Bubble tea, also known as boba tea or pearl milk tea, has become a popular beverage worldwide. It originated in Taiwan in the 1980s and has since spread to various parts of the world, particularly in Asia and North America. But what exactly is in a bubble tea? Is it a healthy drink? And what makes it so special?
What is in a bubble tea?
Bubble tea is a tea-based drink that typically contains milk, sweetener, and chewy tapioca pearls, also known as boba. The tea base can be black, green, or oolong tea, and the milk can be dairy or non-dairy milk such as almond or soy milk. Some bubble tea shops also offer fruit-based flavors, which may not contain milk.
In addition to the tea, milk, and sweetener, bubble tea may also contain other ingredients such as fruit syrups, fruit chunks, and jelly. Some shops also offer toppings such as grass jelly, aloe vera, or pudding.
Are bubble tea drinks healthy?
Whether or not bubble tea is a healthy drink depends on how it is made and what ingredients are used. Bubble tea can be high in sugar and calories, particularly if it contains sweetened condensed milk or syrups. Some bubble tea shops may also use artificial flavours and preservatives, which are not ideal for health.
However, it is possible to make bubble tea healthier by choosing unsweetened tea, using natural sweeteners such as honey or agave, and opting for non-dairy milk. