The Mexican Yam Bean

...Otherwise known as Jicama.

Jicama is a crunchy legume that is widely eaten in Latin America, but its popularity is growing here in the United States. Its flavor is somewhat like a starchy apple with a little bit of pear thrown in, making it a great addition to salads and slaws. Because it doesn't discolor when exposed to air, Jicama is an excellent choice on crudite platters. Also, it's fantastic in stir fries.

Now that New England is getting some spring weather we're surely going to start breaking out the grills. The recipe below is for a Jicama Mango Slaw which in my opinion, would pair nicely with a barbecued chicken breast or a spicy chipotle pork chop.

Jicama Mango Slaw

Ingredients:

1 Mango, julienned

1/2 C. Carrots, julienned

1 pound Jicama, peeled and julienned

1 Red bell pepper, seeded and julienned

1/4 C. Cilantro, chopped

1/2 C. Lime juice

TT, Salt and freshly ground pepper

Combine all ingredients and refrigerate until serving. Serves 4.

Recipe from Gourmet Magazine