Story thread · 2 reports / 2 sources

Is ube the new matcha? How this purple Filipino ingredient is taking over UAE

thenationalnews.com · 8h · first reportShare

What goes into the making of a viral food trend? Is it the colour? Texture? Its versatility as an ingredient? Or is it a memorable flavour? And what makes ube , a starchy yam root vegetable native to the Philippines, fit these criteria? Its vibrant purple shade is an obvious reason, but ube's popularity is also owing to its velvety texture and sweet flavour. Much like how matcha has made its way into practically every coffee shop and cafe in the UAE over the last few years, ube is now the ingredient being incorporated into every sweet treat recipe and hot drink order. As a matcha lover, I set out to put its rival to the test, speaking to chefs behind the bakes. Here are some ways UAE eateries are incorporating ube into their menus – and my verdict. Nina's Bakes Christina Tamayo, the Filipina owner of Nina's Bakes, says the purple yam is connected to some of her best childhood memories. “We put it in all our desserts, such as halo-halo, ice cream, leche flan and cakes. Everyone in our v