Basic Yuca

Mild, waxy, and sticky, yuca is yummy plain-simmered—if you like the tapioca texture. Serve as a side to vegetable curry, chili, or braised meat. Do not wander far from the stove—if overcooked, yuca becomes a sticky fibrous mass. “Cook until tender” is more subjective than for other starches. Some people like it a touch chewy (never al dente, however), some like it moist and melty. Although it defies traditional methods, I find the roots hold together better if added to boiling—not cold—wat