Ube extract, derived from the vibrant purple yam native to Southeast Asia, has become a popular ingredient in kitchens worldwide. Its striking color and unique flavor profile make it a versatile addition to both sweet and savory dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 10 delectable recipes that showcase the versatility of ube extract, ranging from indulgent desserts to refreshing drinks.
The best Ube Extract → Flavor Frenzy
What is Ube Extract?
Ube extract is a concentrated liquid flavoring made from purple yams. It’s known for its deep purple hue and subtly sweet, nutty flavor with hints of vanilla. This extract is commonly used to impart both color and flavor to various dishes, especially in Filipino cuisine.
Dessert Recipes Featuring Ube Extract
1. Ube Cheesecake
This stunning purple cheesecake is a showstopper at any gathering. The creamy texture of cheesecake pairs beautifully with the subtle nuttiness of ube extract.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp ube extract
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into a springform pan.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream, ube extract, and flour.
- Pour mixture over crust and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 1 hour. Cool completely before serving.
2. Ube Ice Cream
Cool off with this vibrant and creamy ube ice cream. It’s a perfect summer treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 2 tbsp ube extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Heat cream, milk, and sugar in a saucepan until sugar dissolves.
- Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl. Slowly add hot cream mixture to yolks, whisking constantly.
- Return mixture to saucepan and cook until thickened.
- Stir in ube extract and salt. Chill, then churn in an ice cream maker.
3. Ube Crinkle Cookies
These soft, chewy cookies with a crackled sugar coating are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate crinkle cookie.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp ube extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Instructions:
- Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk sugar, oil, eggs, and ube extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients. Chill dough for 2 hours.
- Roll dough into balls, coat in powdered sugar, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Beverage Recipes with Ube Extract
4. Ube Latte
Start your day with this colorful and flavorful latte that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 shot espresso or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
- 1 tbsp ube extract
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Steam or heat milk until hot and frothy.
- Mix espresso or coffee with ube extract and sugar if using.
- Pour milk over the coffee mixture.
- Top with whipped cream if desired.
5. Ube Smoothie
This nutritious smoothie is a great way to incorporate ube into your breakfast routine.
Ingredients:
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tbsp ube extract
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Adjust sweetness to taste with additional honey if needed.
Savory Dishes with Ube Extract
6. Ube Mashed Potatoes
Add a pop of color to your dinner plate with these unique mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tbsp ube extract
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil potatoes until tender, then drain.
- Mash potatoes with milk, butter, and ube extract.
- Season with salt and pepper.
7. Ube Hummus
This vibrant twist on classic hummus is sure to be a conversation starter at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp ube extract
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
Baked Goods with Ube Extract
8. Ube Bread Rolls
These soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for breakfast or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp ube extract
Instructions:
- Mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
- Add milk, butter, egg, and ube extract. Knead until smooth.
- Let dough rise for 1 hour, then shape into rolls.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
9. Ube Cupcakes
These eye-catching cupcakes are perfect for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp ube extract
Instructions:
- Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time.
- Alternately add flour mixture and milk to butter mixture. Stir in ube extract.
- Bake in lined cupcake tins at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes.
Frozen Treats with Ube Extract
10. Ube Popsicles
These refreshing popsicles are a perfect summer treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp ube extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Heat coconut milk and sugar until sugar dissolves.
- Stir in ube extract and salt.
- Pour into popsicle molds and freeze until solid.
Conclusion
Ube extract is a versatile ingredient that can add a unique flavor and stunning color to a wide variety of dishes. From sweet treats to savory surprises, these 10 recipes demonstrate the incredible range of culinary possibilities that ube extract offers. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a curious beginner, experimenting with ube extract is sure to bring excitement and creativity to your kitchen.
FAQ
Q: Where can I buy ube extract? A: Ube extract is available in many Asian grocery stores and can also be purchased online through various retailers.
Q: Can I substitute ube extract with fresh ube? A: While fresh ube can be used in some recipes, ube extract is more concentrated and provides a more vibrant color. Substitution may require recipe adjustments.
Q: Is ube extract natural? A: Some ube extracts are natural, while others may contain artificial flavoring and coloring. Check the label for ingredient information.
Q: How long does ube extract last? A: Unopened ube extract can last up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it’s best to use within 6 months and store in the refrigerator.
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