Question on jicama

[English Tracy]

I can't find this in the SE of England under that name. Is it the same as cassava, as I've found that in asian and west indian shops?

I want to try Alissa's potato salad but need to make sure I'm using the right base ingredient.

Thanks.

Tracy

[Sheryl]

It doesn't appear to be cassava (also known as yucca). Cassava looks more like a sweet potato shape. Jicama is more like a lumpy beet and a dark cream on the outside. Jicama is also sweet, high water content and crunchy.

What did they say when you asked?
Sheryl

[English Tracy]

I didn't go into the shop but the item was on a display at the front as I was rushing past. It's an area I'm not usually in but I could try to go back to the store and ask.

Tracy

[Veganforlife]

No. Cassava is definitely not Jicama. Do a google search, using images and you will see the difference. Cassava look like brown carrots, and Jicama are really round.
Why can't you use parsnips in Alissa's recipe? I know England has them! ;) Try it. Why not? You may have created an awesome recipe...

[Sharon in Colorado]

Jicama looks like this. Usually around 4-6" in diameter.

[English Tracy]

Thanks for the pictures Sharon in Colorado. I didn't realise jicamas looked like that!! That will help when I next pass the oriental/asian food shops.

Veganfor life - I may well try the recipe with parsnips although native UK parsnips are not in season until later in the year. I find that imported fruit and vegetables never taste as nice as what is home grown.

Thanks.

Tracy

[Spectatrix]

From Wikipedia: Other common names for the jÃ*cama include sengkwang, "yacon", "yam bean", Mexican potato and Mexican turnip. In the Philippines, it is referred to as singkamas.

That might help you find it. :)

[English Tracy]

Spectatrix - I've seen packets of dried yacon root for sale from one of the online Raw outlets (Raw Living) in the UK. So now I know what it is!! It tastes quite nice dried so I will definitely keep an eye out for a fresh jicama.

Thanks.

Tracy