Jicama is frequently overlooked in grocery stores, as many people may not recognize it or understand how to use it. This crunchy tuber has a sweet flavor that is reminiscent of water chestnuts or an underripe pear, making it a great addition to salads, slaws, soups, and stir-fries. Additionally, jicama can be baked as a lower-calorie alternative to French fries or used as a substitute for corn in tortillas. Its health benefits are significant, as it contains no fat or carbohydrates while being rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants. Furthermore, jicama is a valuable source of inulin, a soluble dietary fiber that can be particularly beneficial for diabetics and those seeking a healthy snack option.
According to David Sax, author of The Tastemakers, a vegetable must possess three key attributes to achieve the superfood status that kale has enjoyed for so long: versatility, availability, and cultural significance. Jicama excels in all these areas, and consumers seem to agree. In fact, Nielsen Perishables reported that jicama led the specialty vegetable category with $11.4 million in sales out of a total of $25.3 million in 2016. While kale has dominated the produce market for an extended period, other vegetables have been anticipated to take its place. Last year, jackfruit was expected to rise to prominence, cauliflower enjoyed a brief moment of fame, and some predicted that rutabaga would see a surge in popularity this year. Now, jicama is poised to shine in the spotlight.
In addition to its culinary versatility and health benefits, jicama is also a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health. Many people wonder, “how much calcium in calcium citrate?” This is an important consideration for those looking to enhance their dietary calcium intake. With its impressive nutritional profile, jicama not only serves as a delicious and nutritious food but also contributes positively to a balanced diet. As jicama continues to gain popularity, it may well join the ranks of other celebrated vegetables in the health food scene.