Jicama

Also indexed as: Mexican Potato

Preparation, uses, and tips

Wash and peel just before using, as the flesh darkens when exposed to air. Add sliced or grated jicama to salads, or cut it in cubes and serve it with a squeeze of lime juice and a dusting of chilli powder. It’s a good substitute for water chestnuts in stir-fry dishes.

Buying and storing tips

Jicama can be found in the fruits and vegetables section of most health food stores, specialty markets, and supermarkets. Look for heavy, dense roots and smooth skin. Store it in a cool, dry place; too much moisture will cause mould.

Varieties

Jicama varies somewhat in size.

Nutrition Highlights

Jicama (raw, sliced), 1 cup (100g)
Calories: 46
Protein: 0.86g
Carbohydrate: 10.6g
Total Fat: 0.11g
Fiber: 5.8g
*Excellent source of: Vitamin C (24mg)

*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value, based upon United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the USDA Recommended Daily Value. Nutritional information and daily nutritional guidelines may vary in different countries. Please consult the appropriate organization in your country for specific nutritional values and the recommended daily guidelines.

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The information presented in the Food Guide is for informational purposes only and was created by a team of US–registered dietitians and food experts. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.