Halayang Ube is a popular Filipino dessert that everyone loves for its rich and creamy texture. This sweet treat, made from purple yam, is not only a delicious snack but also a versatile ingredient you can use in many dishes. If you’ve ever been intimidated by the process of making this dessert, don’t worry! This easy-to-follow guide will help you make Halayang Ube at home, with simple steps and clear instructions.

Ingredients

To make Halayang Ube, you will need:

– 1 kilo ube (purple yam) – This should be peeled and grated.
– 1 1/2 cups gata (coconut milk) – This gives the dessert a rich, creamy texture.
– 2 cups evaporated milk – Adds creaminess and depth.
– 3 cans condensed milk – Sweetens and thickens the mixture.
– 1/2 cup butter – For extra richness and smoothness.
– 1-2 teaspoons ube flavoring – For enhancing the ube flavor (adjust based on your preference).

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ube

• Peel and Cut: Start by peeling the ube. Use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin. Once peeled, cut the ube into chunks. This will help it cook more evenly and quickly.
• Boil the Ube: Place the ube chunks in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the ube for about 20-30 minutes, or until it is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
• Drain and Mash: Once the ube is cooked, drain the water and let the ube cool slightly. When it is cool enough to handle, mash the ube with a fork or potato masher. If you prefer, you can also use a food processor to get a smoother consistency. Set the mashed ube aside.

 2. Cook the Halayang Ube

1. Melt the Butter: In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add Mashed Ube: Add the mashed ube to the pan with the melted butter. Stir well to combine the butter with the ube.
3. Add Dairy Ingredients: Pour in the coconut milk, evaporated milk, and condensed milk. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Add Ube Flavoring: Stir in the ube flavoring. Start with 1 teaspoon and mix it well. Taste the mixture and if you want a stronger ube flavor, you can add up to 2 teaspoons.
5. Cook and Stir: Lower the heat to low. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly to prevent it from sticking to the pan or burning. This will take about 30-45 minutes. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes sticky and smooth

3. Cool and Set

1. Pour into a Pan: Once the mixture has thickened and is smooth, pour it into a greased pan or mold. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly and smooth the top.

2. Let it Cool: Allow the Halayang Ube to cool down to room temperature. This helps it set properly. After it has cooled, place the pan in the refrigerator. Let it chill for about 2 hours or until it is fully set.

 

Tips for Perfect Halayang Ube

– Stirring is Key: Make sure to stir the mixture continuously while cooking. This prevents the mixture from burning and helps achieve the right consistency.
– Adjust Flavoring: Depending on the strength of your ube flavoring and personal taste, you may need to adjust the amount you use.
– Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ube and high-quality dairy products will give your Halayang Ube the best flavor and texture.

What to Do with Halayang Ube

Halayang Ube is not just a dessert on its own. You can use it in many delicious ways:

– Halo Halo Topping: Add a scoop of Halayang Ube on top of your Halo Halo for a creamy and sweet layer.
– Bread Filling: Spread it on bread or use it as a filling for pastries. It makes for a delightful and unique treat.
– Tarts and Pies: Use Halayang Ube as a filling for tarts or pies. It adds a rich flavor that is sure to impress.
– Palitaw Filling: Incorporate it into Palitaw, a Filipino rice cake dessert, for an extra layer of sweetness.

 

Making Halayang Ube at home is a rewarding experience. With this simple guide, you can enjoy the process of creating this creamy, delicious dessert. While it does take some time and effort, the result is a tasty treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or using it in other recipes, Halayang Ube is sure to be a hit!

Enjoy making your Halayang Ube and savor the rich, creamy taste of this delightful Filipino classic – From YumA with love: Bringing joy to your taste buds!