How to Eat Jicama – Benefits, Recipes & Tips for On-the-Go Eating

Introduction

Jicama is a root vegetable that is becoming increasingly popular. It has a sweet flavor and crunchy texture, making it a great addition to salads, soups, and sides. But what exactly is jicama and what are the nutritional benefits?

Definition of Jicama

Jicama is a tuberous root vegetable in the legume family. Its scientific name is Pachyrhizus erosus and it is native to Central and South America. Jicama has a thin brown skin and white flesh. It has a sweet taste and crunchy texture, similar to an apple or potato.

Nutritional Benefits

Jicama is low in calories and fat and high in dietary fiber. It is also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, iron, and folate. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, jicama is a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect against disease.

Preparing and Cooking Jicama

Jicama is easy to prepare and cook. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Wash the jicama with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
• Using a sharp knife, peel off the brown skin.
• Cut the jicama into cubes, slices, or strips.
• Cook the jicama by boiling, roasting, or sautéing.

Tips for selecting good jicama:

• Choose jicama that is firm to the touch and has no soft spots.
• Avoid jicama that is shriveled or has blemishes.
• Look for jicama that is heavy for its size.

Delicious Jicama Recipes

Once you have prepared and cooked the jicama, you can incorporate it into a variety of dishes. Here are some delicious recipes:

Breakfast

Start your day right with this healthy breakfast bowl. Combine cooked jicama, quinoa, black beans, diced bell peppers, and avocado. Top with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of olive oil.

Lunch

Make a tasty lunch wrap with cooked jicama, lettuce, tomato, and hummus. Wrap it up in a whole wheat tortilla and enjoy!

Dinner

For dinner, try roasting jicama with olive oil and spices. Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.

Snacks

Jicama makes a great snack! Slice it into sticks and serve with Greek yogurt dip. You can also sprinkle it with chili powder and lime juice for a spicy kick.

Combining Jicama with Other Foods

Jicama pairs well with many other ingredients. Here are some ideas:

Salads

Add jicama to your favorite salad for a crunchy texture. Try combining jicama with spinach, tomatoes, feta cheese, and a simple vinaigrette.

Soups

Jicama adds a unique flavor and texture to soup. Try adding it to a classic minestrone soup or a creamy squash soup.

Sides

Jicama makes a great side dish. Roast it with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Or mash it into a mashed potato-like consistency and season with salt and pepper.

Eating Jicama on the Go

If you’re short on time, jicama is a great option for eating on the go. Here are some tips and meal prepping ideas:

Meal Prepping

Meal prepping is a great way to save time during the week. Prepare jicama ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can add it to salads, wraps, and smoothies.

Wraps

Jicama makes a great filling for wraps. Fill a whole wheat tortilla with cooked jicama, lettuce, and your favorite toppings. These wraps are perfect for lunch or a snack on the go.

Smoothies

Jicama can be added to smoothies for a boost of nutrients. Try blending it with banana, almond milk, and chia seeds for a delicious and nutritious smoothie.

Conclusion

Jicama is a versatile and nutritious root vegetable. It is easy to prepare and can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. From salads and soups to wraps and smoothies, there are endless ways to enjoy jicama. With these tips and meal prepping ideas, you can easily incorporate jicama into your diet.