Jicama is a game-changer in the culinary world, offering a unique flavor profile that’s both nutty and sweet. This Mexican root vegetable has gained popularity worldwide, including Peru, where it’s often used in recipes alongside its international counterparts. Its versatility makes it an excellent substitute for potatoes, pasta, cabbage, and more. In fact, jicama can even step in for apples or pears, making it an ideal addition to salads, slaws, and many other dishes.
One of the standout features of jicama is its ability to be served raw, unlike high-maintenance potatoes that require cooking. This makes it perfect for quick and easy meals, as well as for those looking for a low-carb alternative in their keto diet. Speaking of keto diets, jicama’s natural sweetness and nutty flavor make it an excellent potato substitute, especially when paired with high-fat and adequate-protein foods.
Our list of the best jicama recipes showcases its incredible flexibility, featuring traditional dishes alongside creative departures. From a grain-free mac and cheese to crispy Herb Jicama Chips, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a delicious spring roll or a hearty stew, our 15 jicama recipes will give you the inspiration you need to get creative with this underrated root vegetable.
So, say goodbye to boring breakfasts, standard french fries, and traditional beef stews – it’s time to discover the endless possibilities of jicama!
Keto Air Fryer Jicama Fries
While jicama fries are a well-known and beloved recipe, they’re just the starting point. The real excitement begins when you take them up a notch by adding bold flavors and textures. Baked or fried, jicama fries are always a hit, but it’s the loaded varieties that truly elevate this snack to new heights.
Thai Shrimp Jicama Salad
The versatility of jicama makes it an excellent addition to a variety of dishes, particularly those with Asian inspirations. Its unique flavor profile adds depth and complexity to salads, making it a perfect ingredient for a light and refreshing afternoon snack or a complementary side dish for a main course.
Jicama Bacon
Bacon’s rich flavor profile and briny undertones make it a fan favorite for many. However, not everyone may share the same enthusiasm for this savory delight.
Jicama Mac & Cheese
When it comes to cooking with jicama, it’s natural to feel uncertain about what to make. That’s why I recommend starting with a classic comfort food like macaroni and cheese. By substituting the pasta with jicama, you’ll create a grain-free dish that’s perfect for those on gluten-free diets or simply looking for a low-carb alternative. The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal adjustments to your usual mac and cheese routine.
In fact, many people may be surprised by how well jicama pairs with cheese, as it often takes a backseat in recipes. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy this indulgent, super cheesy meal that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Tropical Jicama Slaw
A classic way to enjoy jicama is in a vibrant salad that combines the crunchy root vegetable with a medley of tropical flavors. The slaw, which makes an excellent side dish or topping, brings together the sweetness of mango, the crunch of cucumber, the zesty punch of lime, the subtle heat of chili flakes, and the creaminess of avocado to create an incredibly refreshing jicama dish. This versatile recipe can be used as a base for a light lunch or as a topping for tacos, sandwiches, and more.
Jicama Potato Salad
In a twist on traditional potato salad, this jicama dill recipe eschews tubers altogether, leveraging the versatile root vegetable’s mild flavor and satisfying crunch instead. The absence of boiling gives this dish a refreshing uniqueness compared to its potato-based counterparts.
One of the most striking differences between this raw jicama salad and a classic potato salad is the method of preparation.
While potatoes are typically boiled until tender, jicama remains uncooked, yielding a texture that’s simultaneously crisper and sweeter than its starchy counterpart. And yet, the resulting flavor profile is no less delectable.
Jicama-Stuffed Avocados
While this dish may appear straightforward, the thoughtfully selected ingredients work harmoniously to deliver a satisfying culinary experience in terms of both texture and flavor profile. The star of the show is the trio of corn, jicama, and a tangy dressing, which finds its way into the avocados’ creamy interior.
Jicama Hashbrown Chaffle
When it comes to jicama recipes, one of the most refreshing ways to start the day is by replacing traditional potatoes with raw jicama. This clever twist adds a burst of freshness to your morning routine.
What’s more, jicama’s versatility knows no bounds – it can be enjoyed at any meal or even as a sweet treat. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert, there’s a jicama recipe out there to satisfy your cravings.
Take your jicama game to the next level by topping your hash with an egg cooked to your liking. This simple yet satisfying combination will have you ditching those potatoes for good. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try pairing it with our jicama bacon recipe for a full-fledged jicama breakfast that’s sure to convert even the most skeptical of souls into a jicama believer.
Spicy Jicama Tortilla Soup
While jicama is often overlooked as a winter ingredient, it’s actually a game-changer when added to soups. This particular recipe, which features shrimp as its protein source, is a great example of this. What’s unique about this soup is the way the jicama is cooked – rather than being chopped raw or roasted until caramelized, it’s boiled lightly to preserve its natural sweetness and texture.
The result is a softer, more palatable jicama that still packs plenty of flavor, making it a perfect addition to this hearty winter soup.
Jicama Churros
Jicama’s sweet side is on full display with our beloved jicama churros recipe, a delightful dessert that proves root vegetables can shine beyond savory dishes. This simple yet indulgent treat requires minimal ingredients, making it an effortless addition to any gathering.
Jicama Tea Sandwiches
When it comes to planning a tea party, you can’t go wrong with traditional favorites like cucumber sandwiches. However, why stick to the same old recipe when you can create a unique twist by incorporating jicama? The unexpected combination of the two may surprise your guests, but trust us, it’s a game-changer. The crunch and freshness of both cucumbers and jicama make for a delightful finger sandwich that’s sure to impress.
Shrimp & Jicama Spring Rolls
When it comes to spring rolls, adding jicama gives them a delightful texture that elevates their appeal as an appetizer or snack. The satisfying crunch from the jicama provides a refreshing contrast to the softness of the roll itself. Furthermore, the harmonious combination of flavors when paired with shrimp makes for a match made in heaven. The sweetness and richness of the dish create a perfect symphony that will leave you craving more.
Jicama Apple Pie
While this recipe doesn’t actually feature apples as an ingredient, that’s not to say it’s lacking in flavor. In fact, you can easily substitute your apple pie filling with a similar preparation of jicama to create a unique and delicious dish. The best part? This baked jicama recipe is incredibly easy to make, and the absence of traditional apples won’t go unnoticed by anyone trying it out.
Among all the sweet jicama recipes I’ve come across, this one stands out as a top contender – its simplicity and lack of detectable apple presence make it a standout in my book.
Mashed Jicama
Mashed jicama can be a delightful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, offering a fresh twist on this beloved comfort food. The sweet, nutty flavor of jicama adds a unique dimension to this Thanksgiving classic, making it an excellent choice for those looking to mix things up. What’s more, jicama is packed with antioxidants and nutrients, providing a nutritious option for those who may have indulged in potatoes a bit too much.
To take it to the next level, top your jicama mash with butter or cheese for an indulgent treat that will warm your belly and put a smile on your face. While this recipe aligns with keto diet principles, its appeal extends far beyond dietary restrictions, making it a great option for anyone looking to spice up their mashed potato game.
Jicama Chips With Citrus Herb Seasoning
Prepare to be smitten with these herb-infused, pan-seared jicama chips that are surprisingly simple to prepare. With a crispy texture and vibrant flavors courtesy of fresh herbs and citrus zest, you’ll be torn between reaching for the bag of Lays or indulging in these delightful homemade treats.
The bottom line
While jicama may not be as well-known as some other root vegetables, its distinct characteristics and versatility make it a valuable addition to any kitchen. With the right recipes, even those who are unfamiliar with this Mexican staple can quickly become converts.
