Salone Chef Renata, the renowned founder of Renata’s Afro Fusion Cuisine, is here to share her expertise on how to make delicious cassava chips. Cassava chips are a popular snack in many African countries and are loved for their crispy texture and unique flavor.
To begin, you will need fresh cassava roots. Peel the cassava and cut it into thin slices using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. It’s important to ensure that the slices are of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
Next, place the cassava slices in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for about 30 minutes. This step helps to remove any excess starch from the cassava, resulting in crispier chips.
While the cassava slices are soaking, heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot. The oil should be heated to around 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of cassava into the oil. If it sizzles and floats to the surface, the oil is hot enough.
Once the cassava slices have finished soaking, drain them thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure that the chips become crispy during frying.
Carefully lower a small batch of cassava slices into the hot oil using a slotted spoon or tongs. Be cautious as the oil may splatter. Fry the chips in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the fryer or pot. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking.
Allow the cassava chips to fry for about 5-7 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them as they can quickly go from golden brown to burnt.
Once the chips are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer them onto a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil.
Finally, season the cassava chips with your preferred spices and flavors. You can sprinkle them with salt, black pepper, paprika, or any other seasoning of your choice. Toss the chips gently to ensure even distribution of the seasoning.
Now, you can enjoy your homemade cassava chips! They make a great snack for any occasion and are sure to impress your friends and family with their delicious taste and crispy texture.
Chef Renata’s passion for cooking and her innovative approach to blending flavors from different cultures shine through in this recipe. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the delightful fusion of flavors that cassava chips have to offer.
