Frequently Asked Questions about Ube

Here are some common questions people ask about ube, especially in food, cooking, and dessert contexts:

What is ube? Ube is a purple yam originally from the Philippines, known for its vibrant violet color and mildly sweet, nutty, and vanilla-like flavor. Ube (pronounced oo-beh) is a vibrant, purple tuber or yam (Dioscorea alata) native to the Philippines.

Is ube the same as taro or purple sweet potato? No. Ube is different from taro and purple sweet potatoes in taste, texture, and appearance, though they’re often confused because of the similar color.

What does ube taste like? Ube has a subtly sweet, earthy flavor with hints of vanilla and pistachio.

What is ube used for? It’s commonly used in desserts such as ube halaya (jam), ice cream, cakes, pastries, cookies, and drinks.

Is ube natural or artificially colored? Real ube is naturally muted purple, but some products use artificial coloring and flavoring instead of real ube.

Is ube healthy? Yes. Ube contains antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious ingredient when used in moderation.

Where does ube come from? Ube originates from the Philippines and is a staple ingredient in Filipino cuisine.

Can you cook ube at home? Yes. Fresh or frozen ube can be boiled, steamed, baked, or mashed, though it often requires preparation to remove its starchy texture. Best cooked with condensed milk, coconut milk and sugar to bring out the best of ube.

Why is ube purple? Its color comes from natural antioxidants called anthocyanins, the same compounds found in blueberries and purple cabbage. Although the purpleness is different. Ube's purple is more on the bluish side, muted pruple rather than reddish.

What is the difference between Ube flavoring and Ube syrup?

Ube flavoring is great for boosting that distinct ube taste in your recipes. It’s light, concentrated, and not sweet on its own, so just a little goes a long way—usually about 1–2g per kilogram of mix. Ube syrup, on the other hand, not only adds flavor but also sweetness. It’s thick, rich, and sweet, making it perfect for adding by the spoonful to desserts, drinks, or toppings.

Do you want to discuss further? Email us via contact@aboutflavors.com

What is the difference between About Flavors Ube and Ubeness?

They’re actually the same product — the difference lies in the branding, packaging, and target market. About Flavors Ube Flavoring is mainly supplied to the HORECA (Hotels, Restaurants, Catering) sector and food manufacturers, and it’s also available in larger packaging sizes like 5 liters and 10 liters. Ubeness, on the other hand, is sold in retail outlets, supermarkets, and groceries, making it more accessible for home bakers and everyday consumers.

Both are produced by sister companies Dea Enterprise and Pamana World BV. The variation in brand name exists simply to make it easier for the market to pronounce and recognize the product.

What are the flavors offered by About Flavors?

Currently, About Flvaors flavorings available are Ube, Pandan, Buco Pandan Flavoring, Jackfruit (Langka), Philippine Mango Flavoring, Sweet Corn Flavoring, Calamansi-Lime Flavoring. Do you have a flavor request? Send an email to contact@aboutflavors.com.

Do you offer private label services?

We can discuss the possibilities. Send us an email via contact@aboutflavors.com.

May I request for a sample?

Sure! You can purchase some samples, and we will ship them to you. Check it out through this link - SAMPLES.

Where is my order?

A track and trace email has been sent to you for your order. Please check your spam folder as well. If you didn't receive the email, please let us know by emailing us your concern via contact@aboutflavors.com

Where can I find my invoice?

Your invoice is available on your accounts page. From there you can download it or repurchase the same item again. Can't find it? Email us at contact@aboutflavors.com

Can I buy in bulk?

Of course! Let us know through email which products you are interested in, and we will email you the wholesale prices.

Do you have recipes?

There are a few suggested recipes on different platforms. You can check them out:

Flavorings: ubeness.com

Syrups: Terifico.com

You can also check out About Flavors, Ubeness and Terifico social media accounts for inspiration.

Do you ship worldwide?

Currently we only ship to European countries. We are doing our best to reach for Middle East Asia and North America. Please stay tuned for more announcements.