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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 21 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Latin American