Ube vs Matcha: What's the Difference Between These Two Trends?
For the past few years, matcha has reigned supreme on coffee shop menus. But a new contender, just as colorful, is starting to steal its spotlight: ube. Industry analysts at GlobalData have even called ube “the next matcha.” So, green or purple? Let's compare.
Two origins, two stories
Matcha is a Japanese green tea powder: the leaves are shade-grown, then finely ground on a stone mill, and the tea carries a ceremonial tradition that goes back centuries. Ube, on the other hand, is a purple yam from the Philippines, used for generations in traditional desserts before becoming a social media star in recent years.
Side by side
| Ube | Matcha | |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Deep purple | Bright green |
| Taste | Sweet, vanilla-like, slightly nutty | Grassy, slightly bitter, umami |
| Caffeine | None (unless you add espresso) | Yes, moderate |
| Origin | Philippines | Japan |
| Traditional use | Desserts and pastries | Tea ceremony, drinks |
| Key nutritional benefits | Fiber, vitamin C, anthocyanins | Catechins, L-theanine, antioxidants |
Which one should you choose?
If you're after a caffeine-free drink that's gentler and more indulgent, perfect for late afternoon or if you're sensitive to caffeine, an ube latte is an excellent choice. If you want an energy boost that's softer than coffee but still has some caffeine, matcha remains a safe bet. The good news: nothing stops you from trying both, or even combining them in a layered “Ube Matcha Latte,” a twist already offered by several major US chains and a big hit on social media.
One thing is certain
Both ingredients share one essential trait: a spectacular, 100% natural color, perfect for creating drinks you enjoy with your eyes as much as with your taste buds.
Making an ube latte at home
To taste the difference for yourself, all you need is one heaped teaspoon (about 5 g) of Ube Latte powder. Whisk it for a few seconds in a splash of hot water, then top up with about 200 ml of hot or cold milk. No machine, no bamboo whisk: your drink is ready in 90 seconds.
Prefer it chilled? Follow our iced ube latte recipe. And if you run a café, discover our offer for professionals to serve ube alongside matcha on your menu.
Ube Latte
