Delicious & Healthy: Air Fryer Jicama Fries with Cilantro-Lime Dipping Sauce

Craving crispy, satisfying fries but looking for a low-carb, healthy alternative to potatoes? Look no further! This comprehensive guide introduces you to the wonderful world of air fryer jicama fries. Air frying jicama is a fantastic way to enhance the natural sweetness of this unique root vegetable, transforming it into a delightful snack or side dish. Even if you’ve never been a fan of raw jicama, this air fryer jicama fries recipe might just change your mind!

Get ready to enjoy a guilt-free treat, perfectly seasoned with Tajín and paired with a creamy, zesty cilantro-lime dipping sauce. It’s an explosion of flavor and texture that caters to a variety of dietary needs, including low-carb, keto, vegetarian, gluten-free, and Weight Watchers.

We’re thrilled to share this recipe for air fried jicama fries because they’ve become an absolute favorite in our kitchen! While we appreciate the refreshing crunch of raw jicama sticks, often enjoyed simply with a sprinkle of chili-lime seasoning like Tajín, not everyone in our household shares the same enthusiasm. This air frying method has successfully converted even the pickiest eaters, making jicama a beloved staple for everyone.

The magic happens in the air fryer: jicama softens slightly while still retaining its delightful crispness, and its subtle sweetness becomes more pronounced. Unlike traditional potato fries that can sometimes turn limp, jicama fries maintain an incredibly satisfying bite. Plus, they offer a naturally sweeter profile than typical potato fries, making them an excellent choice for a fresh, low-carb french fry option.

🤔 What is Jicama? A Root Vegetable Delight

Jicama (pronounced HEE-kuh-muh) is a fascinating and versatile root vegetable native to Mexico and Central America. It’s often referred to as the Mexican yam bean or Mexican turnip. Characterized by its thin, brown outer skin and crisp, white, edible flesh, jicama offers a refreshing crunch and a mildly sweet, nutty flavor profile. While it shares some textural similarities with a crisp apple or pear, its taste is often compared to a water chestnut, making it wonderfully adaptable for both savory and slightly sweet dishes.

Unlike potatoes, jicama is a non-starchy vegetable, making it an excellent choice for those mindful of carbohydrate intake. It’s rich in fiber, particularly a type of dietary fiber called inulin, which acts as a prebiotic, supporting gut health. Jicama also provides a good source of Vitamin C, potassium, and other essential nutrients, making it a highly nutritious addition to any diet.

⭐ Unbeatable Benefits of This Air Fryer Jicama Fries Recipe

This air fryer jicama recipe isn’t just a snack; it’s a complete culinary experience that brings a multitude of benefits to your table. Here’s why these healthy jicama fries will become your new go-to:

• Perfect Texture & Flavor: Enjoy perfectly sweet and satisfyingly crispy jicama fries every time. The air fryer coaxes out a delicate sweetness that raw jicama doesn’t always reveal, while ensuring a delightful crunch that far surpasses soggy potato fries.
• Flavorful Seasoning: A generous dusting of chili-lime seasoning, like Tajín, elevates these fries from simple to sensational. The tangy, spicy kick complements the jicama’s mild sweetness beautifully, making Tajín jicama fries far more exciting than plain salted varieties.
• Cooling & Creamy Dip: The homemade cilantro-lime dipping sauce is a game-changer. Made with regular plain yogurt, fresh cilantro, vibrant lime juice, and aromatic lime zest, it offers a cool, creamy, and zesty counterpoint to the seasoned fries. This dip isn’t just delicious; it adds a refreshing element that balances every bite.
• Diet-Friendly: This recipe is incredibly versatile and accommodates various dietary preferences. It’s inherently low-carb and keto-friendly, making it an ideal choice for those managing blood sugar or following specific nutritional plans. It’s also naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, and fits well within Weight Watchers guidelines due to its high fiber and low-calorie content.
• Quick & Easy Preparation: With minimal prep and active cooking time, you can whip up a batch of these delectable fries in under 40 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Nutrient-Packed: Jicama is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in fiber, antioxidants, and Vitamin C, contributing to overall health and wellness. This recipe makes it enjoyable to increase your vegetable intake.

