Sweet ‘n Spicy Jicama Slaw

Sweet ‘n Spicy Jicama Slaw

Jica-who? Jicama! Pronounced hecema, I love it and you should too!  There are so many health benefits that are associated with this little taproot tuber that will blow your mind.

Let’s review…

• Low calorie – 35 calories per 100 grams
• Packed with high quality phytonutrients
• It is said the carbs in these beauty’s do not metabolize in the body making them a sound decision for those who follow low carb plans
• Rich in Vitamin C
• Contains small amounts of trace minerals

Why do I personally like Jicama?  Even before I found out all of the wonderful benefits of them, I have very fond memories of eating them sliced and dipped in ranch as an after school snack.  I felt like I was the queen of an exotic island nibbling on the the lands harvest.  They are sweet, very hydrated and have a texture somewhat similar to an apple.  They are very versatile as well.  They are perfect raw, my favorite, or they can be cooked into sweet or savory dishes.  Let’s pause and all hail the Jicama………………..

Excellent! I have paired them with red cabbage, a few carrots and an amazing date and jalapeno vinaigrette dressing that is sweet at the bite and catches a little heat on the back end.  In my humble opinion, perfection! As the husband proclaimed, it has the addictive heat.  Good job husband, good job.

A few mentions regarding the recipe instructions.  My local markets that I visit usually have cabbage that has already been cut in half available for purchase.  However, did you know that you can ask the produce department to cut them in half for you? Well, you can! They will be happy to do so since cabbage is usually sold by the pound.  Also, I have found that certain extra virgin olive oil’s, depending on the brand that I purchase, can produce different results.  That being said, should you find that your vinaigrette is not as fluid as you would like it to be, you can adjust this by adding additional rice vinegar in small increments. If you were to add oil, which I advise that you don’t, it will overwhelm the overall taste to the dish and will not be too pleasing to the palate.

Unlike most coleslaw’s that I tend to make, consume, bring to pot-lucks, place on burgers, etc., this slaw is made with absolutely no refined sugar or mayonnaise! That being said, I think this tasty side dish is pretty healthy and has a lip-smack factor of 10! I’m pretty proud of this creation and patted myself on the back as best I could.  I hope you enjoy!

One last close up before we go…..

Did I mention this sweet ‘n spicy Jicama slaw is fantastic the next day as well?  Let all the flavors meld further and it is heaven!

What are we waiting for?  Let’s get cooking! (or chopping and blending in this case) 🙂