Ubi Halaya Recipe: A Sweet Treat from the Philippines
Ubi Halaya, also known as sweet potato halaya, is a beloved Filipino dessert. Its rich, sweet flavor and smooth texture make it a perfect treat for any occasion. This recipe guides you through creating this delicious dessert, perfect for sharing with family and friends or impressing guests. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 kg sweet potatoes (purple or orange), peeled and cubed: The star of the show! Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes.
- 1 cup sugar: Adjust this to your preference. You can use brown sugar for a deeper, richer flavor.
- 1/2 cup coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a subtle coconut flavor.
- 1/4 cup butter: Enhances richness and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Adds a touch of elegance.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Ubi Halaya:
1. Boiling the Sweet Potatoes:
- Boil the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until tender. This usually takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of the cubes. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
- Drain the sweet potatoes thoroughly. This is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
2. Mashing and Mixing:
- Transfer the cooked sweet potatoes to a large bowl. Using a potato masher or a fork, mash them until mostly smooth. Some small chunks are okay – it adds texture!
- Add the sugar, coconut milk, butter, and salt. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Cooking the Halaya:
- Transfer the mixture to a heavy-bottomed pan (a non-stick pan is ideal). Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly. This prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
- Continue stirring for about 30-45 minutes, or until the halaya thickens to your desired consistency. It should be thick enough to hold its shape but still slightly moist.
- Stir in the vanilla extract (if using) during the last few minutes of cooking.
4. Cooling and Serving:
- Remove the pan from the heat and allow the Ubi Halaya to cool completely. This allows it to thicken further.
- Once cooled, you can serve it as is, or mold it into desired shapes. It's delicious served chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Ubi Halaya:
- Sweet Potato Selection: Using a combination of purple and orange sweet potatoes provides a visually appealing and flavorful halaya.
- Sugar Adjustment: Taste the halaya as it cooks and adjust the sugar according to your preference.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked halaya can become too dry. Keep a close eye on it and stir frequently.
- Storage: Store leftover Ubi Halaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for several days.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy Ubi Halaya on its own as a delightful dessert.
- Serve it with ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
- Use it as a filling for pastries or pies.
- Add it to your favorite bread recipes for a sweet twist.
This Ubi Halaya recipe is a simple yet rewarding experience. Enjoy the process of creating this traditional Filipino dessert and share the delicious results with your loved ones! Happy cooking!
