Jicama…The Most Refreshing Vegetable You Didn’t Know You’re Missing
Jicama…
If you are like I was, you may find yourself asking, “What the heck is it?!”
That is the question I usually hear when I mention it to people.
And “Wow, that’s good!” is the other thing I always hear after people try it!
Often, I bring a veggie tray with hummus or dairy-free ranch to gatherings.
Every time, I always hear the same two things…
“Did you bring the veggie tray?”
And “What is that white one on it? It is so good!”
I am always so happy to share…JICAMA!!
It is true, I can get very excited about certain vegetables, and jicama is one of them!
My family teases me about how much I love it, but the thing is, I am not alone!
It is so refreshing, nutritious, and versatile, and it mixes well with so many things.
So if you are intrigued, read on for all you need to know to start enjoying this delicious God food!
What it tastes like
Learn its health benefits and nutritional value
How to pick one
How to cut it
And most importantly, ways to eat it!
Funny Looking, I Know!
Which is probably why many people haven’t tried it.
It’s one of those things you see in the grocery store and walk right on past because it doesn’t look very appealing.
Maybe that’s part of the reason I’m so enthusiastic about it…It is such an “underdog” in the world of vegetables! LOL
I am always a softy for a good underdog story, rooting for the one that not much is expected of. And to everyone’s surprise, it ends up surpassing what anyone would have thought.
That’s my friend Jicama!
What Does It Taste Like?… I’m So Glad You Asked!
It is crunchy and high in water content, which is what makes it so refreshing. It is mild, with a slight sweetness. It is often compared to a cross between a potato and a pear.
People are typically surprised once they taste it and see how good it is!
Health Benefits
This non-flashy, unassuming vegetable supports your health in so many ways!
Some of the benefits:
Supports heart health
Lowers risk of chronic disease
Several anti-cancer properties
Lowers blood sugar levels
Improves insulin sensitivity
Supports digestion
Decreases inflammation
Helps with weight management
Supports immune function
Its Nutritional Value
Its nutritional profile is what makes it so beneficial.
Antioxidants help prevent cell damage and fight cancer.
Soluble, prebiotic fiber inulin increases the number of beneficial bacteria in your gut, which aids digestion.
The fiber also helps to have more regular bowel movements.
It is specifically high in the antioxidant vitamin C, which supports immune health.
For weight management, the fiber helps you to feel full, which decreases your appetite and boosts your metabolism.
It has several other important vitamins and minerals like potassium, folate, iron, magnesium, and manganese.
How To Select A Good Jicama
You want to select one that is fairly blemish-free, without soft spots, and somewhat smooth on the outside.
However, if it is too light in color, it may not be fully ripe just yet. You can just let it sit for a couple of days for it to ripen.
I find jicamas are similar to avocados…sometimes they are perfectly ripe, but other times not. So if you get one that doesn’t have a refreshing, slightly sweet flavor, don’t give up! Try again for another one!
How To Cut Jicama
Step One…
With a sharp knife, cut off the ends on both sides.
*FYI…I am not a trained chef; this is just how I do it. I am certainly open to suggestions! ;)
Step Two…
Set the jicama on your cutting board with one of the flat sides down.
Using your sharp knife, continue to remove the remaining skin.
Step Three…
Cut the jicama into approximately 1/2 inch slices.
Step Four…
Create two piles of the jicama, with the larger side down on the cutting board.
Cut the jicama into julienne strips.
And that is it!! You are all set to enjoy your very own jicama!
Ways To Enjoy Jicama!
The most important part!
Its subtle flavor lends itself to a variety of uses, raw or cooked.
It makes a great addition to a veggie tray
It is a great grab-and-go item for lunch or for snacking on. Pairs great with hummus or dairy-free ranch.
Jicama’s crunch makes a wonderful addition to a variety of salads.
As a root vegetable, it is great roasted as well.
I love sharing quick, simple ways to eat healthy!
If you know someone who might appreciate this approach to their health, please share my blog with them!
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I hope you end up enjoying jicama as much as I do, and that it becomes a welcome addition to your regular meals!
Share your favorite way to have jicama in the comments!
Wishing you all the best as you continue to journey to healthier living!
Have a blessed and beautiful day!
Beth xo