Yuca & Banana Waffles- Earl Grey Fruit Jam Recipe

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Yuca & Banana Waffles – Earl Grey Fruit Jam Recipe

Introduction

Okay, friends, let me tell you about a breakfast (or brunch, or even dessert!) that completely stole my heart. These Yuca & Banana Waffles are a little bit unexpected, a whole lot delicious, and surprisingly easy to make. I first stumbled upon this combination while trying to use up some yuca I’d picked up at the market, and honestly, I’ve been hooked ever since. The waffles are subtly sweet, wonderfully fluffy, and the Earl Grey Fruit Jam? Oh, it’s just chef’s kiss. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These aren’t your average waffles. They’re naturally gluten-free (with the tapioca option!), packed with goodness from yuca and banana, and the aromatic jam adds a touch of sophistication. Plus, they’re a fun way to explore a less common ingredient like yuca. Trust me, you’ll be making these again and again!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful waffles and jam:

• 1 cup cooked mashed yuca
• 1 large ripe banana
• 1 tablespoon Avocado Oil
• 1 cup Tapioca Flour
• ½ cup Coconut Milk
• Handful Prunes
• Handful Dried Cherries
• 1 cup Earl Grey Tea
• Pinch Cinnamon

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

Yuca: A Root Vegetable Spotlight

Yuca (also called cassava) is a starchy root vegetable popular in many tropical cuisines. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. You can find it at many international grocery stores, especially Latin American or Asian markets.

Avocado Oil: Health Benefits & Flavor Profile

I love using avocado oil for its neutral flavor and health benefits. But feel free to substitute with melted coconut oil or even a light olive oil if that’s what you have on hand.

Tapioca Flour: Gluten-Free Binding Power

Tapioca flour is a fantastic gluten-free option that gives these waffles a lovely chewiness. It’s different than tapioca starch, so make sure you grab the flour!

Earl Grey Tea: Aromatic Infusion

Earl Grey’s bergamot flavor pairs beautifully with the dried fruits. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other teas, though – more on that later!

Coconut Milk: Creaminess & Regional Variations

Full-fat coconut milk will give you the richest, creamiest waffles. You can use light coconut milk, but the texture might be slightly different. I often use canned coconut milk, but fresh is wonderful if you can find it.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get to the fun part!

1. First, peel and chop your yuca into large pieces. Boil them in water for about 20 minutes, until they’re fork-tender. Drain well and mash – you want about 1 cup.
2. In a bowl, combine the mashed yuca, banana, and avocado oil. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. If the batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water until it reaches a pourable consistency.
3. Preheat your waffle iron and grease it well. Pour about ½ cup of batter onto the hot iron (adjust depending on your waffle iron size) and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Now, for the jam! Soak your prunes and dried cherries in the brewed Earl Grey tea for about 15 minutes.
5. Transfer the soaked fruit and tea to a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, until the liquid has thickened into a lovely jam-like consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Expert Tips

A few little secrets to waffle success:

Achieving the Perfect Waffle Crispness

Don’t open the waffle iron too early! Let the waffle cook completely before lifting it out. A little patience goes a long way.

Working with Yuca: Tips for Preparation

Yuca has a fibrous core, so make sure to remove it completely when peeling. Boiling it until very tender is key for a smooth mash.

Mastering the Tapioca Flour Batter

Tapioca flour batter can be a little sticky. Don’t overmix it, and make sure your waffle iron is well-greased.

Infusing Flavor with Earl Grey Tea

For a stronger tea flavor in the jam, you can steep the tea for a longer time or use a stronger brew.

Variations

Let’s get creative!

Vegan Yuca & Banana Waffles

This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just double-check your coconut milk is plant-based.

Gluten-Free Option (Tapioca Flour Focus)

We’ve already got you covered here! Tapioca flour makes these waffles perfectly gluten-free.

Spice Level Adjustment (Cinnamon & Beyond)

I love a pinch of cinnamon, but feel free to add a dash of nutmeg, cardamom, or even a tiny bit of ginger for a warmer flavor.

Festival Adaptations (Holi, Diwali – Fruit & Sweet Focus)

During festivals like Holi or Diwali, you could add chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds to the batter, or serve the waffles with a sprinkle of edible glitter for a festive touch!

Serving Suggestions

These waffles are amazing on their own, but here are a few ideas to take them to the next level:

• Drizzle with the Earl Grey Fruit Jam (obviously!).
• Top with a dollop of coconut cream.
• Add a handful of fresh berries.
• A sprinkle of chopped nuts adds a nice crunch.

Storage Instructions

Leftover waffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or oven for best results. The jam can be stored in a jar in the refrigerator for up to a week.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is Yuca and how does it taste?

Yuca is a starchy root vegetable with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It’s a staple in many tropical cuisines.

Can I use plantain instead of banana in this recipe?

You can! Plantain will give the waffles a slightly different flavor and texture – a bit less sweet and a bit more dense.

Is tapioca flour a good substitute for wheat flour in other recipes?

Tapioca flour works well as a thickener and binder in many recipes. It’s great for gluten-free baking, but it doesn’t have the same protein content as wheat flour, so it’s best used in combination with other gluten-free flours.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the waffles?

If you prefer a sweeter waffle, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the batter.

What other teas can I use instead of Earl Grey?

Rooibos, chamomile, or even a black tea would work well in the jam. Experiment and find your favorite!

How long does the fruit jam keep for?

The fruit jam will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week.