Seriously, this might become one of your all-time favorite air fryer creations. These “baked” jicama fries are truly delicious, healthy, and incredibly satisfying!

🥘 Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Jicama Fries

Gathering your ingredients for these incredible jicama fries is simple. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful snack:

For the Jicama Fries:

• Jicama: Look for a firm, round jicama with smooth, unblemished skin. One pound (approximately one small jicama) is usually enough for two servings.
• Olive Oil: A tablespoon of good quality olive oil helps the jicama crisp up beautifully and ensures the seasoning adheres. You can also use other high-smoke point cooking oils like canola oil or avocado oil.
• Tajín: This popular chili-lime seasoning blend is the secret weapon for authentic flavor. Its balanced blend of mild chili peppers, lime, and sea salt adds an irresistible tang and subtle heat. If you don’t have Tajín, any similar chili-lime seasoning will work.
• Cooking Oil Spray: A non-aerosol cooking oil spray is recommended for air frying. It helps achieve extra crispiness without adding too much oil and protects the non-stick coating of your air fryer basket or tray. Avoid aerosol sprays as they can damage some air fryer finishes over time.

You can typically find jicama in the international or exotic produce section of larger grocery stores. Hispanic markets are also an excellent source for fresh jicama.

Detailed quantities for each ingredient can be found in the full recipe card below.

🧂 The Zesty Cilantro-Lime Dipping Sauce

While the seasoned jicama fries are fantastic on their own, the creamy cilantro-lime dipping sauce truly elevates this dish. It’s a fresh, vibrant, and cooling accompaniment that perfectly balances the spicy tang of the Tajín. Here’s what you’ll need to create this irresistible dip:

• Regular Plain Yogurt: Opt for regular plain yogurt, not Greek yogurt. Regular yogurt has a thinner consistency that creates a smoother, more pourable sauce. For a vegan option, simply substitute with your favorite plain plant-based yogurt.
• Finely Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note that is essential for this sauce’s authentic flavor. Ensure it’s finely chopped for an even distribution throughout the dip.
• Fresh Lime Juice: The juice from a freshly squeezed lime provides a critical burst of acidity and citrusy brightness.
• Lime Zest: Don’t skip the zest! It adds an intense lime aroma and flavor that fresh juice alone cannot provide.

This dip can be made in just minutes and complements the jicama fries beautifully, whether you prefer to dip each fry or drizzle the sauce generously over the entire serving.

⚙️ Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Making these air fryer jicama fries requires minimal specialized equipment. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Air Fryer: Any brand of air fryer will work, whether it’s a basket-style model like the Ninja Foodi, Philips, Nuwave, or Cosori, or an oven-style air fryer like the Instant Pot Vortex or Breville. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly between different models, so it’s always a good idea to check your food a few minutes early the first time you try a new recipe.
• Y-Peeler: Essential for quickly and safely removing the tough outer skin of the jicama.
• Sharp Knife or Crinkle Cutter: A good knife is crucial for cutting the jicama into uniform fry shapes. For a fun, crinkled texture that also increases surface area for crispiness, a crinkle cutter is an excellent option.
• Mixing Bowl: For tossing the jicama with olive oil.
• Whisk: To combine the ingredients for your creamy dipping sauce.

🔪 Step-by-Step: How to Air Fry Jicama Fries

Preparing jicama fries in the air fryer is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfectly crispy and flavorful results:

⏲️ Optimal Air Fryer Time and Temperature

6

Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

While your fries are air frying, whisk together the plain yogurt, finely chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and lime zest in a small bowl. This creates your vibrant cilantro-lime dipping sauce. We love to drizzle this creamy sauce generously over the cooked jicama fries, but it’s equally delicious served on the side for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful jicama snack!

📖 Air Fryer Jicama Fries with Dipping Sauce Recipe

A low-carb, keto-friendly alternative to potato fries, these air fryer jicama fries are seasoned with Tajín and served with a creamy cilantro-lime dipping sauce.

