Tag: Pachyrhizus erosus

A common misconception is that all yams are starchy root vegetables, but the edible jicama, often called a Mexican yam, is actually a member of the bean family, not a true yam. This culinary favorite is one potential answer to the question, "What is the name of a Mexican yam?", though it's important to know the crucial botanical distinctions.

While most people recognize it as a root vegetable, jicama is botanically classified as a member of the legume family, Fabaceae. This may come as a surprise to many who are more familiar with its crunchy texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor than its botanical origins.