Latin American > Colombian > Beverages

Colombian Chicha de Yuca Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs of yuca (cassava)
- 1 cup of panela (unrefined cane sugar)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- Ice cubes

Special equipment needed:
- Blender
- Cheesecloth or strainer

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Peel and chop the yuca into small pieces.
2. In a large pot, add the yuca, panela, cinnamon stick, and water. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 30 minutes or until the yuca is soft.
3. Remove the cinnamon stick and transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until smooth.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or strainer to remove any remaining solids.
5. Return the mixture to the pot and add the milk and vanilla extract. Stir well.
6. Let it cool in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
7. Serve over ice cubes.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-low heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 200
Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 20mg
Sugar: 30g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- If panela is not available, you can use brown sugar as a substitute.
- If yuca is not available, you can use sweet potato or taro root.

Variations:
- Add coconut milk for a creamier texture.
- Add lime juice for a tangy flavor.
- Add rum for an alcoholic version.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to remove the tough fibrous center of the yuca before cooking.
- If the mixture is too thick, add more milk or water to thin it out.
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less panela.

Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Presentation ideas:
Serve in a clear glass to showcase the creamy texture.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg.

Pairings:
Serve with traditional Colombian snacks such as arepas or empanadas.

Suggested side dishes:
Fried plantains or yuca fries.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
- If the mixture is too thick, add more milk or water to thin it out.

Food safety advice:
Be sure to wash and peel the yuca thoroughly before cooking.

Food history:
Chicha de Yuca is a traditional Colombian beverage made from yuca, a staple crop in the country. It is often served at celebrations and festivals.

Flavor profiles:
Creamy, sweet, and slightly spicy from the cinnamon.

Serving suggestions:
Serve cold over ice cubes.

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Region: Colombian

Taste: Sweet, Savory, Creamy, Tangy, Nutty