Jicama substitutes
Jicama substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Water chestnuts
Same amount as the jicama
Crisp vegetable with similar texture and mild flavor.
The best substitutes for jicama are water chestnuts, daikon radish, turnips, or apples depending on the dish.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- stir-fries
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of jicama | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Water chestnutsstir-fries | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Daikon radishsalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Turnipsroasting | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Applessalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Kohlrabisalads | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 6 | Cucumbersalads | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Water chestnuts
similar taste and texture
Crisp vegetable with similar texture and mild flavor.
- Best for
- stir-fries, salads, soups, casseroles
Similar crisp texture and mild flavor.
Daikon radish
similar taste and texture
Large white radish with similar crisp texture and mild flavor.
- Best for
- salads, raw preparations, pickling, garnishes
Similar crisp texture and mild flavor.
Turnips
similar taste and texture
Root vegetable with similar texture and mild flavor.
- Best for
- roasting, soups, stews, pickling
Similar texture and mild flavor.
Apples
similar taste and texture
Fruit with similar crisp texture and sweet flavor.
- Best for
- salads, raw preparations, snacks, desserts
Similar crisp texture and sweet flavor.
Kohlrabi
similar taste and texture
Bulbous vegetable with similar crisp texture and mild flavor.
- Best for
- salads, raw preparations, roasting, soups
Similar crisp texture and mild flavor.
Cucumber
different taste, similar texture
Crisp vegetable with similar texture and mild flavor.
- Best for
- salads, raw preparations, pickling, garnishes
Similar crisp texture but higher water content.
Questions
4 questionsWhat does jicama taste like?
Jicama has a sweet, nutty flavor with a crisp, apple-like texture. It's often described as tasting like a cross between an apple and a potato.
Can I eat jicama raw?
Yes, jicama is commonly eaten raw and is great in salads, slaws, and as a snack. It has a crisp, refreshing texture when raw.
Is jicama the same as water chestnuts?
No, they're different vegetables. Jicama is a root vegetable, while water chestnuts are aquatic tubers. However, they have similar crisp textures and mild flavors.
How should I store jicama?
Store jicama in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator. It should last for 2-3 weeks when stored properly. Once cut, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate.
Tips for substituting jicama
6 tips- Jicama has a sweet, nutty flavor and crisp texture
- Great for eating raw in salads and snacks
- Can be roasted or stir-fried for different textures
- Common in Mexican and Asian cuisine
- Pairs well with citrus, chili, and lime
- Store in cool, dry place or refrigerator