Skip to main content

Grilled Jicama Tacos

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with our twist on traditional tacos, featuring grilled jicama as a crunchy and refreshing main component.

The Story Behind Grilled Jicama

In Mexican cuisine, jicama is often used in salads or as a crudité for dips. However, its potential extends far beyond these roles. When grilled, the natural sweetness of jicama becomes amplified, making it an ideal base for tacos. By pairing this succulent ingredient with other staples like cilantro, lime juice, and spicy peppers, you'll discover a new favorite way to enjoy this versatile root.

Preparing Grilled Jicama Tacos​

Ingredients:​

  • 2 large jicamas
  • Vegetable oil or non-stick cooking spray for grilling
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 8-10 corn tortillas
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: diced onions, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced avocado, or other desired toppings

Instructions:​

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Peel the jicamas and cut them into 1/4-inch thick slices.
  3. Brush both sides of the jicama with oil or non-stick cooking spray.
  4. Place the jicama on the grill, in a single layer if possible, and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until they develop a nice char and tender texture.
  5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating them in the oven for a few minutes.
  6. Assemble the tacos by placing a slice of grilled jicama onto each tortilla, then topping with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and any desired toppings.

Serving Suggestions​

  • Offer additional toppings like diced onions, sour cream, shredded cheese, or diced avocado to allow guests to customize their tacos.
  • Pair the Grilled Jicama Tacos with a refreshing drink, such as aguas frescas or Mexican beer.
  • Consider serving these tacos at a casual gathering or outdoor event, where the vibrant flavors and textures can shine.

Grilled Jicama Variations

Experimenting with different flavor combinations is all part of the fun when creating your own Grilled Jicama Tacos. Some ideas to consider:

  • Add some smokiness by incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
  • Spice things up with diced jalapeños or serrano peppers.
  • Mix some crumbled queso fresco into the jicama for added creaminess.
  • Top your tacos with a dollop of spicy salsa or a sprinkle of cilantro.

Tips and Tricks

To ensure that your Grilled Jicama Tacos turn out perfectly, remember these tips:

  • Be gentle when handling the jicamas to avoid bruising them.
  • Don't overcrowd the grill, as this can cause the jicama to steam instead of char.
  • Keep an eye on the tortillas while they're warming up, as they can quickly go from warm to burnt.

Grilled Jicama Tacos are a delicious way to experience the flavors and traditions of Mexico. By experimenting with different ingredients and flavor combinations, you'll discover that this dish is truly greater than the sum of its parts.