Guiso de Chayote y Yuca
Costa RicanLunch

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Guiso de Chayote y Yuca is a beloved Costa Rican vegetable stew that showcases the country's agricultural bounty. This warming one-pot meal combines starchy yucca root with mild chayote squash, creating a satisfying texture contrast. The vegetables are simmered together with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and aromatic cilantro in a flavorful broth seasoned with cumin and oregano. This humble yet nourishing dish represents the Tico appreciation for simple, wholesome ingredients prepared with care. Traditionally served as a main course for lunch, this guiso provides sustained energy through its combination of root vegetables and legumes. The stew's rich, comforting flavors develop as it simmers, making it even better the next day. Perfect for family gatherings or casual weekday meals, this recipe embodies the warmth and hospitality of Costa Rican home cooking.

Instructions

step by step
0/8 done
  1. Peel the yucca root and cut into 2-inch chunks, removing the fibrous core. Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into similar-sized pieces. Cut the bell peppers and chayote into 1-inch cubes. Dice the onions and mince the garlic and cilantro.

  2. Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  3. Add the cubed bell peppers to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir in the cumin, oregano, paprika, and black pepper. Cook the spices for 1 minute to release their aromas.

  4. Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, and 6 cups of water or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

  5. Once boiling, add the yucca chunks, sweet potato pieces, and black beans. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  6. Add the chayote cubes to the pot and continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes until all vegetables are fork-tender but not mushy. The yucca should be soft and creamy.

  7. Stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed. Let the guiso rest for 5 minutes before serving.

  8. Ladle the hot stew into bowls and serve immediately with extra cilantro and lime wedges on the side.

Guiso de Chayote y Yuca

4.2 (55)

A hearty Costa Rican vegetable stew featuring yucca root, chayote squash, and tender vegetables simmered in a savory tomato-based broth with cilantro and spices. This rustic comfort dish is perfect for any day.

easy
1h 5m
6 servings

Ingredients

0 of 17 checked

Main Vegetables

  • 1 1/2 pounds plantain, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks (yucca substitute)
  • 2 pieces sweet-potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 pieces bell-peppers, seeded and diced
  • 2 pieces zucchini, cubed (chayote substitute)

Protein

  • 1 1/2 cups black-beans, cooked or canned, drained

Base

  • 4 pieces tomatoes, diced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato-paste

Aromatics

  • 2 pieces onions, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs

  • 4 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

Spices

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin, ground
  • 1 teaspoons oregano, dried
  • 1 teaspoons paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, or to taste

Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons olive-oil

Finishing

  • 2 pieces lime, juiced

Chef Tips

expert advice
For the best flavor, use fresh yucca rather than frozen - it has a superior texture and taste.
If chayote is unavailable, substitute with zucchini, though the texture will be slightly different.
This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
You can make it spicier by adding a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of hot sauce.
For a heartier version, add cubed potatoes along with the yucca.
The stew should have a slightly thick consistency - if it becomes too thick, add more water or broth.
For a vegan version, ensure your broth is plant-based.
Some Costa Rican cooks add a tablespoon of achiote oil for color and flavor.
You can also stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
Garnish with sliced avocado for extra richness.