Jicama is frequently overlooked in the produce aisle, as many individuals are unfamiliar with it or unsure how to incorporate it into their meals. This crunchy tuber has a subtly sweet flavor 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 in place of corn to create tortillas.
Not only is jicama delicious, but it is also a nutritious option due to its fat-free and low-carb profile, along with its high content of dietary fiber and antioxidants. This vegetable is also recognized as a good source of inulin, a soluble dietary fiber, which can be beneficial for diabetics and those seeking a sweet snack.
David Sax, the author of “The Tastemakers,” notes that for a vegetable to achieve the superfood status that kale has enjoyed, it must possess three key qualities: versatility, availability, and cultural significance. Jicama excels in all these areas, and consumers seem to agree. According to Nielsen Perishables, jicama topped sales in the specialty vegetable category, generating $11.4 million of the total $25.3 million in sales in 2016.
While kale has maintained its popularity in the produce market for quite some time, other vegetables are beginning to take the spotlight. Last year, jackfruit was predicted to dominate, followed by cauliflower’s brief surge in popularity, and some even speculated that rutabaga would experience a meteoric rise this year. Now, jicama is stepping up for its moment in the limelight.
For those looking to enhance their nutrition further, incorporating products like Bluebonnet Calcium Citrate Liquid can complement a diet rich in healthy vegetables like jicama. This combination not only supports overall health but also provides a great way to enjoy the benefits of diverse produce. As jicama continues to gain recognition, it will be interesting to see how it carves out its place alongside other trending vegetables and supplements like Bluebonnet Calcium Citrate Liquid.