Keep Tapioca Pearls Fresh Longer
A classic brown sugar bubble tea featuring perfectly chewy tapioca pearls, sweet brown sugar syrup, and creamy milk tea. A delightful treat to make at home.
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup dried tapioca pearls (boba)
- 2 cups water for cooking pearls
- 0.5 cup brown sugar for syrup
- 0.5 cup water for syrup
- 2 bags black tea or 2 tsp loose leaf
- 1 cup hot water for tea
- 0.5 cup milk or creamer of choice
Instructions
- Cook tapioca pearls: Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small pot. Add dried tapioca pearls, stir gently, and cook according to package instructions (typically 20-25 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. They should be translucent with a slight chewiness. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Prepare brown sugar syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Steep tea: Place tea bags in a mug with 1 cup hot water. Steep for 3-5 minutes, then remove tea bags. Let it cool slightly or chill if preferred.
- Assemble bubble tea: In a serving glass, add the cooked tapioca pearls. Pour 2-3 tablespoons of the brown sugar syrup over the pearls, coating them well. Add ice cubes.
- Pour in the steeped black tea, then top with milk or creamer. Stir well and enjoy immediately with a wide straw.
Notes
Adjust sweetness to taste. For a richer flavor, use whole milk or a non-dairy creamer. Cook pearls according to package directions, as times can vary. Leftover brown sugar syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.