As the charming hue of a sunset enveloped my kitchen, the scent of sweet ube began to waft through the air, transforming my evening into something special. Ube Champorado is not just a dish; it’s a delightful journey back to my childhood, where each spoonful holds memories of warmth and comfort. This vibrant purple rice porridge is a playful twist on a classic, infusing traditional flavors with that beautiful touch of ube, a Filipino sweet potato adored for its unique taste and stunning color.
After a busy week, I craved something that reminded me of home — something easy yet incredibly satisfying. And that’s where this recipe shines. With just a handful of ingredients, including glutinous rice and a hint of sugar, I could whip up a delightful bowl of happiness in less than 30 minutes. Each bowl is creamy, subtly sweet, and perfect for enjoying as breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create your very own Ube Champorado and add a splash of joy to your table!
Why choose Ube Champorado for breakfast?
Unforgettable Experience: This vibrant dish brings a touch of nostalgia to your table, evoking memories of cherished moments.
Quick & Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy a delightful treat in under half an hour.
Versatile Delight: Whether enjoyed as a breakfast dish, dessert, or snack, Ube Champorado fits any occasion with its creamy, sweet goodness.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this recipe brings smiles with its unique flavor and captivating color.
Healthier Twist: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it offers a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping those calories in check.
Elevate your culinary adventure with this simple yet extraordinary dish — find more comforting recipes in my post about cozy breakfast ideas.
Ube Champorado Ingredients
For the Champorado
- Water – 4 cups will create the perfect consistency for your Ube Champorado.
- Glutinous Rice – 1 cup for that delightful chewy texture that makes this dish comforting.
- Sugar – 1/2 cup to balance the earthy sweetness of the ube, but feel free to adjust to taste!
- Ube Powder – 1 cup is essential for achieving that vibrant purple color and rich flavor.
For the Serving
- Powdered Milk – 1 cup adds a creamy, extra touch when dusted over each bowl for a delightful finish.
How to Make Ube Champorado
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Boil Water: In a pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil over high heat. The bring to a simmer will set the stage for the rice to cook perfectly.
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Add Rice: Stir in the glutinous rice and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch for the rice to become slightly translucent and tender.
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Combine Ube: Dissolve the ube powder in 1 cup of warm water, then pour this mixture into the pot. Its stunning purple color will soon transform your dish into a visual delight!
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Sweeten It Up: Reduce heat to medium-low, add the sugar, and stir occasionally. Continue stirring until the flavors meld beautifully — about 10-15 minutes.
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Check Consistency: Once the rice has fully cooked and the consistency is just right—thick and creamy—remove from heat. You’ll know it’s perfect when spooning it creates soft peaks.
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Serve Delightfully: Ladle the Ube Champorado into bowls, and dust each serving with powdered milk. This final touch adds an extra layer of creaminess that elevates every bite!
Optional: Top with toasted coconut flakes for a delightful crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Ube Champorado is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the entire dish up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of serving, then allow the Champorado to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it until you’re ready to enjoy. When serving, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency, and stir in the powdered milk right before serving. By prepping in advance, you will save time during busy mornings or late-night cravings, yet still enjoy that creamy, comforting flavor just as if it were freshly made!
What to Serve with Ube Champorado?
Indulging in a warm bowl of Ube Champorado sets a scene of comfort and nostalgia that invites delightful pairings to enhance your meal experience.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon balances the sweet, creamy texture of the champorado, creating a harmonious contrast. It’s the perfect addition for a heartier breakfast!
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Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and banana adds a refreshing sweetness and bright color to your table. The vibrant flavors will lift your spirits like a sunny day.
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Toasty Pandesal: These soft, buttery bread rolls are perfect for dipping into your Ube Champorado, making every bite an exciting little adventure. The slightly sweet bread complements the dish beautifully.
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Coffee or Milk Tea: A warm cup of coffee or a soothing milk tea pairs perfectly with this delightful dish, elevating your breakfast into a cozy ritual. Both beverages enhance the comforting nature of the champion of champorado.
