When you're contemplating an afternoon snack that really hits the spot, is jicama ever on your list? Sure we eat it on salads, but what about covered in seasonings and skewered like last night's kabobs? It's traditional street food in Mexico, and there's no reason you can't partake!

Jicaletas are a tasty treat, and yet they are something that hasn't really gained much popularity in the US. It's a traditional Latin America street food that is most common in Mexico, but can easily be made at home.

Usually, jicama is cut into thick slices (half inch or more) and then skewered. It's sprinkled with lime juice and rolled in flavorings. It can be something simple like chili or something extra tart (usually from the addition of citric acid) like orange, grape, strawberry — all of which have a little heat to them as well.

In your own kitchen, you can try cutting jicama into spears, sticks (if the full lollipop size is intimidating) or skewer them up (because what food isn't better in stick form?), squeeze lime on top and give them a sprinkle of chili con limon (found in most grocery stores). You can also dip them in cajeta (goat's milk caramel), dulce de leche (cow's milk caramel), or pureed fruit.... even Kool-Aid powder for a more carnival-ish type feel.

Have you ever had a jicaletas before? Is there a vendor near you that sells them? Let us know where in the comments below!

Related: The Perfect Summer Dessert: Melon with Lime-Chile Syrup

Image: Divertifiestas, Wikimedia member Thelmadatter licensed for use by Creative Commons, Amazon