Ube Vs. Taro
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Both ube and taro are tubers. They are commonly confused for one another.
Ube
Ube is a species of yam, a tuber. It has a deep purple colour. It goes by other names:
- Purple yam
- Ube
- Greater yam
It’s very commonly used in desserts. It has a mild, aromatic flavour, akin to vanilla or pandan.
In Vietnamese, it’s known as khoai mo.
Taro
Taro is a root vegetable, like a carrot or radish. It is white and speckled, with a faint shade of purple. It’s so lightly coloured that it appears gray in colour.
Taro can be used in desserts too. Again, it is also mild and aromatic. Taro can also be seen cooked in large chunks, like potatoes. This contrasts with ube, which would be grated or mashed.
In Vietnamese, it’s known as khoai mon.