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Sweetened Coconut Flakes: A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes creates a crunchy texture contrast that makes each spoonful delightful. Plus, it adds a nutty flavor that harmonizes wonderfully with the ube.
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Dark Chocolate Shavings: For an unexpected twist, garnish with dark chocolate curls to add a touch of bitterness against the sweetness. This contrast makes every bite intriguing and decadent!
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Cheese Rolls: These savory treats create a delicious contrast by adding a creamy, cheesy flavor profile that pairs well with the sweetness of the champorado. It’s a fun way to surprise your taste buds!
How to Store and Freeze Ube Champorado
Fridge: Store Ube Champorado in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to restore creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Ube Champorado in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to enjoy the delightful flavors again.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, heat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a little water or milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Serving Tip: Dust with powdered milk just before serving for that extra creamy touch that makes each bowl a comforting treat!
Expert Tips for Ube Champorado
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Perfect Rice: Use glutinous rice as it provides that signature chewy texture. Avoid using regular rice, as it will overly soften.
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Color Check: Ensure your ube powder is fresh and vibrant. Stale ube powder can result in a dull color and flavor, ruining your Ube Champorado presentation.
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Consistency Matters: Watch the pot closely during cooking; you want the porridge thick and creamy, but overcooking can lead to a gritty texture.
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Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the sugar amount based on your preference. Start with less sugar, and add more as needed to avoid overwhelming the dish.
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Creamy Finish: Always dust with powdered milk before serving; it adds a lovely creamy finish that balances the sweetness of the ube.
Ube Champorado Variations
Feel free to play around with the flavors and textures of this delightful dish to make it your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute powdered milk with coconut milk for a rich, creamy dairy-free twist that complements the ube beautifully.
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Sweetener Swap: Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness that adds a unique flavor profile to your champorado.
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Nutty Touch: Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top for an unexpected nutty crunch that elevates each spoonful.
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Fruity Boost: Mix in diced mango or banana while cooking for a tropical flair and added natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with ube.
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Flavor Infusion: Stir in a dash of vanilla extract toward the end of cooking for a warm, comforting aroma that enhances the overall experience.
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Chocolate Variation: Add cocoa powder along with the ube powder for a rich, chocolatey champorado that’s perfect for those who crave a bit of indulgence.
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Spice It Up: Toss in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that brings an inviting aroma to your kitchen.
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Vegan Cream: Top it with whipped coconut cream instead of powdered milk for a luscious, vegan-friendly finish that adds a touch of decadence to each bowl.
Ube Champorado Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ube powder?
Select a high-quality ube powder that has a vibrant purple color and a rich, sweet aroma. Avoid any powders that appear dull or have an off smell, as these can negatively affect the flavor and appearance of your Ube Champorado.
How should I store leftover Ube Champorado?
Store any leftover Ube Champorado in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Ube Champorado?
Absolutely! You can freeze Ube Champorado in sealed containers for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool completely first. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a bit of water or milk as needed to achieve your desired creaminess!
What should I do if my Ube Champorado is too thick?
If your Ube Champorado turns out too thick after cooking, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of warm water or milk while stirring gently on low heat until you reach your preferred consistency. This will help rehydrate the rice and give it that luscious, creamy texture you’re looking for.
Are there any dietary considerations for Ube Champorado?
Yes! When preparing Ube Champorado, be aware of any allergies or dietary restrictions. For a dairy-free version, substitute powdered milk with coconut milk or a plant-based milk alternative. Always check ingredient packaging for allergens, especially if serving to friends or family with specific dietary needs.
Can I add toppings to my Ube Champorado?
Very! Feel free to get creative with toppings. You can add toasted coconut flakes, fresh fruit, or nuts for added texture and flavor. Each topping adds a personalized touch, making your Ube Champorado even more delightful to enjoy!
Sweet and Creamy Ube Champorado for Breakfast Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil over high heat. Then, bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the glutinous rice and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Dissolve the ube powder in 1 cup of warm water, then pour this mixture into the pot.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, add the sugar, and stir occasionally for 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from heat when the porridge is thick and creamy, with soft peaks.
- Ladle the Ube Champorado into bowls and dust with powdered milk before serving.
