Purple Sweet Potato Recipes: Delicious and Easy Ways to Cook

Purple sweet potato - just the name makes me smile! It's such a vibrant, playful ingredient, and it always brings a splash of colour to any dish. For years, I've been obsessed with its unique flavour and versatility, experimenting with countless recipes. From simple roasts to elaborate desserts, purple sweet potato has never failed to impress me and my taste buds. Today, I'm thrilled to share some of my favourite ways to cook this delightful root vegetable, so buckle up, because we're about to embark on a culinary adventure!

(Part 1) The Purple Sweet Potato: A culinary gem

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the recipes, let's talk about why this humble spud deserves all the attention. Purple sweet potato, also known as ube, is a true culinary treasure. It's bursting with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy addition to your diet. But beyond its nutritional value, it's the taste and colour that really steal the show.

A Taste of Paradise

The flavour of purple sweet potato is a unique symphony of sweetness and earthiness. It's naturally sweet, with subtle earthy notes and a hint of vanilla. And don't even get me started on the texture! It's smooth and creamy, melting in your mouth like a dream. It's like a gentle hug for your taste buds, comforting and delicious.

A Rainbow on Your Plate

And then there's the colour! That gorgeous, vibrant purple, like a sunset on a summer evening, is a natural mood booster. It instantly brightens up any plate, making even the simplest dish feel special. Imagine serving a vibrant purple sweet potato soup on a cold winter day. The colour alone is enough to bring a smile to your face, right? It's like a little bit of sunshine in every bite.

A Versatile Ingredient

One of the best things about purple sweet potato is its versatility. It can be roasted, mashed, baked, steamed, fried, or even blended into smoothies. You can use it in sweet and savoury dishes, and it pairs beautifully with a wide range of flavours. It's truly a culinary chameleon, ready to adapt to any recipe you throw at it.

For instance, you can add a touch of sweet potato to your morning smoothie for a creamy boost. Or, you could roast it with herbs and spices for a delicious side dish. And don't even get me started on the desserts! It's a star ingredient in cakes, pies, and even ice cream.

(Part 2) The History of the Purple Sweet Potato

Did you know that purple sweet potato, or ube, has been around for centuries? It originated in the Philippines and has been a staple in Filipino cuisine for generations. The vibrant purple colour of the sweet potato was even incorporated into traditional Filipino clothing and art. It’s not just a delicious ingredient, it’s a cultural icon!

From the Philippines to the World

Over the years, the purple sweet potato has made its way around the world, gaining popularity in other parts of Asia, as well as in North America and Europe. Now, you can find it in grocery stores, farmers markets, and even online. Its popularity is a testament to its unique flavour, colour, and versatility.

(Part 3) Preparing Purple Sweet Potato: A Simple Guide

Now that we're all excited about this incredible ingredient, let's get practical and talk about preparing purple sweet potato. It's surprisingly easy. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be ready to create culinary magic.

1. Washing and Scrubbing

Start by giving your purple sweet potato a good wash under running water. You can use a vegetable brush to scrub away any dirt or debris. Just imagine that dirt getting washed away, revealing that gorgeous, vibrant purple beneath.

2. Peeling (Optional)

Peeling is optional. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel the skin with a vegetable peeler. However, I often leave the skin on, as it adds a lovely earthy flavour and beautiful colour to the final dish. Plus, it saves you a little time! The skin is totally edible, so don't feel pressured to peel it.

3. Chopping and Cubing

Once peeled (or not), you can chop the purple sweet potato into cubes, slices, or any shape you desire. The size will depend on your recipe. For example, if you're making mashed sweet potato, you'll want to cube it into smaller pieces. But if you're roasting it, you can cut it into larger chunks.

(Part 4) Purple Sweet Potato Recipes: A Feast for the Senses

Now, onto the fun part: the recipes! I’ve divided them into three categories: sweet treats, savoury delights, and beverages. Let’s get cooking!

(Part 5) Sweet Treats: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth

Who doesn't love a delicious dessert? Purple sweet potato shines in sweet treats, adding its signature colour and flavour to cakes, pies, and even ice cream. It's like a little bit of magic in every bite.

1. Ube Halaya: The Filipino Classic

This is my absolute favourite way to enjoy purple sweet potato. It’s a traditional Filipino dessert made with purple sweet potato, milk, sugar, and butter. It’s creamy, sweet, and intensely delicious. The perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of earthiness.

Ingredients:

1. 1 kg purple sweet potato, peeled and cubed
2. 1 can evaporated milk (395 ml)
3. 1 can condensed milk (395 ml)
4. 1/2 cup butter, softened
5. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
6. Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Steam the purple sweet potato until tender. This is the key to a smooth and creamy halaya.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the steamed purple sweet potato, evaporated milk, condensed milk, butter, sugar, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth. The halaya will start to pull away from the sides of the pan as it thickens.
4. Transfer the halaya to a serving dish and let it cool completely. Serve chilled or at room temperature. I like to add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top for extra texture and flavour.

