Bubble Tea Recipe

Tapioca pearls: These chewy spheres are the hallmark of bubble tea. They provide a unique texture and are made from tapioca starch.

Boiling water: Necessary for cooking the tapioca pearls and brewing the black tea.

Black tea: Provides the strong, rich flavor base for the bubble tea.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the bubble tea, balancing the strong flavor of the black tea.

Sugar: Sweetens the bubble tea to your taste.

When cooking tapioca pearls, make sure to stir them occasionally to prevent them from sticking together. After boiling, let them sit covered for an additional 15 minutes to achieve the perfect chewy texture. Rinse the pearls with cold water to stop the cooking process and to keep them from becoming too soft.

• tapioca pearls - Substitute with sago pearls: Sago pearls have a similar chewy texture and can be used in place of tapioca pearls in bubble tea.

• boiling water - Substitute with hot water: Hot water can be used to steep the tea bags and cook the tapioca pearls effectively.

• black tea - Substitute with green tea: Green tea provides a different but refreshing flavor profile and can be used as a base for bubble tea.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that adds a nutty flavor to the bubble tea.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey is a natural sweetener that can replace sugar, adding a different layer of sweetness to the bubble tea.

• Allow the tapioca pearls to cool completely before storing. This prevents them from becoming mushy.
• Transfer the tapioca pearls to an airtight container. Add a small amount of sugar syrup to keep them from sticking together.
• Store the tapioca pearls in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in boiling water for a few minutes before using.
• For the tea mixture, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
• Keep the tea mixture in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake well before using to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed.
• If you wish to freeze the tea mixture, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Transfer the tea cubes to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
• To serve, thaw the tea cubes in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Mix with milk and add the reheated tapioca pearls.
• Avoid freezing the tapioca pearls as they can lose their chewy texture and become hard.

• Gently reheat the tapioca pearls by placing them in a saucepan with a small amount of water. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they regain their chewy texture. Avoid boiling to prevent them from becoming too soft.

• Alternatively, you can microwave the tapioca pearls by placing them in a microwave-safe bowl with a bit of water. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until they are warm and soft.

• For the tea mixture, pour it into a saucepan and gently warm over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid bringing it to a boil to maintain the flavor and prevent the milk from curdling.

• If you prefer using a microwave, pour the tea mixture into a microwave-safe mug or bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired temperature.

• Once both components are reheated, combine the tapioca pearls and tea mixture in a glass. Add ice if desired, and enjoy your reheated bubble tea with a straw.

• Saucepan: Used to boil water and cook the tapioca pearls.

• Strainer: Needed to strain the cooked tapioca pearls.

• Measuring cups: Essential for measuring the tapioca pearls, water, and milk accurately.

• Stirring spoon: Used to stir the tapioca pearls while they cook.

• Teapot or kettle: Used to brew the black tea.

• Teacups: Used to steep the tea bags.

• Large glasses: Used to serve the bubble tea.

• Straws: Essential for drinking bubble tea, especially the wide ones that can accommodate tapioca pearls.

• Cover or lid: Needed to cover the saucepan while the tapioca pearls sit.

• Ice cube tray: Optional, if you want to add ice to your bubble tea.

Prepare the tapioca pearls in advance: Cook and store tapioca pearls in the fridge for up to 3 days to save time on the day you make bubble tea.

Use instant tea: Replace tea bags with instant black tea powder to cut down on brewing time.

Sweeten while hot: Dissolve sugar in hot tea immediately to ensure it mixes well, saving you from extra stirring later.

Pre-mix the milk tea: Combine milk and tea ahead of time and store in the fridge, so you only need to add tapioca pearls and ice when ready to serve.