Spicy Jicama Fries with Dips

Name: Spicy Jicama Fries with Dips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large jicama, peeled and cut into fries; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt to taste; 1 ripe avocado; 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste

I absolutely love how crispy and flavorful jicama fries can be, especially when spiced up just right. Because jicama is such a versatile root vegetable, it offers a refreshing crunch that’s perfect for snacking. After experimenting with various seasonings, I settled on a zesty blend that delivers a kick without overpowering the natural sweetness of the jicama. Paired with your favorite dips, these fries are an indulgent yet guilt-free treat that's bound to impress at parties or during a cozy night in.

Created by

Emmas

Last updated on 2026-02-08T16:58:28.595Z

When I first decided to make jicama fries, I was curious about how this crunchy root vegetable would hold up as a fry substitute. To my delight, they not only maintained a satisfying crispiness but also absorbed the flavors of the spices perfectly. I found that letting them rest after cutting helps release excess moisture, enhancing that crispy texture.

For dipping, I love preparing a creamy avocado dip that complements the spiciness of the fries. The creaminess of avocado clashes beautifully with the crunchy fries, making every bite a fantastic experience. Trust me, you won’t want to skip this pairing!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique and healthy alternative to traditional fries
Packed with a zesty kick that elevates your snacking experience
Easy to customize with different spices or dips

      

Jicama: A Versatile Root Vegetable

Jicama is not only a great choice for fries due to its crunchy texture, but it also has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements spicy seasonings beautifully. When preparing your jicama, be sure to peel it thoroughly—its brown outer skin can be tough and bitter. Cutting the jicama into evenly sized fries helps ensure they cook uniformly, allowing you to achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

In addition to frying, jicama can also be enjoyed raw in salads or as a refreshing snack. This versatility makes it a fantastic option for experimenting with various flavor profiles. For a twist, consider using other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots, but be aware that they have different cooking times and flavor notes.

Baking the Jicama Fries to Perfection

The key to achieving crispy jicama fries is all in the baking technique. High heat is essential, so keep your oven preheated at 425°F (220°C). Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can cause the fries to steam rather than roast, leaving them soggy. Aim for spacing each fry apart to allow hot air to circulate freely around them, enhancing their crispiness.

Another tip is to flip the fries halfway through the baking time. This ensures even cooking and browning on all sides. If you want extra crunch, try placing the fries directly on a wire rack set over the baking sheet to allow grease to drip away while maximizing heat exposure.

Customizing Your Dips

While the avocado dip beautifully pairs with the jicama fries, feel free to customize or add additional dips suited to your taste. A zesty salsa or a tangy yogurt-based dip could bring a different flavor experience. You might also experiment with additional herbs like cilantro or spices like cumin for a unique twist on the avocado dip.

Make sure to serve your dips immediately to appreciate their freshness. You can prepare the avocado dip ahead of time, but it's best to consume it within a few hours to prevent browning. To store leftovers, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the dip to avoid oxidation.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Spicy Jicama Fries

Jicama Fries

1 large jicama, peeled and cut into fries
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt to taste

For Dips

1 ripe avocado
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for Dips

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Jicama Fries

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the jicama fries with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt until fully coated. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded.

Bake the Fries

Bake the fries for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Make the Avocado Dip

While the fries are baking, mash the avocado in a bowl and stir in Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve

Once the fries are ready, serve them warm with the avocado dip and any additional dips you like.

Enjoy Your Crispy Snack!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley over the fries before serving. You can also experiment with different spices depending on your taste preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These jicama fries are best enjoyed immediately, but you can prep the jicama in advance. Just peel and slice it, then store it in an airtight container submerged in water in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When you're ready to bake, drain and dry the slices thoroughly to ensure crispiness while cooking.

If you have leftovers, you'll want to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Although they may not retain their original crispiness, you can reheat them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes to revive some crunch. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make them soggy.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This recipe is easily scalable for gatherings or weeknight meals. If you're serving a crowd, simply double or triple the quantities for the fries while keeping the baking temperature and time the same. Just ensure you have enough baking sheets so that the fries remain in a single layer; batch-cooking will yield the best results.

Conversely, if you want to make a smaller batch, halve the ingredients and bake in a smaller pan. Regardless of the size, always keep an eye on the fries towards the end of the cooking time to prevent burning, as smaller batches may cook more quickly.

Exploring Flavor Variations

The seasoning blend used for these jicama fries is just a starting point. You can play with various spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even parmesan cheese for an Italian twist. If you prefer mild flavors, adjust the quantities of cayenne and chili powder or try using a mild taco seasoning blend for a different flavor profile.

Additionally, consider fresh herbs as a finishing touch after baking. Sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro or green onions can not only enhance flavor but also add a pop of color to your dish, making it more appealing for gatherings or casual dinners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these fries in advance?

Yes, you can prep the jicama and toss it in oil and spices a few hours before baking. Just store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.

→ What can I substitute for jicama?

If you can’t find jicama, try sweet potatoes or celery root, but cooking times may vary.

→ Can I air fry the jicama fries instead?

Absolutely! Air frying them typically takes about 15-20 minutes at 380°F (193°C). Keep checking for the desired crispiness.

→ How can I make the dip spicier?

You can add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the avocado dip for an extra kick!