How Do You Spell JICAMA?

Pronunciation: [d͡ʒɪkˈɑːmə] (IPA)

Jicama (/ˈhɪkəmə/ HIK-ə-mə) is a root vegetable native to Mexico. The spelling of the word has caused confusion as it is often pronounced and spelled in different ways, including "hicama" and "yambean". However, the correct spelling is jicama, which is pronounced as “hi-kah-muh”. The word is derived from the Nahuatl language, where "xicama" means "edible root". Jicama is commonly used in Latin American cuisine, and is known for its crisp, slightly sweet flavor and crunchy texture.

JICAMA Meaning and Definition

  1. Jicama is a noun that refers to a tropical root vegetable botanically known as Pachyrhizus erosus. It is native to Central and South America but is now cultivated in various parts of the world. Also called the Mexican yam bean or Mexican turnip, jicama belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae.

    The jicama tuber is the edible part of the plant, and it is usually round or oblong in shape with a rough brown skin. The flesh of the vegetable is crisp, juicy, and white in color, resembling that of a pear or an apple. Its taste is refreshing and mildly sweet with a hint of nuttiness, making it a versatile ingredient in many dishes.

    Known for its low calorie and high dietary fiber content, jicama is often used as a healthy addition to salads, slaws, and vegetable platters. Due to its excellent crunch and mild flavor, it provides a refreshing contrast in both raw and cooked recipes. It can be eaten raw with a sprinkle of lime juice and chili powder or cooked in stir-fries, soups, and stews.

    In addition to its culinary uses, jicama also has several potential health benefits. It is rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, and contains significant amounts of potassium, iron, and fiber. Some studies suggest that jicama may aid in digestion, promote weight loss, and improve heart health.

    Overall, jicama is a versatile and nutritious root vegetable with a refreshing taste, making it a popular choice in many cuisines around the world.

Common Misspellings for JICAMA

Etymology of JICAMA

The word "jicama" comes from the Nahuatl language, which was spoken by the Aztecs in Mesoamerica. The Nahuatl word for jicama is "xicamatl" (pronounced hee-kah-mahtl), which means "edible root". When Spanish conquistadors encountered the crop in the 16th century, they adopted the Nahuatl term and it eventually became known as "jicama" in Spanish. The word was later borrowed into English.

Idioms with the word JICAMA

  • jicama