
Central Africa · Dessert
Buñuelos de Yuca (Sweet Cassava and Banana Fritters)
Golden, crisp cassava-banana fritters infused with warm cinnamon and anise, showered in powdered sugar for an irresistible afternoon indulgence.
The story
Popular throughout coastal towns like Bata and Malabo, these fritters are a beloved feature of afternoon meriendas and festive holiday dessert courses. The recipe merges indigenous Bantu root-crop staples with colonial Spanish pastry techniques, showcasing the island and mainland's rich creole heritage. Squeezing the raw grated cassava removes excess bitter liquid and unneeded moisture, ensuring the fritters puff lightly with a crisp shell rather than becoming gummy.
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