2. Purple Sweet Potato Cake: A Delightful Surprise

This cake is a showstopper. The vibrant purple colour and moist, tender crumb are sure to impress your guests. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion. Imagine serving this cake at a birthday party or a potluck. It's guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients:

1. 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 teaspoon baking soda
3. 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
4. 1/4 teaspoon salt
5. 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
6. 1/2 cup vegetable oil
7. 2 large eggs
8. 1 cup mashed cooked purple sweet potato
9. 1/2 cup milk
10. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the sugar and oil until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the mashed purple sweet potato, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix, or the cake will be tough.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Frost the cake with your favourite frosting and enjoy! I like to use a cream cheese frosting, but you can also use a chocolate or vanilla frosting.

3. Ube Cheese Pandesal: A Filipino Treat

These soft and chewy rolls are a popular Filipino breakfast treat. They're easy to make, and the combination of ube and cheese is irresistible. Imagine waking up to the aroma of these rolls baking in the oven. It's a real treat!

Ingredients:

1. 1 cup mashed cooked purple sweet potato
2. 1 cup warm milk
3. 1 tablespoon sugar
4. 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
5. 1 teaspoon salt
6. 3 cups all-purpose flour
7. 1/2 cup grated cheese
8. 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed purple sweet potato, warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
2. Add the salt, flour, and cheese to the yeast mixture. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. You can knead the dough by hand or use a stand mixer.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. A warm oven with the light on is a great place to let the dough rise.
4. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round ball.
5. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes, or until doubled in size. This second rise will give the rolls a light and airy texture.
6. Brush the rolls with the beaten egg and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. The rolls should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
7. Let the pandesal cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a cup of coffee or tea!

(Part 6) Savoury Delights: Embrace the Unexpected

Purple sweet potato isn’t just for desserts. It’s surprisingly delicious in savoury dishes too. From hearty soups to vibrant salads, it adds a unique flavour and vibrant colour to your meals. It's a great way to add a touch of sweetness and depth to your savoury dishes.

1. Purple sweet potato soup: A Creamy Delight

This soup is both comforting and visually stunning. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the purple sweet potato are balanced by the savoury notes of the broth. It's a soup that warms you from the inside out, both literally and figuratively.

Ingredients:

1. 1 tablespoon olive oil
2. 1 onion, chopped
3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
4. 1/2 teaspoon salt
5. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
6. 1 kg purple sweet potato, peeled and cubed
7. 4 cups vegetable broth
8. 1/2 cup coconut milk
9. Fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the salt, pepper, and purple sweet potato. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the sweet potato is tender. You can check for tenderness by piercing a piece of sweet potato with a fork.
4. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you're using a regular blender, be careful not to overfill it.
5. Stir in the coconut milk and heat through. The coconut milk adds a touch of richness and creaminess to the soup.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of freshness.

2. Purple sweet potato salad: A Colourful Twist

This vibrant salad is a great way to add a splash of colour and flavour to your lunch or dinner. The sweet potato adds a unique sweetness that complements the salty and tangy flavours of the other ingredients. It's a salad that's both beautiful and delicious.

Ingredients:

1. 1 kg purple sweet potato, peeled and cubed
2. 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
3. 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
4. 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
5. 1/4 cup olive oil
6. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
7. 1 tablespoon honey
8. 1/2 teaspoon salt
9. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the purple sweet potato with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread the sweet potato on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. The roasted sweet potato will have a lovely caramelized flavour.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the roasted purple sweet potato, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley to the dressing. Toss to coat. The dressing should be slightly tangy and sweet, with a hint of honey.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature. The salad is delicious on its own or served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.

3. Purple sweet potato fries: A Healthy Snack

These fries are a healthier alternative to traditional potato fries. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and they have a subtle sweetness that makes them irresistible. They're the perfect snack for movie night or a game day party.

Ingredients:

1. 1 kg purple sweet potato, peeled and cut into fries
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 1/2 teaspoon salt
4. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the purple sweet potato fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread the fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent the fries from sticking to the baking sheet.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy. The fries should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
4. Serve hot with your favourite dipping sauce. Some popular dipping sauces for sweet potato fries include ketchup, mustard, ranch dressing, and sriracha mayo.

(Part 7) Beverages: Sip on the Purple Goodness

Purple sweet potato isn't just for food, it can also be a refreshing and beautiful ingredient in your drinks. Its sweetness and colour add a touch of magic to smoothies, lattes, and even cocktails. It's a great way to add a touch of sweetness and a vibrant colour to your drinks.

