Ube Panna Cotta is a luscious and creamy dessert that beautifully combines the classic Italian panna cotta with the distinct flavor of ube, a vibrant purple yam commonly used in Filipino sweets. This dessert boasts a silky-smooth texture and a rich, mildly nutty, and sweet taste that makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Its striking purple color makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 ube (purple yam), peeled
• 1 ½ cups whole milk, divided
• 1 cup coconut milk
• ½ cup white sugar
• 1 (.25 ounce) package unflavored gelatin

Directions

1. Cook the Ube: Steam the peeled ube for about 20 minutes or until tender. Let it cool before blending or mashing until smooth.
2. Prepare the Ube Mixture: Blend 1 cup of the puréed ube with ¾ cup whole milk, coconut milk, and sugar until smooth.
3. Bloom the Gelatin: In a saucepan, pour the remaining ¾ cup whole milk and sprinkle the gelatin over it. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
4. Dissolve the Gelatin: Heat the milk and gelatin mixture over medium-low heat, stirring until completely dissolved (about 3 to 5 minutes).
5. Combine Mixtures: Pour the blended ube mixture into the saucepan and heat over medium until steam rises (do not boil). Stir occasionally for 3 to 5 minutes.
6. Set the Panna Cotta: Pour the mixture into serving glasses or molds and refrigerate until set (about 3 hours).

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Sodium: 41mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Total Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 5g

The Unique Flavor of Ube

Ube, also known as purple yam, is a staple ingredient in many Filipino desserts. It has a subtly sweet, nutty, and slightly earthy flavor, making it perfect for sweet treats. Unlike other yams or sweet potatoes, ube has a deep purple color, which naturally gives desserts an eye-catching hue without artificial coloring.

Filipino cuisine heavily features ube in desserts such as ube halaya (a sweet yam jam), ube ice cream, and ube-flavored cakes. The increasing popularity of ube worldwide has led to its incorporation into various desserts, including Ube Panna Cotta. Its creamy and mildly sweet taste blends beautifully with the rich, smooth consistency of panna cotta.

Why Ube Panna Cotta is Special

What makes Ube Panna Cotta stand out from other desserts is its luxurious texture combined with the rich and distinct taste of ube. Unlike heavy cakes or pastries, panna cotta is light, making it an ideal dessert after a hearty meal.

The balance of flavors in Ube Panna Cotta is another reason for its appeal. The mild, nutty sweetness of ube pairs beautifully with the creamy, slightly sweet base of panna cotta. The coconut milk used in many recipes enhances the tropical taste, making it a refreshing yet indulgent dessert.

Moreover, its striking purple color makes it an elegant choice for special occasions, dinner parties, or simply as a unique treat for those who love experimenting with flavors.

The Cultural Significance of Ube

Ube has been a part of Filipino cuisine for generations, deeply ingrained in the country’s culture and traditions. It is a common ingredient in festive celebrations, particularly during Christmas and New Year’s gatherings, where desserts like ube halaya are prepared.

Beyond its culinary significance, ube is also an important part of Filipino agricultural heritage. It is grown in various parts of the Philippines, particularly in areas with rich volcanic soil. The vibrant purple tuber is harvested, cooked, and used in different ways, from traditional dishes to modern adaptations like Ube Panna Cotta.

With the rise of Filipino cuisine on the global stage, ube has gained recognition and appreciation worldwide. Many bakeries, ice cream shops, and restaurants have embraced this ingredient, introducing it to new audiences. Ube Panna Cotta is a wonderful way to showcase this beloved Filipino ingredient in a refined and elegant dessert.

Variations of Ube Panna Cotta

One of the best things about Ube Panna Cotta is its versatility. While the classic recipe includes a simple mixture of cream, milk, sugar, gelatin, and ube, there are many variations to explore:

• Coconut Ube Panna Cotta: This version replaces some or all of the cream with coconut milk, giving the dessert a stronger tropical flavor and making it suitable for those who prefer dairy-free options.
• Ube Panna Cotta with Mango Sauce: A refreshing take that pairs the earthy sweetness of ube with the bright and tangy flavor of mango puree, adding a contrast in taste and color.
• Ube Panna Cotta with Toasted Coconut Topping: Adding toasted coconut flakes on top gives the dessert a bit of crunch, making each bite more exciting.
• Ube Panna Cotta with Macapuno (Coconut Sport): Macapuno, a rare type of coconut with soft, jelly-like flesh, enhances the texture and sweetness of the panna cotta.
• Vegan Ube Panna Cotta: Using agar-agar instead of gelatin and replacing dairy with coconut milk and almond milk makes this dessert vegan-friendly.

Best Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Ube Panna Cotta is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to develop and the texture to firm up. To enhance the presentation and taste, consider these pairing and serving ideas:

• Drizzle with caramel or condensed milk: A touch of extra sweetness can elevate the flavor and add a more indulgent twist.
• Garnish with fresh fruits: Mango, strawberries, or blueberries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich panna cotta.
• Serve with a crunchy element: Adding a biscuit, cookie crumble, or toasted nuts creates a delightful contrast in textures.
• Pair with coffee or tea: The creamy texture of Ube Panna Cotta goes well with a hot cup of espresso, black coffee, or a soothing jasmine or green tea.

Health Benefits of Ube and Panna Cotta

While Ube Panna Cotta is a dessert, it contains some nutritious ingredients that offer health benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: The vibrant purple color of ube is due to anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that help fight inflammation and support overall health.
• Good Source of Fiber: Ube contains dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
• Nutrient-Rich: Ube provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin A.
• Healthy Fats from Coconut Milk: If using coconut milk in the recipe, it contributes to healthy fats that support heart and brain health.

However, since panna cotta contains sugar and cream, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Why You Should Try Making Ube Panna Cotta

If you love exploring new desserts, Ube Panna Cotta is a must-try. It is simple to prepare, requiring only a few ingredients, but delivers a sophisticated and delightful experience.

The combination of Italian and Filipino flavors makes it a unique addition to your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re a fan of classic panna cotta or looking for new ways to enjoy ube, this dish is sure to impress family and friends.

Additionally, Ube Panna Cotta is an excellent way to introduce ube to those who haven’t tried it before. Its smooth texture and balanced sweetness make it appealing to a wide range of palates.

Conclusion

Ube Panna Cotta is a perfect blend of elegance and comfort, bringing together the silky smoothness of panna cotta with the nostalgic flavors of ube. Its vibrant purple hue, creamy texture, and rich taste make it an outstanding dessert for any occasion.

As ube continues to gain popularity worldwide, this dessert showcases its unique qualities in a refined and approachable way. Whether served at a special gathering or enjoyed as a simple homemade treat, Ube Panna Cotta is a delightful way to experience the flavors of the Philippines with a touch of Italian sophistication.