Cassava and garlic snack is a Brazilian recipe that, in addition to being delicious, is the perfect combination of flavor, practicality and economy.
You don’t need expensive ingredients or complicated techniques. This snack delivers a crunchy texture, a striking flavor, and also offers an excellent way to explore Brazilian cuisine with a creative touch.
And do you know the best part? It’s a fun way to introduce new flavors to American friends and impress them effortlessly.
In this article, you’ll discover how to prepare this snack simply, learn about variations, learn tricks to make it even tastier, and ensure that it stands out on any occasion. Get ready to be amazed by the versatility of cassava, and fall in love with this recipe!
Cassava as a Snack: A Classic That’s Taking Over the World
You may already know cassava when cooked or fried, but when cubed and sautéed with garlic, it becomes something special. This format not only enhances the texture of the root, but also makes each piece more flavorful and easy to serve, ideal for gatherings, parties, or even as a starter for a different dinner.
Another important point to consider is that cassava, in addition to being delicious, is a gluten-free ingredient, which makes it perfect for restrictive diets. Not to mention that it is rich in energy, being an excellent alternative for those looking for more nutritious snacks.
Ingredients that Make All the Difference
To prepare this incredible snack, you will need simple and easy-to-find ingredients:
- Fresh cassava (aipim): firm, good quality.
- Chopped fresh garlic: adds an irresistible aromatic touch.
- Vegetable oil or olive oil: to ensure crunchiness.
- Salt: enhances flavors.
- Parsley or chives (optional): for a final touch of freshness.
It’s also worth noting that these ingredients can be adjusted to suit your taste. Want a spicy touch? Add some Calabrian pepper. Do you prefer a more herbal flavor? A little rosemary goes very well.
How to Prepare: Simple and Detailed Step-by-Step
Let’s now explore in more detail how to prepare this snack to ensure it turns out perfectly:
- Peel the cassava and cut it into medium-sized cubes. Try to keep the size uniform so that they cook evenly.
- Cook in water with a little salt until soft, but without falling apart, this takes about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Drain well and let it cool a little. This prevents the oil from splashing when frying.
- Heat a frying pan with oil or olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the cassava cubes and fry until they are golden and crispy on the outside.
- Add the chopped garlic in the last few minutes to prevent it from burning; the secret is to let it brown slightly.
- Finish with salt to taste and fresh herbs.
Serve hot, with a special sauce, a sweet and sour sauce, for example, enhances the flavor of the cassava even more.
Creative Variations to Get Out of the Ordinary
If you’re the type of person who loves to experiment with new flavors and add your own special touch to recipes, this section is for you. The cassava and garlic snack is delicious on its own, but with a little creativity, it can be transformed into something even more surprising.
1. Cassava with bacon and caramelized onion
For a more intense version, add strips of crispy bacon and caramelized onion on top of the already fried cubes. The combination of salty and sweet flavors will please even the most demanding palates.
2. Mexican-style cassava cubes
Want a Tex-Mex twist? Season the cassava with smoked paprika, cumin and coriander powder before frying. Serve with guacamole or sour cream as a side dish.
3. Cassava snack with curd cheese
Cover the cubes with pieces of curd cheese and bake for a few minutes to brown. This version has an irresistible northeastern touch.
4. Cassava seasoned with fine herbs and Sicilian lemon
For something lighter and more aromatic, add rosemary, thyme and Sicilian lemon zest at the end. A sophisticated and refreshing touch, ideal for serving as a starter.
5. Sweet version: cassava with brown sugar and cinnamon
Can you believe that you can even turn this snack into a dessert? Just fry the cubes and sprinkle with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon. Serve with a drizzle of honey on top, it’s a surprising delight!
These variations not only make the dish more interesting, but also allow you to innovate in presentation and flavors, whether to please different audiences or to add that special touch on specific occasions.
Tips that Make a Difference in the Result
Now, if you want to take your snack to the next level, take note of these unconventional tips:
- Use ghee instead of oil for an authentic Northeastern touch.
- Cook with a little homemade vegetable broth for extra flavor right from the start.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese on top right after frying, it melts slightly and adds an irresistible touch of umami.
- Serve in mini iron or ceramic pans for a charming and welcoming presentation.
- Try coating the cubes in cassava flour before frying, for an extra layer of crunch.
These small details completely transform the experience and make the dish stand out even among the more traditional ones.
Discover New Flavors with Brazilian Recipe Apps
If you liked the idea of the cassava and garlic snack and want to go further, it’s worth exploring apps that make it easier to access other Brazilian recipes. With them, you can learn traditional dishes, discover preparation secrets and adapt everything to what you have in your kitchen.
1. Tastemade Brasil
This app is known for its well-produced recipes and short videos. You can find everything from snacks to typical dishes like feijoada, moqueca and regional desserts. All with simple instructions and attractive visuals.
2. Cookpad Brasil
Focused on recipes shared by ordinary people. You can find authentic tips, family tricks and even interact with other Brazilian food lovers.
Conclusion
If you’ve made it this far, you’ve already realized that this cassava and garlic snack is much more than it seems. It’s easy, cheap, incredibly tasty, and has the power to win over any palate, especially those who love new things in the kitchen.
With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can bring the best of Brazilian cuisine to your table, surprising friends and family with an authentic and comforting flavor.
So, how about trying this recipe today? Grab your cassava, separate the garlic, and get to work! This is the perfect chance to innovate your menu with a snack that brings tradition and creativity in every bite.
Take the first step to delighting with unique flavors. You’ll be amazed by the result!