Author: Summer Yule

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 25 mins

Total Time: 35 mins

Course: Snack

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Servings: 2

Calories: 157 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 lb jicama (454 grams; about 1 small jicama)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Tajín (to taste; can use another chili-lime seasoning blend)
• ¼ cup yogurt, plain, low-fat (regular yogurt, not Greek varieties)
• 1½ tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• ¼ teaspoon lime zest
• cooking oil spray

Instructions

1. Cut both ends off of the jicama, and peel all of the brown skin away. Cut the white flesh into ½-inch thick fry shapes (1.27 cm).
2. Put the sticks of jicama in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Stir gently to coat with the oil.
3. Mist an air fryer baking tray with the cooking oil spray. Spread the raw jicama fries in a single layer on the tray.
4. Put the tray in the top rack of the air fryer oven and bake for 10 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Then flip the fries over, mist them with the cooking spray oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) on the top rack for an additional 10 minutes.
5. While the fries cook, whisk the yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest together. Refrigerate this cilantro-lime dipping sauce while you finish the fries.
6. Pull the fries that have finished cooking off the tray. Since jicamas are not shaped like a rectangular block, some fries will naturally be smaller (and cook faster) than others.
7. Flip the fries left on the tray that are not done. Mist them with the cooking oil spray, and bake at 400°F (200°C) on the top rack for 5 more minutes.
8. When done, sprinkle your fries liberally with the Tajín.
9. Drizzle the fries with the cilantro-lime dipping sauce (or use it as a dip).
10. Sprinkling on even more Tajín might not be a bad idea! You could also add a squeeze of lime juice, if desired. YUM!

Notes from Dietitian Summer Yule

This recipe is considered a level 2 recipe (transition or weight maintenance). Jicama is a fantastic high-fiber, low-calorie vegetable rich in antioxidants, making it a nutritious and healthy choice for most people.

The serving sizes in this recipe are generous, encouraging a higher intake of vegetables. These air-fried jicama fries are perfect as a light snack or a versatile side dish. They pair wonderfully with dishes like air fryer frozen burritos or a Taco Bell beefy 5-layer burrito copycat.

For a slightly higher-energy snack, you can use full-fat yogurt in the dipping sauce. Or, if you’re like me, you might just want to enjoy all the jicama fries yourself! 😉

Nutrition information is provided for one serving of the recipe, including the dip.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 157kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 2.3g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Potassium: 347.2mg | Fiber: 11.1g | Vitamin A: 3.5% DV | Vitamin C: 77.8% DV | Calcium: 3.3% DV | Iron: 7.6% DV

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📋 Understanding Carbs in Jicama Fries

A common question among those following low-carb diets is, “Does jicama have carbs?” The answer is yes, like all vegetables, jicama contains carbohydrates. However, it’s considered a low-carb vegetable, especially when compared to potatoes. One generous serving of these air fryer jicama fries, including the delightful dipping sauce, contains approximately 157 calories, 10.9 grams of net carbs, and 2.3 grams of protein.

Jicama is particularly rich in dietary fiber, which significantly contributes to its low net carb count. Fiber not only aids digestion and promotes satiety but also doesn’t impact blood sugar levels in the same way digestible carbohydrates do. This makes jicama an excellent choice for individuals on keto, low-carb, or weight management diets looking for delicious and crunchy alternatives to traditional starchy foods.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Jicama Fries

Do I need to boil jicama for fries?

Absolutely not! A fantastic benefit of these low-carb jicama fries in the air fryer is that they are a no-boil recipe. There’s truly no need for a pre-boil step when making air fryer jicama fries, saving you time and effort in the kitchen while still achieving excellent texture.

How to bake jicama fries in the oven?

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can easily make oven-baked jicama fries. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After preparing the jicama and coating it with oil as described in the air fryer recipe, spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning and crispiness. Remember to coat them well in oil to help them brown and get crispy edges.

Can you freeze jicama?

