Jicama and Celeriac : Both are low carb vegetables

I recently wrote about celeriac, the strange knobbly looking vegetable which has a subtle, celery-like flavour, with nutty overtones. It’s a low carbers favourite, and works well as a mash. The post received a lot of views and comments (thank you) and one comment from Sandi got me thinking, which led to this post. She said “I had never heard of this. It looks a little like jicama. I wonder if they sell it around here.” My reply to her was “yes celeriac and jicama are a little alike”. Jicama and Celeriac are both low carb vegetables.

Jicama is a starchy root vegetable similar to a potato or turnip. The tuberous root tastes slightly sweet, but it is low in sugar, making it a good carbohydrate choice for people with diabetes and others attempting a low-sugar diet. Originally from Mexico, the jicama is sometimes also known as a Mexican turnip or yam bean.

Although the root is safe to eat, the rest of the plant, including the beans, are toxic.

Low-carb and low-calorie: The high water content combined with low sugar and fat makes this a low-calorie food. When combined with the high fibre content, it makes for a great alternative to higher carbohydrate vegetables.

Nutrient dense: It contains a wide variety of vitamins and minerals, especially fibre and potassium. It also contains a high level of Vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant and supports the immune system.

Supports a healthy gut: This tuber is high in a prebiotic called inulin.

Prebiotics are a type of fibre stored in our digestive system to feed probiotics, which are healthy bacteria. Keeping this balance also supports overall health and immune function.

Here is a picture of Jicama, and you can read more about this vegetable here and here

Here is a picture of celeriac, more to read here

Do you use either of these vegetables when cooking?
I haven’t used Jicama but celeriac is often in my menu plans, in fact I may make a Smoked Haddock and Celeriac Layer Bake later this week, you can see the recipe here

Dear reader, there is a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, but please note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health it is always advisable to consult your Doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan