Iced Bubble Tea (Boba Tea)

Ingredients

For the Tapioca Pearls (Boba):

• 1 cup dried tapioca pearls (large boba pearls)
• Water (plenty for boiling)

For the Syrup:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup water (you can use the starchy water from the cooked pearls)

For the Iced Tea:

• 2 cups strong brewed tea, chilled (Black, Green, or Fruit tea)
• 1 to 2 cups whole milk, coconut milk, or plant-based milk
• Ice cubes to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tapioca Pearls

• Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the tapioca pearls and cook for about 20 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the pearls rest in the hot water for another 10 to 20 minutes. They should be soft and translucent.
• Drain the pearls and rinse them under cold running water until completely cooled. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Brown Sugar Syrup

• In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly into a thin syrup.
• Add the cooked and drained tapioca pearls to the warm syrup and mix well. Let the mixture cool to room temperature so the pearls can absorb the sweetness.

3. Assemble the Drink

• In a tall glass, place a generous portion of the tapioca pearls with syrup at the bottom. You can swirl the glass so the syrup coats the sides.
• Add ice cubes.
• Pour in the chilled tea and, if you prefer a creamy milk tea, add the milk.
• Serve immediately with a wide straw (boba straw) so you can enjoy the pearls.

Enjoy your refreshing Iced Bubble Tea!

Benefits & Notes

Benefits:

Iced bubble tea is a refreshing and flavorful treat, perfect for hot days . Depending on the tea used (black, green, or herbal), it can provide antioxidants, aid in hydration, and offer a light energy boost. The tapioca pearls provide quick-absorbing carbohydrates, making it a satisfying treat.

Precautions:

While delicious, it should be consumed in moderation . Tapioca pearls are high in carbohydrates and can raise glycemic levels, so they are not recommended in excess for diabetics. Sweetened recipes or those containing caffeine should also be avoided by children, pregnant women, and sensitive individuals.