Crispy Baked Yuca Fries with Garlic-Parsley Dip

Learn how to make crispy, golden yuca fries (cassava fries) at home. Baked in the oven or prepared in an air fryer, these fries are soft and creamy inside with a satisfying crunch outside — a tasty, healthier alternative to traditional potato fries.

Homemade yuca fries (yuca frita) are a beloved Latin American snack that’s easy to prepare. They offer a starchy, delicious texture similar to potato fries or sweet potato fries. Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions to make yuca fries at home using simple ingredients and methods.

There is a small learning curve the first time you work with yuca (cassava), but once you chop, peel, and boil the root, cooking the fries is straightforward. You can finish them in the oven or the air fryer. They’re a great party snack and pair well with many dipping sauces.

What is yuca (cassava)?

Yuca, also called cassava, is a starchy root vegetable grown across South America, Africa, and Asia. It resembles sweet potatoes in shape, with a dark brown, waxy exterior and a pale, light-colored interior. Like potatoes, yuca is rich in starch and serves as a versatile ingredient in many cuisines.

Is cassava healthier than potatoes?

Cassava contains more calories, carbohydrates, and slightly more protein than potatoes, but it’s naturally fat-free and provides vitamins such as vitamin C and B vitamins, along with dietary fiber. Despite its higher carbohydrate content, cassava’s glycemic index can be lower than some potato varieties, making it a good option for active people and athletes when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

How do you eat cassava?

Besides frying or baking cassava into fries, the root can be dried and milled into cassava flour, a gluten-free alternative for baking and thickening sauces. Cassava flour works well in muffins, breads, and as a substitute for other gluten-free flours in many recipes.

How to prepare yuca root for cooking

Peeling yuca takes a bit more effort than peeling a potato because the skin is thick. Use a sharp knife rather than a flimsy peeler:

1. Trim off both ends of each yuca root and discard them. Cut the root into 3–4 manageable segments.
2. Score the skin lengthwise with a shallow cut, taking care not to cut into the flesh.
3. Gently work your knife or thumbs under the edge of the scored skin and peel it away, rotating the segment until the skin separates.

After peeling, cut each segment in half or quarters, remove the central fibrous core that runs through the middle, then slice the flesh into fry-shaped pieces. Rinse briefly before boiling.

How to make yuca fries in the oven

Baking yuca fries is a healthier method than deep-frying: less oil, less mess, and excellent flavor. To bake yuca fries:

Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the prepared yuca fries. Boil for about 10 minutes until slightly tender but not falling apart.

Step 2: Drain and pat the fries dry to remove excess moisture. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 3: Toss the fries with a little olive oil, sea salt, and your choice of seasonings such as chili powder or smoked paprika. Arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake for about 30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the fries are golden and crisp. Serve hot with your favorite dips.

How to make yuca fries in the air fryer

Air frying yields extra-crispy fries with minimal oil. To air fry yuca:

Step 1: Peel, cut, and boil the yuca as described above.

Step 2: Toss the drained, dry fries with oil, salt, and spices, then place them in an even layer in the air fryer basket.

Step 3: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket every few minutes to ensure even browning.

Step 4: Remove when golden and crisp, and serve immediately.

What pairs well with cassava fries?

Cassava fries take well to smoky and spicy seasonings like chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, or Cajun seasoning. Finish them with grated cotija or parmesan, chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of hot sauce. Popular dipping options include garlic aioli, spicy mayonnaise, cilantro-lime crema, chimichurri, or classic ketchup.

Other great baked fries to try

Sea Salt Sweet Potato Steak Fries

Crispy Carrot Fries (Oven Baked)

Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

Air Fryer Root Vegetable Fries

Crispy Baked Yuca Fries

These crispy baked yuca fries are golden on the outside, soft inside, and packed with flavor. A simple, healthier twist on classic fries.

Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Total: 55 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 large yuca roots
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tbsp sea salt
• 1 tbsp chili powder (or paprika)

Instructions

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil while you prepare the yuca.
• Trim the ends of each yuca root, cut into 2–3 segments depending on size, and peel the waxy skin with a knife.
• Remove the fibrous core from each segment, then slice each piece lengthwise into fry-shaped sticks.
• Rinse the fries and add them to the boiling water. Cook for about 10 minutes until slightly tender.
• Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Drain and pat the fries dry to remove excess moisture.
• Toss the fries with olive oil, sea salt, and chili powder (or paprika). Arrange in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake for about 30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the fries are golden and crisp.
• Store leftovers in an airtight bag. Reheat in a skillet with a little oil for best texture.

Notes

Baking: A healthier option with minimal oil and easy cleanup. Air frying: Quicker and yields extra-crispy fries when you shake the basket frequently.

Nutrition

Calories: 260 kcal | Carbohydrates: 52 g | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 5 g | Sodium: 601 mg | Fiber: 2 g

Nutrition information is an approximation.