Introduction:

Jicama, also known as the Mexican yam or Mexican turnip, is a versatile and healthy root vegetable often used in salads, slaws, and salsas. Its texture resembles an apple or a crunchy pear, and its flavor is mildly sweet and slightly nutty. To help you enjoy this unique vegetable, we’ve outlined 14 easy steps to prepare jicama for various dishes.

Step 1: Selecting Jicama

Choose a firm, medium-sized jicama with smooth skin. It should feel heavy for its size.

Step 2: Storing Jicama

Store it in a cool, dark place like a pantry for up to three weeks or refrigerate it for even longer storage.

Step 3: Washing Jicama

Wash the jicama thoroughly under cold running water to remove dirt and debris.

Step 4: Peeling Jicama

Using a sharp knife or a vegetable peeler, remove the outer brown skin to reveal the white flesh inside. Dispose of the skin as it is not edible.

Step 5: Cutting Jicama into Cubes

Slice off the top and bottom parts of the jicama. Then, make small vertical cuts around the circumference of the vegetable to create cubes.

Step 6: Cutting Jicama into Strips

For strips, slice the jicama vertically into thin planks before cutting them lengthwise into matchstick-sized pieces.

Step 7: Slicing Jicama Thinly

You can also use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to create thin slices for salads or slaws.

Step 8: Grating Jicama

Grate jicama with a box grater or food processor with a grating blade attachment for dishes like coleslaw or tacos.

Step 9: Cooking Jicama

Though most commonly served raw, jicama can also be cooked. To do so, steam it for about 5 minutes or sauté it with a little oil for 8-10 minutes.

Step 10: Making Jicama Fries

Toss jicama strips in olive oil, seasoning, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes until crispy and golden.

Step 11: Create a Jicama Salad

Combine jicama cubes or slivers with other fresh vegetables, lime juice, jalapenos, and cilantro to make a refreshing summer salad.

Step 12: Add Jicama to Slaws

Incorporate thinly sliced jicama into your favorite coleslaw recipe for added crunch and natural sweetness.

Step 13: Use Jicama in Salsas

Chop jicama into small pieces and mix with fruits like mangoes, tomatoes, onions, and peppers to create a vibrant salsa.

Step 14: Serve Jicama as a Snack

Sprinkle lime juice and chili powder over jicama sticks for a healthy snack with a kick.

Conclusion:

Now that you know how to prepare jicama, don’t hesitate to experiment with this unique vegetable. From salads to salsas or as a simple snack – there’s no limit to the culinary possibilities of jicama. Enjoy its taste and texture in your favorite dishes!