Hola! EatUrXica’s Ingenious American Welcome to Mexican Jícama

(Gerry Furth-Sides, EatUrXica content) Jicama, the healthy, crispy root vegetable so familiar to the Latin table for so long, is not only natural and tasty but adds sweetness and crunch to salads and stir-fries. The root vegetable has the neutral taste of an unsweetened apple. It’ s the perfect new or new version to try in November for National Diabetic Month since it is helps manage glucose levels.  

A natural prebiotic, jícama provides nutrients to help support gut health. It also boosts immunity and is heart-healthy. jícama makes the perfect addition to any Paleo, Whole 30 or low-sugar diet.

So welcome Jícama Pachyrhizus erosus, the native Mexican vine commonly known as jícama Mexican turnip. This name most commonly refers to the plant’s edible tuberous root. Jícama is a species in the Pachyrhizus erosus in the pea family.

One way to make the “Indian summer” last longer:  A quick and easy recipe for “Jícama “fries.”  We substituted Pimenton de la Vera, from Spain, for the Tajin.  It gave it an extra sweet kick that contrasted beautifully with the limes.

Yield: 2 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes Rest Time: 0-15 minutes Total Time: 5-15 minutes

Ingredients:

·         2 cups pre-cut  EatUrXica Jícama (as pictured)

·         juice from 3–4 key limes (regular limes work too)

·         1 tsp Tajin sprinkled on to taste. We love the Spanish Pimenton de la Vera, sweet pepper for an added smoky, sweet flavor)

– Tajin is a delicious Mexican spice mix of salt, chili peppers and dehydrated lime.

Instructions: Combine all ingredients and let rest for about 15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to really set in, but you can eat it right away too!

Fresh EatUrXica jicama wraps (and jicama spears) can be found locally at Whole Foods and Smart & Finals around Los Angeles.

EatUrXica jicama wraps make easy and healthy alt-taco recipes. They can be used in place of a traditional hard or soft taco shells). Jicama also works on tacos, recently featured as one of America’s Top 50 favorite foods.

Fresh EatUrXica jicama wraps (and jicama spears) can be found locally at Whole Foods around Los Angeles.

Take the wraps for a spin by using them in a few of our favorite alt-taco recipes: Surimi Tacos, Mango Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, and Chicken Tacos (BBQ that chicken!).

A delicious side to pair with your jicama tacos is Mexican staple dish: Red Jicama Aguachile (similar to a ceviche) or the Jicama Avocado Grapefruit Salad.