Cassava

Cassava, also known as manioc or yuca, is a tropical root native to South America and a staple of African, Asian and Caribbean cooking. It is rich in starch and has a neutral taste; it is served boiled, pounded or grated as a side dish or the base of a meal. In Africa it is essential for fufu and many other traditional dishes. Never eat it raw: it contains natural cyanogenic compounds that are removed by peeling and thorough cooking.