Air Fryer Jicama Chips: A Healthy, Easy Snack

Jicama, a root vegetable native to Mexico, is a great low-carb alternative to potatoes. With a sweet and nutty flavour, it can be cooked in an air fryer to make crispy and tasty fries. The process is simple: cut the jicama into thin slices, boil or microwave them, add oil and seasonings, and then air-fry until golden. The result is a delicious and healthy snack or side dish that can be served with a variety of dips and sauces.

How to cut jicama for air fryer chips

To cut jicama for air fryer chips, you'll first want to peel the jicama with a vegetable peeler or paring knife. Then, cut the jicama into thin slices, about 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick and 3 to 4 inches long. You can cut the jicama into rounds, and then into spears, before cutting each spear into a smaller matchstick fry. A French fry cutter can also be used to cut the jicama into fries.

How to season jicama chips

There are a variety of ways to season jicama chips. Here are some ideas:

Spices and Herbs

• Garlic powder
• Cumin
• Sea salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Cayenne pepper
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Parsley
• Cilantro

Seasoning Mixes

• Lemon pepper seasoning
• Ranch seasoning
• Cajun seasoning
• Chili powder
• Nutritional yeast
• Parmesan cheese
• Green onions
• Smoked paprika

Oil

• Olive oil
• Avocado oil

Other Seasoning Methods

• Salt and vinegar brine
• Lime juice
• Tajin or chili powder

How long to air fry jicama chips

Air-frying jicama chips is a quick and easy process, but there are a few steps to follow to ensure the best results. Here is a detailed guide on how long to air fry jicama chips:

Preparation:

First, you will need to peel and cut the jicama into thin slices or french-fry-shaped sticks. The recommended size is about 3 to 4 inches long and 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick.

Boiling:

Place the jicama sticks into a pot of boiling water and cook until they are very soft and the colour has changed to a slightly translucent shade. This step is crucial as it ensures the jicama has a similar texture to potatoes. The boiling time will vary depending on the thickness of your jicama sticks, but it should take around 18 to 25 minutes.

Drying:

Once the jicama is soft, remove it from the water and pat it dry with a paper towel. This step is important to ensure the oil and seasonings will stick to the jicama.

Seasoning:

Place the dried jicama in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil or avocado oil. You can also add your preferred seasonings at this point. Some popular seasoning options include garlic powder, cumin, sea salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Toss the jicama until it is evenly coated with oil and seasonings.

Air Frying:

Preheat your air fryer to between 390-400 degrees Fahrenheit (200-204 degrees Celsius). Place the jicama fries into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other. You may need to cook the jicama in batches. Air fry the jicama for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.

Serving:

Enjoy your air-fried jicama chips as a healthy snack or side dish! They go great with sauces like ketchup, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or ranch.

Tips:

• It is important to shake or flip the jicama fries halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• If your jicama is not softening or browning properly during air frying, it may be due to the altitude affecting the boiling process. Try boiling for a longer period of time.
• Don't skip the boiling step! Jicama doesn't cook well when air-fried straight from raw.
• Jicama has a natural sweetness, so be sure to add enough salt and seasonings to balance the flavour.

Air-frying jicama chips is a simple and healthy way to enjoy crispy, delicious chips. By following these steps and timing your air frying correctly, you can ensure perfect jicama chips every time!

How to store leftover jicama chips

Once you've made your jicama chips, you'll want to make sure they stay fresh and crispy. Here's how to store leftover jicama chips:

Refrigeration

Refrigeration is the best option for storing leftover jicama chips. Place the chips in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no exposed surfaces. Store them in the main body of the fridge, not the crisper drawer, and try to use them within a few days for the best quality and flavour. They should last for about 3-5 days.

Freezing

If you have a lot of leftover chips or want to store them for longer, you can freeze them. First, blanch the chips in boiling water for a few minutes to preserve their texture and colour, then immediately cool them in ice water. Drain and pat the chips dry, then place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Label and date the containers, and they should last in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Storing in Water

If you want to keep your chips hydrated and prevent them from drying out, you can store them in water. Place the chips in a container of clean water, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover the container and store it in the fridge, changing the water daily. The chips should stay fresh for 2-3 days.

Tips for Storing Jicama Chips

• Choose an airtight container or resealable bag that is specifically designed for food storage to prevent odour transfer.
• Don't wash the jicama before storing, as excess moisture can lead to spoilage. Wash and dry it just before using.
• If storing in the fridge, keep the jicama away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavour cross-contamination.
• Regularly check the jicama for any signs of spoilage, such as soft spots, discolouration, mould, or an off smell.

By following these storage methods, you can enjoy your leftover jicama chips for longer and prevent waste!

What to serve with jicama chips

Jicama chips are a great low-calorie snack and can be served with a variety of dips and sauces. Here are some ideas for what to serve with your jicama chips:

Dips and Sauces

You can serve your jicama chips with a variety of dips and sauces, such as:

• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Hummus
• Bean dip
• Sugar-free ketchup
• Garlic aioli
• Spicy mayo
• Ranch dressing
• Lime juice

Main Dishes

Jicama chips can also be served as a side dish or appetizer with a variety of main courses, such as:

• Burgers
• Steak
• Chicken
• Pizza
• Black bean burger

Other Ideas

In addition to dips and main dishes, here are some other ideas for what to serve with jicama chips:

• Mix jicama chips with regular tortilla chips to offer a healthier option at a party.
• Try different seasonings and toppings on your jicama chips, such as chili powder, kosher salt, nutritional yeast, parmesan cheese, fresh cilantro, green onions, smoked paprika, or parsley.

Frequently asked questions