Jicama is a root vegetable with papery, golden-brown skin and a starchy white interior. Originally grown in Mexico, jicama eventually spread to the Philippines and Asia. It requires a long growing season with no frost, so it thrives in locales that are warm year-round. Its flesh is juicy and crunchy, with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. Some think it tastes like a cross between a potato and a pear. Others (including me) compare it to a water chestnut.
Other names for jicama include yam bean, Mexican potato, Mexican water chestnut and Chinese turnip. It is often available in the produce section of your grocery store. Here are five reasons why you should give it a try.
1. Jicama is a nutritional powerhouse. Most of its calories come from carbs. The rest are from very small amounts of protein and fat. Jicama contains many important vitamins and minerals, as well as a significant amount of fiber. This root vegetable is low in calories and high in water, making it a weight loss-friendly food. Jicama is also an excellent source of vitamin C, magnesium, potassium and folate. It contains small amounts of vitamin E, thiamine, riboflavin, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, calcium, phosphorus, zinc and copper.
2. Jicima is heart healthy. It contains dietary fiber, potassium, iron, copper and nitrate, which may benefit heart health by lowering cholesterol levels, reducing blood pressure and improving circulation.
3. Jicama supports gut health. Jicama contains a type of prebiotic fiber that feeds beneficial gut bacteria. Healthy gut bacteria reduce the risk of developing obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
4. Jicama is easy on the waistline. It is a nutrient-dense food that is low in calories and high in fiber and water. Studies show that eating jicama can decrease blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity and help you feel full longer.
5. Jicama is tasty, versatile and different. There are many different ways to eat jicama. It can be eaten plain, with a dip, or incorporated into dishes like salads and stir-fries. Grate it and toss with cabbage and carrots for a slaw or use it in a stir fry. Slice it into thin rounds or matchsticks, season with chili, lime and a dash of salt for an easy snack.
Jicama is just a healthy food to include in your diet. Plus, it's tasty and crunchy and can be eaten by itself or paired with many other foods. Given all of the benefits that jicama has to offer and its wide availability and low cost, you should consider incorporating it into your diet.
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