Crispy Fried Yuca Fries: Caribbean Sunshine on Your Plate!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680g) fresh yuca root, peeled and cut into 3-inch batons
• 4 cups (1 liter) cold water, for soaking
• 2 quarts (2 liters) vegetable oil, for frying (such as canola or peanut oil)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• ½ cup (120g) mayonnaise (full-fat or light)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup (15g) fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste