Kalamay ube, a traditional Filipino dessert, has been a staple in many celebrations and gatherings. This sweet, purple treat is made from glutinous rice flour, ube halaya (purple yam jam), and coconut milk, resulting in a rich, creamy, and indulgent delight. In this article, we will delve into the world of kalamay ube and provide a comprehensive guide on how to cook this beloved dessert.
Understanding the Ingredients and Equipment
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the ingredients and equipment needed to make kalamay ube. Here are the key components:
- Glutinous rice flour (also known as sweet rice flour)
- Ube halaya (purple yam jam)
- Coconut milk
- Sugar
- Water
- Pandan leaves (optional)
- Banana leaves (optional)
- A large pot with a heavy bottom (preferably a clay pot or a stainless steel pot with a non-stick coating)
- A wooden spoon or spatula
- A strainer or cheesecloth
The Importance of Using the Right Type of Rice Flour
Glutinous rice flour, also known as sweet rice flour, is a crucial ingredient in making kalamay ube. This type of flour is made from short-grain glutinous rice and has a higher starch content compared to regular rice flour. The high starch content gives kalamay ube its characteristic chewy and sticky texture.
When selecting glutinous rice flour, make sure to choose a reputable brand that is specifically labeled as “glutinous rice flour” or “sweet rice flour.” Avoid using regular rice flour, as it will not produce the same texture and consistency.
Ube Halaya: The Heart of Kalamay Ube
Ube halaya, also known as purple yam jam, is the star of the show when it comes to kalamay ube. This sweet and nutty jam is made from purple yams, sugar, and coconut milk. Ube halaya gives kalamay ube its distinctive purple color and flavor.
When selecting ube halaya, choose a reputable brand that uses high-quality ingredients and has a good balance of sweetness and nuttiness. You can also make your own ube halaya from scratch, but this will require additional time and effort.
Preparing the Ingredients
Now that we have discussed the ingredients and equipment needed, let’s move on to preparing the ingredients.
Measuring and Sifting the Rice Flour
To start, measure out 2 cups of glutinous rice flour and sift it into a large bowl. Sifting the flour will help remove any lumps and ensure that the flour is evenly mixed.
Preparing the Coconut Milk
Next, prepare the coconut milk by opening a can of full-fat coconut milk and scooping out the thick cream that has risen to the top. Reserve the remaining coconut water for later use.
Preparing the Ube Halaya
If using store-bought ube halaya, simply scoop out the desired amount and set it aside. If making your own ube halaya from scratch, cook and mash the purple yams, then mix with sugar and coconut milk.
Cooking the Kalamay Ube
Now that the ingredients are prepared, it’s time to cook the kalamay ube.
Combining the Rice Flour and Coconut Milk
In a large pot, combine the sifted rice flour and coconut cream. Mix well until the flour is evenly coated with the coconut cream.
Adding the Ube Halaya and Sugar
Next, add the ube halaya and sugar to the pot. Mix well until the ube halaya is fully incorporated and the sugar is dissolved.
Adding the Water and Pandan Leaves (Optional)
Gradually add in the reserved coconut water and mix well. If using pandan leaves, add them to the pot and mix well.
Cooking the Kalamay Ube
Place the pot over medium heat and cook the kalamay ube, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns into a sticky dough. This should take around 20-25 minutes.
Wrapping the Kalamay Ube in Banana Leaves (Optional)
If desired, wrap the cooked kalamay ube in banana leaves and steam for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will give the kalamay ube a more authentic flavor and texture.
Serving and Storing Kalamay Ube
Once the kalamay ube is cooked, it’s time to serve and store it.
Serving Kalamay Ube
Kalamay ube can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s often served as a snack or dessert, and it’s a popular treat during Filipino celebrations and gatherings.
Storing Kalamay Ube
To store kalamay ube, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Kalamay ube can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat when needed.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your kalamay ube game to the next level:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will directly affect the taste and texture of your kalamay ube. Choose reputable brands and fresh ingredients whenever possible.
- Experiment with different flavors: Try adding different flavors such as vanilla, pandan, or coconut to give your kalamay ube a unique twist.
- Use different types of sugar: Experiment with different types of sugar such as muscovado or turbinado to give your kalamay ube a distinct flavor.
