Costa Goes Purple: What Is Ube and Can You Use It at Home?

If you have spotted a bright purple drink or dessert on the menu at Costa Coffee recently, you may have found yourself asking one simple question: what exactly is ube?

It sounds trendy, looks Instagram-friendly, and has quickly become one of the most talked-about ingredients in cafés and dessert bars. 

But ube is far from new. In fact, it has been a much-loved staple in Filipino cooking for generations.

Now, with major chains like Costa Coffee embracing it, ube is having a very colourful moment in the UK.

So, What Is Ube?

Ube (pronounced oo-beh) is a purple yam originally from the Philippines. It is often confused with purple sweet potato, but the flavour is quite different.

Ube has a naturally sweet, slightly nutty, vanilla-like taste with hints of pistachio and white chocolate. Its vivid purple colour makes it instantly recognisable and extremely popular in desserts and drinks.

It has long been used in traditional Filipino treats such as ube halaya (a sweet jam), cakes, pastries, ice cream, milkshakes, and breads like ensaymada.

Unlike some food crazes that are all style and no substance, ube genuinely tastes as good as it looks.

Why Is Costa Using It?

Coffee chains are always looking for the next seasonal flavour trend, and ube ticks every box.

It is visually striking, naturally sweet, and offers something different from the usual caramel, vanilla, and pumpkin spice rotation. It also appeals to younger customers who enjoy trying new flavours and sharing eye-catching drinks on social media.

Purple lattes and iced ube drinks are especially popular because they stand out instantly in a crowded coffee market.

For Costa, it is a smart move. For customers, it is a chance to try something a little different without needing a passport to Manila.

It also tastes delicious!

Can You Use Ube at Home?

Absolutely, and it is easier than many people think.

You can buy ube in several forms:

ube extract

ube jam (ube halaya)

frozen grated ube

ube powder

fresh purple yam (less common in the UK)

Ube extract is often the easiest starting point for home bakers, especially for cakes, cheesecakes, pancakes, frostings, and milkshakes.

Ube jam is perfect for spreading on toast, filling pastries, or stirring into porridge for something a bit different.

Even a simple ube latte can be made at home by mixing ube powder or jam with warm milk and a little sweetener.

Where Can You Buy It?

You are most likely to find ube products in Asian supermarkets, Filipino grocery stores, or online through retailers such as Amazon and specialist food shops.

Stores like Wing Yip and independent world food shops often stock ube products, particularly in larger UK cities.

Look carefully at labels, as some products are sold as purple yam flavouring rather than pure ube.

Should You Try It?

If you enjoy sweet, creamy flavours and like trying something beyond the usual coffee-shop choices, ube is definitely worth exploring.

It is fun, versatile, and surprisingly easy to use at home.

And let’s be honest, anything that makes your latte look like it belongs in a fairy tale probably deserves at least one try. 

Purple drinks may come and go, but ube looks like it is here to stay.

Readers of That's Food and Drink can also buy Ube products through our Amazon-powered shop, the link to Ube products is here:- https://amzn.to/4tsgF0B

Embracing Flavorful Fusion: Pinoy Party Times Arrives in Margate's Tins and Finns

Nestled in the heart of Margate, a vibrant coastal town known for its artistic flair and picturesque beaches, a culinary gem awaits: Tins and Finns Restaurant. But what sets this eatery apart from the myriad of dining options dotting the landscape?

 It’s the infusion of flavours from the Philippines, coupled with a vibrant atmosphere that promises not just a meal but an experience, Pinoy Party Times right in the heart of Margate.

A Fusion of Flavours

At Tins and Finns, diners are invited on a gastronomic journey that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines while embracing modern fusion techniques. Imagine traditional Filipino dishes infused with international flavors and presented with a contemporary twist. Every dish on the menu is crafted with care, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible.

What makes Filipino cuisine stand out is its diverse influences, a reflection of the country’s colourful history. From Spanish colonisation to Chinese trade, each cultural interaction left its mark on Filipino food, resulting in a unique and dynamic culinary landscape. Tins and Finns honors this heritage by offering a menu that pays homage to traditional flavors while embracing innovation.

Pinoy Party Times

But Tins and Finns is more than just a place to satisfy your hunger, it’s a destination for celebration. Drawing inspiration from the lively fiestas of the Philippines, the restaurant aims to create an atmosphere where every meal feels like a party. Picture vibrant decor, upbeat music, and a warm, welcoming ambiance that invites guests to kick back, relax, and indulge in good food and great company.

From birthday bashes to intimate gatherings, Tins and Finns offers the perfect setting for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply craving a taste of home, the restaurant’s friendly staff and lively atmosphere ensure that every visit is an unforgettable experience.

Bringing Filipino Flavour to Margate

So why Margate? With its diverse community and burgeoning food scene, Margate provides the perfect backdrop for Tins and Finns to showcase Filipino cuisine to a wider audience. By introducing locals and visitors alike to the flavours of the Philippines, the restaurant not only satisfies appetites but also sparks curiosity and fosters cultural exchange.

Moreover, Tins and Finns is committed to giving back to the community that has embraced it with open arms. Through partnerships with local organisations and initiatives, the restaurant strives to make a positive impact, both socially and economically.

Join the Fiesta

In a world where culinary boundaries are constantly being pushed and flavours are constantly evolving, Tins and Finns Restaurant stands out as a beacon of creativity and cultural celebration. With its innovative approach to Filipino fusion cuisine and its commitment to creating memorable dining experiences, it’s no wonder that Tins and Finns is set to quickly become a beloved fixture in the Margate food scene.

So why not join the fiesta? Whether you’re a seasoned foodie looking for your next culinary adventure or simply someone who appreciates good food and good times, Tins and Finns welcomes you with open arms. Come for the food, stay for the fun, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime. See you at the party!

And don't forget the Don Papa 7-Year Rum, Ume Plum Liquor, horseradish vodka, and homemade lemongrass, chilli, and ginger cordial!

Located in the heart of Margate, Pinoy Tins and Finns is poised to become a beloved destination for food lovers seeking bold flavors and a vibrant dining experience. So mark your calendars and prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey through the tantalizing world of Filipino fusion food.

Come one, come all, and let the party begin at Pinoy Party Times!

https://tinsandfins.com