Jicama for Babies
Complete guide on how to prepare and serve jicama to your baby, by age.
Safety Information
How to Serve Jicama to a 6–9 Months Old
How to Cut
Jicama is crisp and hard raw, making it a high choking risk for babies. For young babies starting solids, peel jicama thoroughly, then steam until tender—about 8–12 minutes. Once softened, mash or puree with a little water, breast milk, or formula until smooth. You can also blend with other root vegetables like sweet potato for more flavor. Always avoid serving raw sticks or pieces at this stage.
Serving Instructions
In this early solids stage, serve jicama as a smooth puree or mash. Offer 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml / 0.5–1 fl oz) as part of a balanced meal with iron-rich foods (like lentils or meat), healthy fats, and vitamin C source (like bell pepper). Always watch for any reaction, though jicama is a low allergen. Offer variety and avoid force-feeding; follow your baby's hunger cues.
How to Serve Jicama to a 9–18 Months Old
How to Cut
Jicama remains firm even when cooked, so continue to avoid offering raw sticks or chunks due to choking risk. You can cut steamed jicama into thin matchsticks (no thicker than 0.5 cm / 0.2 in) and monitor closely, or continue to mash/serve as a soft puree. Alternatively, grate cooked jicama and mix into soft foods like oatmeal, yogurt, or mashed vegetables for added crunch and fiber. Only offer as finger food when the child demonstrates reliable chewing and pincer grasp.
Serving Instructions
Increase serving size gradually to 2–3 tablespoons (30–45 ml / 1–1.5 fl oz). Jicama can be served as grated, mashed, or in thin, steamed matchsticks. Complement with protein, healthy fats, and colorful veggies. Continue to include a variety of textures and colors on the plate to encourage curiosity, and always offer water with meals. Monitor for chewing skills and adjust texture as needed.
How to Serve Jicama to a 18+ Months Old
How to Cut
At this age, jicama can be introduced raw with care, if your child is reliably chewing well. Peel and slice jicama into very thin slices or matchsticks (ideally under 0.5 cm / 0.2 in thick) to minimize choking hazard. Always supervise during meals. For added safety, continue steaming and serving in thin slices, mashes, or grated into salads and wraps. Ensure jicama is part of a balanced meal with proteins, healthy fats, and other veggies.
Serving Instructions
A typical portion for toddlers is 2–4 tablespoons (30–60 ml / 1–2 fl oz), offered alongside protein, healthy fats, and veggies for a complete meal. Jicama can now be served raw in very thin sticks or slices, or continue steamed, grated, or mashed. Include a variety of textures—jicama adds satisfying crunch and fiber. Serve with dips or as part of a salad. Always supervise and encourage safe eating habits.
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