Yucca with Beef: A Traditional and Flavorful Recipe

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Yucca with beef is a staple in Brazilian cuisine, especially popular in the North and Northeast regions. This dish combines tender, slow-cooked beef with soft, buttery yucca (cassava), creating a rich and comforting meal. The slow simmering of the beef allows it to absorb all the aromatic seasonings, while the yucca adds a smooth, slightly sweet contrast that perfectly balances the dish.

This recipe is not just about taste—it’s also nutritious. Yucca is a great source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins, while beef provides protein and iron. Whether for a family lunch, a cozy dinner, or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to bring warmth and satisfaction to the table.

Ingredients

For the beef:

  • 500g (1 lb) beef (chuck, shank, or shoulder), cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons oil or olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 tablespoon tomato paste)
  • 1 teaspoon sweet or smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 cups beef broth or water

For the yucca:

  • 500g (1 lb) yucca (cassava), peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Water for boiling

For garnishing:

  • Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro
  • Green onions, chopped

How to Prepare Yucca with Beef

1. Cooking the Beef

  1. Searing the Beef: Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them on all sides until golden brown. This step enhances the flavor by caramelizing the meat.
  2. Sautéing the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring until fragrant and translucent. This creates the flavor base of the dish.
  3. Adding the Seasonings: Stir in the chopped tomatoes (or tomato paste), paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well so the beef absorbs all the seasonings.
  4. Simmering the Beef: Pour in the beef broth or water and add the bay leaf. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add more water if needed to prevent drying out. The goal is to achieve tender, fall-apart beef with a rich, flavorful sauce.

2. Cooking the Yucca

  1. Boiling the Yucca: While the beef is cooking, place the yucca chunks in a separate pot and cover with water.
  2. Adding Salt: Add 1 teaspoon of salt and bring to a boil.
  3. Cooking Until Tender: Let it cook for about 20 to 30 minutes, until the yucca is fork-tender. Drain and remove the fibrous center strands, if necessary.

3. Combining Everything

  1. Adding the Yucca to the Beef: Once the beef is tender, add the cooked yucca directly into the pot.
  2. Letting the Flavors Meld: Stir gently and let everything simmer together for another 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the yucca to absorb some of the flavorful broth.
  3. Final Adjustments: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mash a few yucca pieces into the broth for a richer consistency.

4. Serving the Dish

  1. Garnishing: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or cilantro and green onions over the dish for extra freshness.
  2. Choosing Side Dishes: Serve with white rice, farofa (toasted cassava flour), or a fresh green salad. These sides enhance the dish’s textures and balance its richness.

Tips for the Best Yucca with Beef

1. Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

  • Chuck, shank, or shoulder are ideal for slow cooking because they become tender and flavorful after simmering. Avoid lean cuts, as they tend to dry out.

2. Cooking Yucca Properly

  • Yucca needs to be peeled carefully because its skin is tough.
  • If you notice any fibrous strands inside, remove them after boiling for a smoother texture.
  • For a creamier consistency, mash some yucca into the sauce before serving.

3. Enhancing the Flavor

  • Add a splash of lime juice before serving for a bright and slightly tangy finish.
  • A small piece of smoked sausage can be added while simmering the beef to deepen the flavor.
  • For a spicy kick, include a small chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne.

Why This Dish is So Special

Yucca with beef is more than just a meal—it’s a dish full of tradition, warmth, and comfort. It represents the heart of Brazilian home cooking, where simple ingredients come together to create something truly delicious.

This dish is perfect for meal prepping since it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s also gluten-free and naturally hearty and filling, making it suitable for a variety of diets.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Perfect Comfort Food!

Now that you have all the tips and techniques to make the perfect yucca and beef stew, it’s time to get into the kitchen and bring this delicious recipe to life! Whether you’re serving it for a special family meal or just craving a warm, homemade dish, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

So grab your ingredients, let your pot simmer, and enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish!

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