Yes, you can freeze jicama! Some cooks have found success in freezing raw jicama. To do so, cut and freeze raw jicama sticks in a single layer on a tray lined with freezer paper or parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag, pressing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn and sticking. Make sure to let them fully thaw before attempting this recipe.

Cooked jicama fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat them, lightly spray with cooking oil spray and warm them on the stovetop or in the air fryer until they regain their crispiness.

How to make air fryer jicama chips?

If you’re looking for jicama chips (or “crisps” in the UK) with a thin, crispy texture, you’ll need to slice the jicama very thinly, ideally with a mandoline for uniform thickness. Spray the thin slices well with cooking oil on both sides. Arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket or tray. Air fry at 400°F (200°C), checking and flipping them every 3-5 minutes. They will crisp up quickly, so watch them closely to prevent burning. Cook until golden and crisp to your liking.

How to make a vegan jicama fries air fryer recipe?

This recipe is incredibly easy to adapt for a vegan diet. The jicama fries themselves are naturally vegan and dairy-free if you simply omit the dipping sauce. For a vegan dipping option, you can use classic condiments like ketchup or BBQ sauce. Alternatively, substitute the dairy yogurt in our cilantro-lime dip with your favorite plain plant-based yogurt (such as almond milk or coconut milk yogurt) to maintain the creamy texture and flavor profile.

Why are my fries not crispy in the air fryer?

If you’re accustomed to air-frying potato french fries, you might sometimes find them a bit chewy or less crispy than desired. This is largely due to the starch content in potatoes, which can lead to a softer interior. One of the great advantages of air fryer jicama fries is their inherent texture: jicama doesn’t get as soft as potatoes do when cooked. This means your jicama fries will always retain a satisfying crispness and will never turn soggy, making them a consistently crunchy and delightful snack.

Can you deep fry jicama?

Yes, you can certainly deep fry jicama, and it will achieve a crispy texture. However, deep frying involves a lot more oil and can be quite messy. The beauty of making jicama baked fries in the air fryer or oven is that you achieve a wonderfully crunchy result with significantly less oil and fuss. Why not save yourself the extra calories and cleanup of deep frying, and opt for the healthier, more convenient air frying method instead?

What are some other jicama recipes?

If you’ve enjoyed this unique jicama recipe for the air fryer, you’ll be happy to know that jicama is incredibly versatile! It’s fantastic in various applications, offering its signature crunch and mild flavor. Here are a few other popular ways to enjoy jicama:

• Jicama Slaw: A refreshing alternative to traditional coleslaw, often featuring a vibrant mix of fruits and vegetables.
• Jicama Salad: Perfect for adding a crisp texture to green salads or as a standalone side with citrusy dressings.
• Stew with Spiralized Jicama: For a more adventurous culinary experience, spiralized jicama can add a unique texture and absorb flavors beautifully in stews and stir-fries.
• Plain Raw Jicama: Don’t forget, simply cutting raw jicama into sticks or slices and enjoying it plain or with a squeeze of lime and chili powder is a classic, healthy snack!

👨🏾‍🍳‍ More Low-Carb Air Fryer Fry Alternatives

If you’re on the hunt for more delicious and healthy low-carb fry options to make in your air fryer, we’ve got you covered! The air fryer is a fantastic tool for creating crispy veggie fries without the excess oil. Don’t miss these other innovative ideas:

• Keto Fried Green Beans: These offer a unique twist on fries, delivering a crispy and savory experience that’s perfect for low-carb lifestyles.
• Air Fryer Eggplant Fries: A delightful way to enjoy eggplant, transformed into tender yet crispy “fries” with minimal effort.

You might also enjoy exploring other healthy air fryer recipes, such as these air fryer whole carrots, which caramelize beautifully, or our comprehensive guide on how to perfectly cook air fryer frozen vegetables, ensuring no more mushy results! And for a complete collection of innovative meals and snacks, be sure to check out our entire library of Air Fryer Recipes. You’ll be amazed at the variety of delicious dishes you can create with this versatile kitchen appliance!