How Many Calories in Jicama? Nutrition Facts & Macros
100 grams of jicama (raw) has 38 calories
Protein 0.7g · Carbs 8.8g · Fat 0.1g
Jicama has just 38 calories per 100g — a crunchy, refreshing root vegetable also called Mexican turnip or yam bean. Very high in fiber (4.9g) with only 3.9g net carbs. Good vitamin C (20mg, 22% DV). Nearly zero fat (0.1g) and very low sodium (4mg). Eaten raw for its crisp, juicy, slightly sweet flavor — like a cross between an apple and a potato. Popular in Mexican cuisine, salads, and as a low-carb snack.
159 kJ · per 100g · Water: 90.07 g
Calorie Calculator: Jicama
100 g Jicama contains 38 kcal
Calories by Portion Size
| Portion | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 cup, sliced (120g) | 46 kcal | 0.9g | 10.6g | 0.1g |
| 1 medium jicama (500g) | 190 kcal | 3.6g | 44.1g | 0.4g |
| 100 grams | 38 kcal | 0.7g | 8.8g | 0.1g |
Jicama — Nutrition Facts
| Jicama | per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 38 kcal |
| Protein | 0.72 g |
| Fat | 0.09 g |
| Carbs | 8.82 g |
| Fiber | 4.9 g |
| Sugar | 1.8 g |
| Sodium | 4 mg |
| Potassium | 150 mg |
| Magnesium | 12 mg |
| Phosphorus | 18 mg |
| Vitamin C | 20.2 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.042 mg |
| Folate | 12 mcg |
| Water | 90.07 g |
Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC ID: 170073) · Data verified April 2026
Variations
With lime & chili (Mexican style)
The classic Mexican street snack — jicama sticks sprinkled with fresh lime juice, chili powder (Tajín), and a pinch of salt. Refreshing, crunchy, and virtually calorie-free — the lime and spices add almost no calories. Popular at markets and street stalls throughout Mexico. Also works with mango and cucumber for a mixed fruit cup (fruta con chile).
Jicama fries (baked)
A popular low-carb substitute for potato fries. Cut jicama into fry shapes, toss with olive oil and seasonings, bake at 200°C for 25-30 minutes. They won't get as crispy as potato fries but develop a nice caramelized exterior. About 60-80 kcal per serving (mostly from oil). Some recipes suggest boiling briefly first for softer centers. Works with any seasoning — garlic, paprika, cajun.
In salad or slaw
Jicama adds refreshing crunch to salads and slaws. Julienne or dice and toss with citrus dressing. Classic combinations: jicama-mango-cilantro, jicama-carrot slaw, or jicama-apple-walnut. The crunch holds up well in dressings — unlike cucumber, it doesn't get soggy. Great for meal prep — pre-cut jicama stays crisp for 3-4 days refrigerated in water.
Dietary Perspectives
For Weight Loss
Jicama is excellent for weight loss — only 38 calories per 100g with 4.9g fiber for satiety. High water content (90%) fills you up. Use as a substitute for higher-calorie snacks: jicama sticks replace chips, jicama fries replace potato fries. The prebiotic fiber (inulin) supports gut health and may help with appetite control. Nearly zero fat and very low sodium.
For Athletic Performance
Jicama is low calorie (38 kcal) — not an energy-dense food for athletes. However, the high water content (90%) and potassium (150mg) make it a hydrating snack. The 8.8g carbs provide some fuel. Good vitamin C (20mg) supports recovery. Best as a refreshing pre- or post-workout snack. Pair with nut butter for more calories and protein.
For Keto
Jicama is a solid keto option — only 3.9g net carbs per 100g (8.8g total minus 4.9g fiber). Much lower than other root vegetables: potato has 15g net, sweet potato 17g net, carrot 7g net. Use as a substitute for potatoes (fries, hash browns), apples (in salads), or water chestnuts (in stir-fries). The prebiotic inulin fiber doesn't spike blood sugar. Eat raw as sticks with dip or bake into chips.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in jicama?
100g of raw jicama has 38 calories — 8.8g carbs (4.9g fiber = 3.9g net), 0.1g fat, 0.7g protein. One cup of sliced jicama (~120g) has about 46 calories. A whole medium jicama (~500g) has about 190 calories.
Is jicama healthy?
Very healthy — high fiber (4.9g per 100g, 20% DV), good vitamin C (20mg, 22% DV), and almost no fat or sodium. The fiber is mostly inulin, a prebiotic that feeds beneficial gut bacteria. High water content (90%) keeps you hydrated. Low glycemic index despite being a root vegetable.
What does jicama taste like?
Crisp, juicy, and mildly sweet — like a cross between an apple and a water chestnut. Crunchy texture similar to a raw potato but sweeter and juicier. Neutral enough to pair with both sweet and savory dishes. The flavor is best raw; cooking softens the texture and mutes the sweetness.
Is jicama good for keto?
Good option — only 3.9g net carbs per 100g (8.8g total minus 4.9g fiber). Use as a substitute for potatoes, apples, or water chestnuts in keto recipes. Great as chips (slice thin, bake), in coleslaw, or as crudités with dip. Lower net carbs than most root vegetables.
How do you eat jicama?
Most commonly eaten raw — peel the brown skin, cut into sticks or slices. In Mexico: with lime juice, chili powder, and salt (classic street snack). In salads, slaws, spring rolls, or as crudités. Can be cooked: stir-fried (keeps crunch), baked into chips, or added to soups. Only the white flesh is edible — skin, leaves, and seeds are toxic.
Can you cook jicama?
Yes — jicama holds its crunch when stir-fried or roasted, unlike most root vegetables. Bake thin slices at 200°C for crispy chips. Stir-fry with Asian seasonings. Add to soups for the last 5 minutes. Cooking reduces vitamin C but the fiber and crunch remain. Most people prefer it raw for maximum crunch and sweetness.