yuca
Yuca is nothing more than a starchy tuber that grows in tropical climates. The root is about 8 inches long by about two inches around. It is covered by a thick brown skin which needs to be removed before eating.
By the way, before I go on, I want to clarify that it is pronounced you-kah, and NOT yuck-ah. I just wanted to make that clear.
Yuca is an integral part of the diet of Latin America, Africa, and the Caribbean. Many indigenous cultures still revere this tasty tuber because it is such an important source of food.
It can also be cooked in many different ways: boiled, baked, or fried. It can be turned into flour: tapioca starch.
Given its multiple uses, it is not a wonder that it is still revered by native cultures.