Piyaya with Purple Yam Fillings

Name: Piyaya with Purple Yam Fillings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 6 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup water; 1 medium-sized purple yam (ube); Water for boiling; 1 cup sugar; 2 tbsp butter; 1 cup all-purpose flour (for the filling); A bit of water (to help with consistency); Sesame seeds (for topping)

Piyaya is a beloved Filipino treat that features a flaky pastry filled with sweet ingredients, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. This version, featuring purple yam fillings, showcases the vibrant color and unique flavor of ube, making for a delightful experience for your taste buds. The combination of a tender outer layer and sweet yam filling makes it a popular choice among many.

Why Make This Recipe

Creating piyaya with purple yam fillings is an enjoyable culinary project that brings the essence of Filipino culture into your kitchen. Not only does this recipe allow you to explore traditional flavors, but it also provides a fun opportunity to involve family and friends in the cooking process. The process of making the dough, mashing the yam, and assembling these delightful pastries can turn into an engaging activity for everyone. Plus, who can resist that beautiful purple hue?

Whether you’re preparing for a celebration, or simply wanting a tasty snack, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. It’s a crowd-pleaser that guarantees satisfaction with every bite.

How to Make Piyaya with Purple Yam Fillings

Ingredients

To make delicious piyaya with purple yam fillings, you will need the following ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour
6 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp salt
1 cup water
1 medium-sized purple yam (ube)
Water for boiling
1 cup sugar
2 tbsp butter
1 cup all-purpose flour (for the filling)
A bit of water (to help with consistency)
Sesame seeds (for topping)

Directions

Start by combining all the ingredients from Set A in a mixing bowl. Mix the flour, vegetable oil, salt, and water until everything is well combined.
Knead the dough until it becomes soft and malleable. Once done, cover the dough and allow it to rest for about 35 minutes.
While the dough is resting, boil the purple yam in water until it becomes soft. Once cooked, mash the yam until it reaches a smooth consistency.
To the mashed yam, mix in the sugar and gradually incorporate 1 cup of flour until just combined.
In a heated pan, melt the butter then add the purple yam mixture. Stir frequently and cook until the mixture is somewhat dry; this may take a few minutes. Set aside the filling to cool.
Once the filling has cooled, shape it into approximately 20 small balls.
After the dough has rested, return it to your working area. Lightly oil your hands, then roll the dough into a log shape and divide it into two equal pieces.
Roll and cut each piece into 20 smaller portions. Flatten each dough ball slightly, then place an ube ball in the center of each one.
Carefully form the dough into a ball around the filling, ensuring it is sealed well. Once sealed, flatten the ball gently with a rolling pin or a glass to achieve a round shape.
Brush the top of each piyaya with water and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
In a heated pan over low to medium heat, cook the piyaya, flipping them every minute or so, until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Pro Tips for Success with Piyaya

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh purple yam for the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh ube, you can use frozen ones, but make sure to thaw them fully before cooking.
Control Dough Consistency: If your dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour. Conversely, if it is too dry, add a small amount of water to achieve the right consistency.
Even Filling Size: To ensure even cooking and presentation, it’s essential to make your yam balls uniform in size.
Temperature Control: Cooking at low to medium heat prevents the outer dough from burning while allowing the inside to cook through and gain a delightful crispness.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of vanilla extract or coconut milk to the yam filling for extra flavor.

Flavor Variations for Piyaya

Coconut Flavored: Mix shredded coconut into the yam filling for a tropical twist.
Chocolate Piyaya: Incorporate cocoa powder into the dough for a chocolatey version, and consider adding chocolate chips to the filling.
Adding Nuts: Include crushed cashews or peanuts into the yam filling for an added crunch and flavor component.
Miniature Version: Create smaller piyaya for bite-sized treats that are perfect for gatherings.

Serving Suggestions for Piyaya

Piyaya with purple yam fillings can be enjoyed warm, or at room temperature. Pair these delightful treats with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a complete experience. They also make for an excellent addition to any dessert platter and can be served alongside fruits or other pastries for a diverse snack selection.

For a unique flair, consider dusting them with powdered sugar or serving with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk on the side for dipping.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Piyaya

Piyaya can be stored at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to save some for later, piyaya freezes beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-friendly bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and then warm in a pan over low heat until heated through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|————-|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 150mg |

FAQ About Piyaya with Purple Yam Fillings

Can I use other flavors for the filling?

Absolutely! While purple yam is traditional, you can experiment with other fillings like sweetened mung beans, coconut, or even chocolate. The beauty of piyaya is its versatility!

Is it difficult to make piyaya?

Making piyaya is relatively straightforward, and the process can be a fun activity to engage families and friends. With a little patience while preparing the dough and filling, you’ll find it quite manageable.

Can I bake piyaya instead of frying them?

Though traditional piyaya is pan-fried for that perfect crispness, you can try baking them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a healthier alternative. They might not be as crispy but can still be delicious!

What can I serve with piyaya?

Piyaya pairs nicely with a variety of beverages such as tea, coffee, or even coconut milk. You can also enjoy them with fresh fruits, ice cream, or a scoop of whipped cream.

How do I know when the piyaya is cooked?

Piyaya is done when the exterior turns a lovely golden brown color and the texture feels crispy to the touch. Avoid high heat to ensure the inside cooks thoroughly without burning the outside.

Final Thoughts

Piyaya with purple yam fillings is an incredible treat that brings warmth and delightful flavors to your table. Whether you’re indulging in the chewy, sweet interior or the crispy outer layer, these pastries are sure to delight your senses. The process of making them can be a fun gathering activity or a satisfying solo experience.

Take the leap to cook this delicious recipe and share it with your loved ones. With each bite, you’ll appreciate the tradition and love infused into this delightful Filipino pastry. Enjoy your culinary journey!