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Fried Yuca Balls with Mozzarella and Guava Paste Sauce Recipe

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4.2 from 7 reviews

Bolitas de Yuca are delicious fried yuca balls stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, served with a sweet and tangy guava sauce. This Latin American inspired appetizer features golden, crispy exteriors with soft, cheesy centers, perfect for sharing or as a savory snack.

  • Total Time: 31 minutes
  • Yield: 24 servings

Ingredients

Yuca Balls

  • 1 lb frozen yuca
  • 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into ½ inch cubes
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying (about 1/2 inch depth in pan)

Guava Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons guava paste
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar

Instructions

  1. Boil the Yuca: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil using about a tablespoon of salt. Add the frozen yuca and cook according to the package instructions or until fork tender, approximately 15-25 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Yuca: Drain the cooked yuca and remove any woody stems from the core. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mash the yuca until it achieves a smooth consistency.
  3. Form the Yuca Balls: Take a heaping tablespoon of mashed yuca and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then pinch the mashed yuca around the cheese to form a tight ball. Repeat until all yuca and cheese cubes are used.
  4. Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat oil over high heat to about a half-inch depth, ensuring it's hot enough for frying.
  5. Fry the Bolitas: Carefully add the yuca balls to the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  6. Prepare the Guava Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the guava paste and white vinegar. Microwave until the guava paste melts, then stir until the mixture reaches a barbecue sauce-like consistency. If needed, add additional vinegar to thin the sauce.
  7. Serve: Plate the fried bolitas de yuca alongside the guava sauce for dipping and enjoy them warm.

Notes

  • Ensure the yuca is thoroughly cooked and soft before mashing for the best texture.
  • The guava sauce can be adjusted with more or less vinegar depending on your preferred balance of sweetness and tanginess.
  • Be cautious when frying as hot oil can splatter; frying in batches helps maintain oil temperature.
  • Use fresh mozzarella cubes for melty, gooey centers.
  • These bolitas can be served as appetizers, snacks, or party finger foods.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 21 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Latin American