Mofongo de Yuca
A savory and satisfying dish made from mashed boiled yuca (cassava), fried pork cracklings (chicharrón), garlic, and olive oil, often served as a side or main course.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yuca (cassava)(peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 1 cup Pork cracklings (chicharrón)(crushed)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1/4 cup Olive oil(plus more for frying)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/4 cup Chicken broth(optional, for moisture)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Place the peeled and cut yuca in a large pot and cover with water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the yuca is very tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- 2
Drain the yuca thoroughly. Remove any tough fibers from the center of the yuca pieces.
- 3
In a large bowl, mash the hot yuca using a potato masher or a fork until mostly smooth. It's okay if there are a few small lumps.
- 4
Add the crushed pork cracklings (chicharrón), minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the mashed yuca. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- 5
If the mixture seems too dry, gradually add a little chicken broth (or water) until it reaches a workable consistency for shaping.
- 6
Using lightly oiled hands, shape the mixture into balls or a mound. You can also press it into a mortar and pestle (pilón) for a more traditional texture.
- 7
Serve immediately. Mofongo de yuca is often drizzled with extra olive oil or served with a side of garlic sauce or a stew.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the yuca is cooked until very tender, as this will make it easier to mash.
- ✓Use good quality chicharrón for the best flavor and texture.
- ✓Adjust the amount of garlic and chicharrón to your personal preference.
🔄 Variations
- Add finely chopped cilantro or parsley to the mixture.
- Serve with a side of shrimp in garlic sauce (camarones al ajillo).
- For a richer flavor, you can fry the shaped mofongo briefly in a little oil until golden brown.