jícama, (Pachyrhizus erosus), also called yam bean, leguminous vine of the pea family (Fabaceae), grown for its edible tubers.
What is another name for jicama?
There are many names for jicama, including “yam bean,” “Mexican turnip” and “Chinese potato.” The Spanish word “jicama” comes from the Nahuatl (Aztec) xicama.
Is jicama a yam?
Originally from Mexico, the jicama is sometimes also known as a Mexican turnip or yam bean. Although the root is safe to eat, the rest of the plant, including the beans, are toxic. In this article, we discuss some of the potential health benefits of eating jicama.
What kind of vegetable is yam bean?
The yam bean is a legume but unlike its close relatives the soybean and other beans, the yam bean is cultivated for its large, tuberous roots. The pods are toxic when mature but can be used as a vegetable when young.
What is yam bean used for?
There is no known medicinal uses of yam bean but it is often cultivated for food. The root is eaten raw or cooked. It is crisp, sweet, and juicy. Starch extracted from the roots is used in custards and puddings.
What is jicama called in English?
Other names for jicama include yam bean, Mexican potato, Mexican water chestnut and Chinese turnip.
What do u call a jicama in English?
There are two ways, really: “HICK-ah-mah” or “HEE-kah-mah.” Both are correct. Both are equally fun to say. You might also see this vegetable called “yam bean,” “Mexican yam,” or “Mexican turnip.” Jicama is the edible tuberous root of a vine native to Mexico.
Can you eat raw yam bean?
Yam beans can be consumed ways – either raw form or cooked form. Yam beans are loaded with vitamins and minerals, have high nutritional value, and offer many health benefits. Yams bean taste closer to an apple and are a best source of Vitamin C. Yam beans are low in calories but very high in essential nutrients.
How poisonous is jicama?
The jicama skin should be removed before eating as the skin can be toxic. The leaves and seeds also contain mild toxins. When cooked, jicama retains its crisp, water chestnut-like texture.
What is yam bean fruit?
Jicama (pronounced HEE-kah-ma) is sometimes referred to as yam bean and is an edible globe-shaped root vegetable that is part of the legume family and native to Central America. There, it is often sold by street vendors and seasoned with lime juice and chili powder as a refreshing snack.
What happens if you eat too much jicama?
Jicama contains huge fiber content and so excessive consumption leads to digestive disorders like constipation and stomach ache. It is not advisable for people to eat the outer peels of jicama as it contains a highly toxic compound.
What can I use in place of jicama?
If you are looking for a raw substitute for jicama, try daikon radish or Jerusalem artichokes. If you need a replacement for a certain cooked meal, try water chestnuts since they are nearly identical both cooked and raw, although they are slightly sweeter.
Is jicama an inflammatory?
It may help combat inflammation
Because of its vitamin C content, jicama can also help fight inflammation. We cause some inflammation ourselves, even through healthy activities like exercise.
What is African yam bean?
African yam bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa (Hochst ex. A. Rich.) Harms) is an annual legume with the capacity to produce bean seeds in a pod and produce tubers with varying seed patterns and colors.
Is jicama better for you than a potato?
People often compare jicama to potatoes because their flesh is similar. But jicama is much healthier and has far fewer carbohydrates. Fun way to get fiber.
Is jicama a nightshade?
Now To The BIG Question: Is Jicama A Nightshade Vegetable? Jicama spuds are part of the nightshade family, a group of vegetables that contain alkaloids, which have an impact on nerve-muscle function, joint function and digestive function—accelerating an existing inflammatory condition.
What is a Mexican potato called?
Jicama (HEE-kah-ma), sometimes referred to as yam bean, Mexican turnip, or Mexican potato, is an edible root vegetable native to Mexico. In Central America, jicama is often sold by street vendors and commonly eaten raw, and seasoned with lemon or lime juice and chili powder.
Can dogs eat yam bean?
Fresh jicama root is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich snack that can enhance your pet’s regular dog food. Endemic to Mexico, South America, and Central America, this root vegetable goes by other names, too, including Mexican yam bean, Mexican turnip, and Mexican potato.
Is it safe to eat jicama raw?
Jicama is a very crisp, refreshing root vegetable most frequently eaten raw. I like to compare it to a non-sweet apple — a little watery and neutral in taste but so crunchy. It can be a little nutty; some people compare it to a water chestnut with that refreshing, crunchy, juicy crispness.
Is jicama good for acid reflux?
According to studies conducted by the University of Maryland, jicama salad is ideal for people suffering from acid reflux due to the action of lemon juice. Lemon juice helps in reducing the symptoms of heartburn.
Is yam a keto bean?
Answer: Despite being a root vegetable, jicama is keto-friendly. The jicama is a root vegetable native to Mexico. It’s otherwise known as “Mexican yam bean” or “Mexican turnip.” Although most root vegetables are forbidden on keto, jicama is one of the few exceptions.