After matcha, a drink containing green tea and having the same color, time for the Ube latte! This bright purple drink is becoming more and more popular in coffee shops in France. But what does it contain and what are its health benefits?
Ube, a tuber straight from the Philippines
Also called purple yam, ube is a tuber widely used in Filipino gastronomy, particularly in desserts. Indeed, its purple hue and its mild flavor make it an ingredient of choice for sweet preparations. Now, ube is also included in drinks, to be consumed hot or cold.
The health benefits of Ube latte
But what are the health benefits of this drink? To find out, True Medical interviewed dietician-nutritionist Amélie Curpain. “Ube is actually a tuber originating from the Philippines. In powder or puree, added to milk, sugar and coffee, you obtain an Ube latte”
she confirms first of all.
Ube latte is a drink rich in anthocyanins. “This antioxidant offers a protective effect on cardiovascular health” adds the expert.
“Ube is also rich in vitamin C and fiber, which has an effect on the blood sugar peak: this breaks the curve of increasing blood sugar levels.“. The dietician also highlights the presence of iron and potassium in this tuber, in significant quantities.
Prepare an Ube latte at home
The main difference between matcha and Ube latte is the presence of caffeine. “Matcha naturally contains caffeine. This is not the case with the Ube. You can prepare the drink with milk, without coffee and limiting the addition of sugar” indicates our expert. If you want to make this trendy drink at home, here is a simple recipe:
- 1 tablespoon of ube powder, preferably purchased in an organic store;
- 1 shot of espresso (optional);
- 250 ml of milk (vegetable or cow’s milk, in this case choose semi-skimmed or skimmed milk);
- 1 to 2 teaspoons of sugar or agave syrup (to taste)
Amélie Curpain recommends limiting sugary syrups and favoring wholemeal or coconut sugar. Then the stages of preparation are as follows:
- In a saucepan, mix the ube powder with the milk and heat over low heat, stirring until completely dissolved;
- Add the sugar or agave syrup and mix well;
- Pour the mixture into a cup. If desired, add a shot of espresso for a caffeinated version.
Enjoy hot, or let cool and serve with ice cubes for a frozen version.
According to the dietician, the drink can be consumed in the evening, without caffeine. “It has good digestibility and has significant satiating power. she adds. It is therefore a rather attractive alternative, compared to traditional drinks.