Do you crave something unique, something that stands out from the usual dessert fare? Do you find the allure of brownies irresistible but want a refreshingly unique twist on this classic dessert? If your answer is a resounding yes, then buckle up, for we are about to embark on a tantalising journey of taste and discovery blending Western treats and Eastern flavours. Welcome to the world of ube brownies, a Filipino delight that will take your sweet tooth on a wild ride.
This exotic dessert has been causing quite a stir in the culinary world. It’s a joyful fusion of Western brownies with the distinctively Filipino ingredient — ube, a purple yam native to the Philippines that has elevated the humble brownie to a new level of deliciousness. So, are you ready to explore this exciting culinary cross-over? Let’s go!
What is Ube?
Ube is a vibrant violet tuber indigenous to the Philippines. You may be wondering, “What does ube taste like?” It’s similar to taro or sweet potato but with a distinctively richer, more complex taste — think vanilla crossed with pistachio and a touch of coconut. Herein lies the charm of ube; the flavor is at once familiar and exotic, making it a fantastic ingredient for bakers seeking to push the boundaries of traditional dessert recipes.
Why ube in brownies?
So, you might be asking, “Why on earth would anyone want to mix ube with brownies?” The answer is simple: why not? After all, food is all about experimentation, right? Integrating ube into brownies gives the beloved dessert a surprising twist, a splendid splash of color and a new layer of taste. This addition transforms it from a mere sweet snack into an international culinary adventure.
Combining the earthy texture of brownies with the sweet, nutty flavor of ube results in a dessert that’s both comforting and adventurous. The ube lends a moist and almost fruity note to the brownies, making them a delightful surprise for the palate.
How to Make Ube Brownies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3⁄4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup ube jam (also known as ube halaya)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ube extract
- Optional: white chocolate chips or chopped macadamia nuts for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ube jam, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and ube extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Optional: sprinkle white chocolate chips or chopped macadamia nuts over the top for a bit of added crunch and flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before slicing into squares.
FAQs
Where can I find ube?
Ube can be found at Asian markets or online. If it’s not available fresh, you can also purchase it online as ube powder, ube extract or frozen grated ube.
Can I make ube brownies without an oven?
Yes, you can! There are numerous no-bake ube brownie recipes available online that just require a microwave or stovetop.
Final Thoughts
In the world of desserts, the ube brownie stands as a testament to the beauty of culinary fusion. It is a unique take on the traditional brownie but with an added Filipino twist that opens up a whole new avenue of indulgence. With its beautiful purple hue and the surprisingly complex flavors it brings, the ube brownie is a treat that will have you coming back for more. And as we continue to explore and experiment with flavors from around the world, who knows what other delightful dessert fusions await us on the horizon?
