When it comes to pasalubong classics, nothing is more iconic than a jar of ube halaya. Smooth, creamy, and purple as royalty—it’s the taste of childhood summers and Baguio’s cool air in every spoonful. But how does Tagaytay’s Amira’s stack up against Baguio’s famed Good Shepherd?
My sister introduced me to Amira's Ube Halaya when we went to Tagaytay a few weeks back. She said that I should try it. My husband loves ube halaya, so I went ahead and bought a tray for pasalubong (homecoming gift).
Good Shepherd Ube Halaya
Still the gold standard. Smooth, light, and delicate without being overly rich, it’s the kind of halaya you can enjoy generously, spoon after spoon. There’s no heaviness, no overwhelming sweetness—just the subtle nuttiness of real ube balanced with cream. It feels indulgent yet comforting, the way ube halaya should be.
This particular ube halaya is very versatile, too. I've made ice cream, pancakes, and cupcakes with it.
Amira’s Ube Halaya
Unfortunately, Amira’s version misses the mark. The strong coconut milk flavor overshadows the ube, and there are solid bits in the mix that disrupt the otherwise creamy experience. It was also a tad too sweet for me. I had a hard time finishing one tablespoon. Worse, it gave both my son and I a terrible tummy ache. For sensitive stomachs, I would recommend steering clear.
The Experience
Side by side, the difference is clear. Good Shepherd’s halaya is refined and trustworthy—you know exactly what you’re getting with every jar. Amira’s, while packaged as a premium pasalubong, feels unbalanced and even risky for those with food sensitivities.
Verdict
Good Shepherd retains the crown. It’s smooth, light, and indulgent without fear—making it the superior choice every single time.
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