Jicama fries are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional potato fries. Packed with fiber, low in calories, and naturally sweet, they make for a guilt-free snack or side dish. In this guide, we’ll explore three methods to cook jicama fries: in the oven, in an air fryer, and on the stove. Each method brings out the unique texture and flavor of this versatile root vegetable.
1. How to Cook Jicama Fries in Oven
Ingredients
- 1 jicama, peeled and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional seasonings (such as paprika, garlic powder, or cumin)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss the jicama cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings you prefer.
Spread the seasoned jicama cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the jicama is golden brown and tender, stirring halfway through.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy the roasted jicama as a delicious and healthy snack or as a side dish to accompany your favorite main course.
2. How to Cook Jicama Fries in an Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 jicama, peeled and cut into sticks or wedges
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional seasonings (such as chili powder, paprika, or garlic powder)
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss the jicama sticks or wedges with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings you desire.
Place the seasoned jicama in the air fryer basket in a single layer, without overcrowding.
Cook the jicama in the air fryer for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
Remove the crispy jicama from the air fryer and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Serve the air-fried jicama as a tasty appetizer, or as a side dish to complement your favorite main course.
3. How to Cook Jicama Fries on Stove
Ingredients
- 1 medium jicama, peeled and sliced into thin fries
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for extra crunch)
- 3–4 tablespoons olive oil or any frying oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Jicama
Peel and Slice: Remove the tough skin of the jicama and cut it into thin, even fries.
Parboil the Jicama: Boil the jicama slices in salted water for 8–10 minutes to soften them slightly. This step ensures the inside cooks well during frying.
Drain and Dry: Drain the jicama and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Moisture will interfere with frying.
Step 2. Toss and Coat
Mix Seasonings: In a bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Optional Starch Coating: Toss the jicama fries in cornstarch for a light, crispy coating. Shake off any excess.
Oil and Season: Drizzle the fries with 1 tablespoon of oil and toss with the seasoning mixture to coat evenly.
Step 3. First Fry (Cook and Set)
Heat the Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Fry in Batches: Place the jicama fries in a single layer in the pan, ensuring they don’t overcrowd. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden.
Remove and Drain: Transfer the fries to a paper towel-lined plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This step helps set the exterior.
Step 4. Second Fry (Crispy Finish)
Increase Heat: Add a little more oil to the skillet if needed and heat it to high.
Refry the Jicama: Add the partially cooked fries back to the pan in batches. Fry for 1–2 minutes per side, or until deeply golden and crispy.
Drain Again: Transfer the fries to fresh paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 5. Serve
Sprinkle the hot fries with a pinch of salt or extra seasoning if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or ketchup.
With these three cooking methods, I hope that you can enjoy jicama fries no matter what kitchen tools you have on hand. Give them a try and discover your favorite way to prepare this nutritious snack!