- Add nuts or seeds: Try adding nuts or seeds such as coconut flakes, sesame seeds, or peanuts to give your kalamay ube added texture and flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Glutinous rice flour | 2 cups |
| Ube halaya | 1 cup |
| Coconut milk | 1 can (full-fat) |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Pandan leaves (optional) | 2-3 leaves |
| Banana leaves (optional) | 2-3 leaves |
In conclusion, cooking kalamay ube is a fun and rewarding process that requires patience, persistence, and practice. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious and authentic kalamay ube that’s sure to impress your friends and family. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the rich and creamy goodness of kalamay ube for yourself!
What is Kalamay Ube and where did it originate?
Kalamay Ube is a traditional Filipino dessert made from purple yam, also known as ube. It is a type of rice cake that is popular in the Philippines and is often served during special occasions. The dish originated from the province of Bohol, where ube is abundant.
Kalamay Ube is a beloved dessert in the Philippines, and its popularity has spread to other countries. The dish is known for its vibrant purple color and its sweet, nutty flavor. It is often served as a snack or dessert, and it is a popular treat during Filipino festivals and celebrations.
What are the ingredients needed to cook Kalamay Ube?
To cook Kalamay Ube, you will need the following ingredients: ube halaya (purple yam jam), glutinous rice flour, sugar, coconut milk, and water. You will also need a steamer or a large pot with a steamer basket to cook the rice cake. Optional ingredients include grated coconut, sesame seeds, and sugar for topping.
Make sure to use high-quality ingredients, especially the ube halaya, to ensure that your Kalamay Ube has the best flavor and texture. You can find ube halaya at most Asian grocery stores or online. If you can’t find ube halaya, you can also use fresh ube and cook it until it’s soft and mashed.
How do I prepare the ube halaya for cooking?
To prepare the ube halaya, simply heat it up in a pan over low heat until it’s soft and melted. You can also add a little water to thin out the halaya if it’s too thick. If you’re using fresh ube, you’ll need to boil or steam it until it’s soft, then mash it and mix it with sugar and coconut milk to create the halaya.
Make sure to stir the ube halaya constantly while it’s heating up to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan. You can also add a little butter or oil to the pan to prevent the halaya from sticking.
How do I mix the glutinous rice flour with the ube halaya?
To mix the glutinous rice flour with the ube halaya, simply combine the two ingredients in a large bowl and mix until a dough forms. You can add a little water to the mixture if it’s too dry, or a little more glutinous rice flour if it’s too wet. Make sure to mix the dough well until it’s smooth and pliable.
Knead the dough for a few minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You can also add a little sugar or coconut milk to the dough to give it more flavor. Make sure to knead the dough well to ensure that the Kalamay Ube is smooth and even in texture.
How do I shape the Kalamay Ube into small cakes?
To shape the Kalamay Ube into small cakes, simply divide the dough into small pieces and shape each piece into a small ball. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape, and make sure that the edges are smooth and even. You can also use a mold or a cookie cutter to shape the Kalamay Ube into different shapes.
Make sure to shape the Kalamay Ube evenly so that they cook evenly. You can also brush the tops of the cakes with a little coconut milk or water to give them a smooth and shiny surface.
How do I cook the Kalamay Ube in a steamer?
To cook the Kalamay Ube in a steamer, simply place the small cakes in a steamer basket and steam them over boiling water for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure that the water level is below the bottom of the steamer basket to prevent the cakes from getting wet.
You can also cook the Kalamay Ube in a large pot with a steamer basket. Simply place the pot over boiling water and cover it with a lid to trap the steam. Make sure to check the Kalamay Ube regularly to ensure that they’re cooked evenly and not too soft or too hard.
How do I serve the Kalamay Ube?
To serve the Kalamay Ube, simply place the small cakes on a plate or tray and top them with grated coconut, sesame seeds, or sugar. You can also serve the Kalamay Ube with a side of coconut milk or ube halaya for dipping.
Make sure to serve the Kalamay Ube warm or at room temperature. You can also refrigerate or freeze the Kalamay Ube for later use. Simply thaw the frozen Kalamay Ube at room temperature or reheat it in a steamer or microwave before serving.