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This eye-catching Ube Horchata turns an old-school Mexican rice beverage into a gorgeous purple drink that catches your eye and makes your taste buds happy. When you mix the natural sweetness of ube with cinnamon-infused rice milk, you get a one-of-a-kind refreshment that's perfect for hot days or fancy gatherings.
I whipped up this mixed-culture drink for my kid's birthday bash, and everybody went crazy for it. The rich purple shade had people grabbing their phones to snap pictures before they even tried it.
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
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The ube powder really makes this drink stand out. I stumbled across it at a Filipino shop some time back and can't stop playing around with it. It tastes kind of like taro but sweeter and earthier, with that amazing purple twist that always brings joy to everyone who tries it.
Storage Tips
Making It Your Own
Cultural Fusion
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's ube, and how does it taste?
Ube is a purple yam from the Philippines, often found in desserts. It has a gently sweet, earthy flavor with hints of vanilla and nuttiness. Its striking purple color adds visual appeal to foods and drinks.
- → Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the ube mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just wait to add the ice until you're ready to serve to keep the texture right. Stir again before drinking, as separation might happen.
- → Where do I find ube powder and extract?
Look for ube powder and extract in Asian grocery stores, especially those focusing on Filipino goods. They're also widely available online through specialty shops or sellers on big e-commerce sites. Try the baking aisle or international food section.
- → Can I swap rice milk for another kind?
Sure, you can use almond, oat, or regular dairy milk instead. Each option gives a slightly different taste, but it'll still work. Rice milk is closest to traditional horchata flavor, though.
- → What other toppings go with ube drinks?
A little cinnamon on top is always a winner. You could also add a light sprinkle of ube powder, pop in a cinnamon stick as a stirrer, drizzle on a bit of coconut cream, or top with vanilla ice cream for a rich twist!
- → Do you serve it hot or cold?
Usually, it's served cold over ice, giving it a refreshing, lightly slushy texture. But you can play around with a warm version—just heat the drink gently before serving for a cozy alternative.