Cassava has long been a part of diets around the world, but recently it’s started to pop up on U.S. restaurant menus and in packaged food products. If you’ve come across it, you may be wondering: “What is cassava?” Here’s what you need to know about cassava, including its benefits, plus how to cook with it. (Check out7 of the Healthiest Foods You Should Be Eating but Aren’t.)

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Cassava

What Is Cassava?

Cassava Health Benefits

Cassava is an energy powerhouse with more than twice the calories and carbohydrates of potatoes. It also delivers some potassium, vitamin C and folate.

Cassava Recipes

If you want to experiment with Cassava on your own, use it like you would use any other starchy vegetable. (It’s great for making chips and fries!) One more important fact to note: Cassava should NOT be eaten raw as it contains cyanogenic glucosides, which are toxic. Peeling and cooking helps remove or destroy these toxins. It is easiest to remove the thick peel from cassava with a paring knife rather than a vegetable peeler.

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