Cassava is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
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Grilled Chicken: The crispiness of the cassava complements the juicy tenderness of grilled chicken beautifully. The combination creates a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to your chicken can mirror the flavors in the cassava.
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Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with a citrus vinaigrette can balance the hearty nature of the cassava. Ingredients like arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber can add freshness and color to your plate. You might also consider adding some feta cheese or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
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Dipping Sauces: Serve with a side of aioli, spicy ketchup, or even a homemade guacamole for added flavor. Each sauce can bring a new dimension to the dish, making it even more enjoyable. Try a yogurt-based dip with herbs for a refreshing, creamy side.
Check out my Grilled Chicken Marinade and Simple Citrus Salad recipes for more ideas on what to pair with your cassava!
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store them:
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Refrigerate: Place the cooled cassava in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This method keeps the cassava fresh and ready for a quick reheat. Consider layering parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
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Reheat: To bring back the crispiness, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This is much more effective than microwaving, which can make the cassava soggy. You can also reheat them in the oven for a similar effect.
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Freeze: If you want to keep them longer, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer. This makes it easy to have a quick snack or side dish on hand. Label your freezer bags with the date to keep track of freshness.
For more tips on storing and reheating leftovers, check out this handy guide from Serious Eats.
Cooking for your family should be a joy, not a chore. This Air Fryer Cassava recipe is a testament to that philosophy, bringing ease, flavor, and warmth to your table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend, this dish is sure to become a family staple. So gather your loved ones, share this meal, and make some wonderful memories together. Enjoy, and happy cooking!
Air Fryer Cassava
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If using fresh cassava, peel and cut it into 1-inch thick sticks. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the cassava sticks with olive oil, salt, paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place the cassava sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Check for doneness; the cassava should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool for a few minutes before serving.