Zesty Jicama Chili Sticks
Jicama Chili Sticks are a delightful and refreshing snack that embodies the vibrant street food culture of Mexico. Crisp and juicy jicama root is cut into fun stick shapes, then generously sprinkled with zesty lime juice and a spicy kick of chili powder. These cool, crunchy sticks are perfect for warm days or as a low-calorie snack that tantalizes the taste buds. With their juicy texture and vibrant flavors, they are designed to awaken your palate and provide a healthy, hydrating alternative to traditional snack options. Best enjoyed chilled, these jicama sticks make for an invigorating appetizer or a unique addition to a lunch spread, showcasing the natural goodness of fresh produce enhanced by a hint of spice.
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
jicama
1.5 lbs (peeled and cut into sticks)
lime
1 (juiced)
chili powder
1 teaspoon (for sprinkling (more if desired))
Instructions
1
Begin by selecting a firm jicama that is free from any mold and has a pristine white interior.
2
Peel the skin of the jicama using a vegetable peeler and discard the skin.
3
Cut the jicama into manageable pieces, then slice each piece into sticks that measure approximately 3 inches long and ½ inch wide.
4
Arrange the jicama sticks on a layer of paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
5
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the jicama sticks to enhance the flavor and keep them fresh.
6
Sprinkle chili powder over the sticks, adjusting the amount to your heat preference.
7
Arrange the seasoned jicama sticks on a platter and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
8
Serve ice cold as a refreshing snack or appetizer, and enjoy the delightful crunch and vibrant flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Jicama Chili Sticks?
Jicama Chili Sticks are a refreshing Mexican street food snack made from crisp jicama root seasoned with lime and chili powder.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You only need three main ingredients: jicama, lime, and chili powder.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
Is this snack suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is 100% vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Is Jicama Chili Sticks gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How should I select a jicama?
Choose a firm jicama that is free from mold and has a pristine white interior.
How do I peel a jicama?
You can easily remove the skin using a standard vegetable peeler.
What are the recommended dimensions for the sticks?
The jicama should be sliced into sticks approximately 3 inches long and 0.5 inch wide.
Why are paper towels used in the recipe?
Paper towels are used to absorb excess moisture from the jicama sticks before seasoning.
How long should the sticks chill before serving?
The sticks should be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to ensure they are ice cold.
What does jicama taste like?
Jicama has a crisp and juicy texture with a mild flavor, similar to a cross between an apple and a water chestnut.
Can I adjust the spiciness of this snack?
Yes, you can increase or decrease the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference.
Is this a low-calorie snack?
Yes, jicama is naturally low in calories and hydrating, making it a very healthy snack option.
Can I use lemon instead of lime?
While lime is traditional for this Mexican-style snack, lemon can be used as a zesty substitute.
What is the best way to serve Jicama Chili Sticks?
They are best served ice cold on a platter as a refreshing appetizer or snack.
Do I need to cook the jicama?
No, the jicama is served raw to maintain its signature crunch and hydration.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prep the sticks and keep them in the refrigerator, though they are best when seasoned shortly before serving.
How much jicama is required?
This recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of jicama.
What type of chili powder should I use?
Any standard chili powder works, but many enjoy using Mexican chili-lime seasoning for extra flavor.
Is this snack kid-friendly?
Yes, most kids enjoy the crunch, though you may want to use a mild chili powder or omit it for sensitive palates.
Where is this snack commonly found?
This is a popular street food found throughout Mexico.
Is jicama a fruit or a vegetable?
Jicama is a tuberous root vegetable.
Does this recipe contain any cholesterol?
No, the plant-based ingredients in this recipe are cholesterol-free.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the most vibrant and refreshing flavor.
How do I store leftover jicama sticks?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
What makes this snack refreshing?
The combination of the high water content in jicama, the acidic lime juice, and the chilling process makes it very refreshing.
Is this a good snack for warm weather?
Absolutely, it is specifically designed to be cooling and hydrating for warm days.
Can I add salt to this recipe?
Yes, many people add a pinch of salt to further enhance the zesty flavors.
Is jicama difficult to slice?
Once peeled, jicama is relatively easy to slice, similar to a potato or a firm apple.
Can I add other seasonings?
Yes, feel free to experiment with seasonings like paprika or cumin for different flavor profiles.