Benefits and Advantages of yuca con mojo
Yuca con mojo is a beloved Cuban side dish praised for its simplicity and vibrant flavors, making it accessible to cooks of all levels. The recipe highlights boiled yuca root paired with a bright, garlicky citrus mojo sauce that enhances both taste and nutritional value. Naturally gluten-free and rich in dietary fiber, yuca aids digestion and promotes gut health. It also provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, while the fresh garlic, lime, and herbs in the mojo boost antioxidant intake and support immune function.
This dish suits various dietary preferences, including vegan and low-calorie diets, due to its wholesome ingredients and oil-based sauce with healthy fats. The combination of yuca’s creamy-yet-firm texture with the tangy, zesty mojo offers a delicious contrast that is both refreshing and satisfying. Its versatility makes yuca con mojo a perfect side for meats, seafood, or plant-based meals, and a flavorful addition to any Cuban or Caribbean-inspired menu.
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Essential Ingredients for yuca con mojo
- 2 lbs (about 900 g) yuca, peeled and cut into chunks (frozen yuca, thawed, may be substituted)
- 1 small white onion, thinly sliced (or 1 to 2 large red onions)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)
- 1/3 cup neutral oil (such as extra virgin olive oil or bacon grease)
- 1/4 cup sour orange juice (or a mix of fresh orange, lime, and lemon juice)
- Salt and black pepper to taste (start with approximately 1/4 teaspoon each)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish
- Optional spices: 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Optional mojo additions: 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns, 2 dried bay leaves, 1/4 cup white vinegar
This ingredient list emphasizes fresh, natural components essential to crafting authentic yuca con mojo. The yuca root is the starchy base, providing a gluten-free, nutrient-rich foundation. The fragrant garlic, onions, and citrus juice create the signature mojo sauce flavor, while olive oil adds smooth richness. Optional herbs and spices deepen the complexity without overwhelming the dish’s clean, bright taste.
Learn more about the health benefits of yuca and crafting traditional dishes by visiting Nutritional Benefits of Yuca and get authentic flavor inspiration from this How to Make Authentic Mojo Sauce.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your yuca con mojo
Yuca con mojo is a flavorful Cuban side dish that’s naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it a great base for various dietary needs. To customize this classic recipe, consider the following substitutions and modifications that keep the dish delicious while accommodating specific preferences or ingredient availability.
Low-Carb Options
For those watching their carbohydrate intake, replace boiled yuca with boiled cauliflower florets or riced cauliflower. This swap preserves the texture contrast when paired with the garlicky mojo sauce, yet significantly lowers the carbohydrate load.
Citrus Alternatives
If sour orange juice, a typical mojo ingredient, is not accessible or if citrus allergies are a concern, substitute it with lemon juice, lime juice, or a mild apple cider vinegar. Each alternative provides the necessary acidic brightness to balance the richness of the garlic and oil, while slightly varying the flavor profile.
Oil Substitutions
While extra virgin olive oil or bacon grease is traditional, you can swap the oil for avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or a light vegetable oil. These oils offer neutral or complementary flavors and may better suit specific dietary preferences, such as lower saturated fat or higher smoke point oils for cooking.
Garlic Alternatives
For individuals sensitive to raw garlic or who prefer a milder garlic flavor, garlic-infused olive oil can be used in place of raw minced garlic. This provides the aroma and taste of garlic without the intensity or potential digestive discomfort.
Sodium Reduction
If watching sodium intake, substitute regular salt with low-sodium sea salt or potassium salt and consider omitting black peppercorns from the mojo. Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add freshness without added sodium.
Additional Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor without adding calories, incorporate optional spices such as dried oregano or ground cumin into the mojo sauce. These spices complement the garlic and citrus notes, enhancing the overall taste palette.
By making these conscious substitutions, yuca con mojo can be tailored to fit vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, low-sodium, and sensitive digestion diets, all while maintaining the essence of this vibrant Cuban classic.
For more delightful Cuban recipes that fit varied dietary needs, check out our Gluten-Free Tortillas or the vibrant Fresh Healthy Salmon Salad.
Learn more about the Nutritional Benefits of Yuca and discover how to prepare authentic mojo sauce with this How to Make Authentic Mojo Sauce guide.
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yuca con mojo
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Vegan option
Description
🥔 Yuca con Mojo highlights the creamy yet firm texture of boiled yuca dressed with a bright, garlicky, and tangy citrus mojo sauce.
🧄 This traditional Cuban side dish adds bold flavors that beautifully complement grilled meats, rice, and beans for a classic Caribbean meal.
Ingredients
– 2 lbs (about 900 g) yuca, peeled and cut into chunks (frozen yuca, thawed, may be substituted)
– 1 small white onion, thinly sliced (or 1 to 2 large red onions)
– 6 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)
– 1/3 cup neutral oil (such as extra virgin olive oil or bacon grease)
– 1/4 cup sour orange juice (or a mix of fresh orange, lime, and lemon juice)
– Salt and black pepper to taste (start with approximately 1/4 teaspoon each)
– Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish
– Optional spices: 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Optional mojo additions: 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns, 2 dried bay leaves, 1/4 cup white vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt.
Step 3: Add the butter and use a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Gradually add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Step 5: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 6: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie dish.
Step 7: Place the crust in the pie dish, trimming any excess at the edges.
Notes
🧽 Choose firm, fresh yuca and remove any tough woody core for the best texture.
🍊 Substitute sour orange juice with a blend of fresh orange, lime, and lemon juice if unavailable.
❄️ Frozen yuca is a convenient alternative; thaw slowly and avoid overcooking to keep it firm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling and Tossing
- Cuisine: Cuban
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 217 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Yuca con Mojo, Cuban Side Dish, Garlic Mojo Sauce, Traditional Yuca
This yuca con mojo reminds me of my mom’s Sunday lunches back in Havana. 🥰 I’m curious if you’ve ever tried adding a bit of citrus zest to the mix? It gives a nice twist to the traditional flavors!
★★★★★