The Purple Yam Pursuit: A Guide to Ube in LA
So, you're craving the sweet, nutty goodness of purple yam, aka ube? Well, you've come to the right place, my friend. Let's embark on a journey through the purple abyss of Los Angeles to find this elusive tuber.
 |
| Where To Buy Purple Yam In Los Angeles |
Ube, You Beauty!
Purple yam, or ube, is a Filipino treasure that has taken the world by storm. Its vibrant color and unique flavor have made it a darling of the dessert scene. From ice cream to cakes, this purple wonder has conquered taste buds far and wide. But where can you find this magical ingredient in the City of Angels?
Your Local Asian Market is Your Ube Oasis
Let's face it, your best bet for finding fresh ube is at an Asian market. These are the hidden gems of the culinary world, overflowing with exotic ingredients and authentic flavors. Places like Seafood City, 99 Ranch Market, and Ranch 99 are your go-to spots.
Tip: Reading carefully reduces re-reading.
- Tip: Don't be afraid to ask the staff for help. They’re usually happy to point you in the right direction.
Beyond the Market: Ube Delights
If you're not keen on the idea of peeling and boiling your own ube, fear not! Los Angeles is home to a thriving Filipino food scene, and many restaurants and bakeries offer ube-flavored treats.
- Ice cream: A classic! Look for ube halaya ice cream, a rich and creamy dessert.
- Cakes: Ube chiffon cake is a light and fluffy option, while ube cheesecake is a decadent indulgence.
- Pancakes: Some breakfast spots offer ube pancakes, a sweet and savory combination.
Ube or Not Ube? That is the Question
Be warned: not all purple-colored things are ube. Some desserts might be artificially colored, so be sure to read the ingredients if you're looking for the authentic ube experience.
Tip: Let the key ideas stand out.
Ube: It's Not Just for Desserts
While ube is often associated with sweet treats, it can also be used in savory dishes. Some adventurous cooks incorporate ube into savory sauces and even main courses. If you're feeling experimental, go for it!
How to... Ube Questions
How to choose a good ube: Look for yams that are firm, heavy for their size, and have a deep purple color. Avoid those with blemishes or soft spots.
Tip: Make mental notes as you go.
 |
How to store ube: Unpeeled ube can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a week. Once peeled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
How to cook ube: The most common method is to steam or boil the ube until tender. You can then mash it and add sugar and milk to create ube halaya.
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
How to substitute ube: If you can't find ube, you can try purple sweet potato as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.
How to make ube last longer: Freezing ube halaya is a great way to preserve it. Simply portion it out into freezer-safe containers and enjoy it later.
So, there you have it! With a little effort, you can indulge in the delicious world of ube. Happy ube hunting!
 |