1. Purple sweet potato smoothie: A Boost of Vitamins

This smoothie is a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. The sweet potato adds a touch of sweetness, while the other ingredients provide a boost of vitamins and antioxidants. It's a great way to get your daily dose of fruits, vegetables, and protein.

Ingredients:

1. 1 cup cooked purple sweet potato, mashed
2. 1 cup frozen banana slices
3. 1 cup almond milk
4. 1/2 cup spinach
5. 1 teaspoon honey
6. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth. A high-speed blender will ensure that the smoothie is creamy and smooth.
2. Pour into glasses and enjoy immediately. If you're making the smoothie ahead of time, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

2. Ube Latte: A Sweet and Creamy Treat

This latte is a delicious way to enjoy purple sweet potato. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness are perfect for a cozy afternoon treat. It's like a hug in a mug.

Ingredients:

1. 1/2 cup cooked purple sweet potato, mashed
2. 1/2 cup milk of your choice (almond, soy, oat, etc.)
3. 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
4. 1 tablespoon honey (or to taste)
5. Pinch of cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Combine the mashed sweet potato, milk, coffee, honey, and cinnamon in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy. You can adjust the amount of honey to your liking.
3. Pour into a mug and enjoy hot. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra flavour.

3. Purple Sweet Potato Cocktail: A Festive Surprise

This cocktail is a fun and unexpected way to enjoy purple sweet potato. The sweetness of the sweet potato balances the tartness of the lime juice, creating a refreshing and flavourful drink. It's a great way to add a touch of whimsy to your next party.

Ingredients:

1. 2 ounces vodka
2. 1 ounce purple sweet potato puree
3. 1 ounce lime juice
4. 1/2 ounce simple syrup
5. Ice
6. Lime wedge, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients except the lime wedge in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Make sure the ice is cold, or your cocktail won't be as refreshing.
2. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy. You can also add a splash of soda water to your cocktail for a bubbly treat.

(Part 8) cooking tips for Purple Sweet Potato Success

Now that you're armed with some delicious recipes, let's make sure your purple sweet potato cooking journey is a smooth one. Here are some handy tips to keep in mind:

1. Don't Overcook

Purple sweet potato can become mushy if overcooked. Aim for a tender but still firm texture. It's like cooking any other root vegetable, you want to cook it until it's tender but not mushy.

2. Use High-Quality Ingredients

The quality of your purple sweet potato will impact the flavour of your dish. Look for vibrant purple, firm potatoes with smooth skin. Just like with any ingredient, using high-quality purple sweet potato will make a difference in the taste of your final dish.

3. Don't Be Afraid to Experiment

Purple sweet potato pairs well with a variety of flavours. Feel free to experiment with different spices, herbs, and toppings to find your favourite combinations. There are no limits to what you can do with purple sweet potato. Get creative and have fun!

4. Enjoy the Process

Cooking with purple sweet potato is a fun and rewarding experience. Don't be afraid to get creative and have fun in the kitchen! Remember, cooking should be enjoyable. So relax, have fun, and enjoy the process.

(Part 9) FAQs

You might have some questions about this fascinating ingredient. Let’s clear them up!

1. What is the best way to store purple sweet potato?

Store purple sweet potato in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or a refrigerator. It will last for several weeks. You can also store it in a paper bag or a mesh bag to help absorb any moisture.

2. Can I substitute purple sweet potato for regular sweet potato in recipes?

You can substitute purple sweet potato for regular sweet potato in most recipes, but the colour and flavour will be different. If you’re looking for a vibrant colour and unique flavour, stick with purple sweet potato. The purple sweet potato will add a distinct sweetness and colour to your dishes.

3. Can I freeze purple sweet potato?

Yes, you can freeze purple sweet potato. Cook it first, then freeze it in freezer-safe bags. It will last for several months in the freezer. This is a great way to preserve purple sweet potato so you can use it in recipes later on.

4. What are some health benefits of purple sweet potato?

Purple sweet potato is a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It’s also low in calories and fat. It’s a nutritious and delicious addition to your diet. It's packed with nutrients and can help boost your immune system, improve your digestion, and even lower your blood pressure.

5. Where can I find purple sweet potato?

You can usually find purple sweet potato at Asian grocery stores, specialty markets, and some supermarkets. It's becoming increasingly popular, so you should be able to find it in most grocery stores. If you can't find it in your local store, you can always order it online.

(Part 10) Purple Sweet Potato: A Culinary Adventure

Purple sweet potato is an ingredient that's both familiar and exotic. It's familiar because it's a type of sweet potato, but it's exotic because of its vibrant colour and unique flavour. It's an ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

I encourage you to experiment with purple sweet potato and see what delicious creations you can come up with. It's an ingredient that's sure to impress your taste buds and brighten your day.

So go forth and explore the world of purple sweet potato! I know I will. There are so many more recipes and dishes that I want to try. It's an ingredient that's full of potential, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for purple sweet potato.