| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 220 | 7g | 1g | 35g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 4g | 3g | 0.4g |
Food is a universal language, one that evokes memories, connects cultures and flavors, and simply put, brings joy. As a Texan with a soft spot for blending traditional Southern recipes with modern culinary trends, I’ll always have a special love for a good ol’ bag of chips. But what if we could enjoy that crispy, golden goodness in a healthier, more exciting manner? The answer lies in the humble cassava root, and my all-time favorite recipe, the Baked Cassava Chips.
Imagine this: thick chunks of cassava root, lovingly coated in a mixture of olive oil, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a hit of chili powder if you’re keen on some extra warmth. These are then baked to perfection, boasting an ideal crunch with each bite. That’s not all – once out of the oven, they’re given a final flavor boost with a spritz of fresh lime juice and a light shower of zesty lime zest. Does it get any better than that?
The Nutritional Perks Of The Humble Cassava
Cassava, or yucca as it’s also known, is a root vegetable native to South America. It’s a fantastic source of carbohydrates and it also happens to be gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those on a gluten-free diet. Cassava also contains a fair amount of fiber, which aids digestion, and other essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium and folate. The olive oil used in this recipe adds heart-healthy fats as well.
Perfect Pairings For Baked Cassava Chips
I hold these Baked Cassava Chips close to my heart for their absolute versatility. You can enjoy them with a lip-smacking guacamole, alongside a salsa, or perhaps dip them in some tangy Texas red chili. These chips could also be your go-to snack for a movie night or a healthy side dish that complements a variety of main courses, much like your favorite potato chips or fries. What more could you ask for?
Inspired by a love for vibrant Tex-Mex flavors and robust Southern cooking, this Baked Cassava Chip recipe not only pleases the palate but also keeps you on track with your health goals. It brings together the best of both worlds in a truly delicious way. Bon appétit!
What You’ll Need
- 2 large cassavas
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder (optional)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step Two
Peel the cassavas and slice them into chips. Ensure that they take on an even thickness to allow consistent baking.
Step Three
In a large bowl, combine the sliced cassava chips, olive oil, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and chili powder, if desired.
Step Four
Toss everything together, ensuring that the cassava chips are fully coated with the added seasoning.
Step Five
Arrange the cassava chips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure that the chips do not overlap. This will ensure that all the chips bake evenly and become crispy.
Step Six
Bake for about 20 minutes, then flip the cassava chips and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. The timing may vary based on the thickness of your cassava chips and your specific oven.
Step Seven
Once baked, remove the cassava chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. The cooled chips should be crunchy and slightly sweet.
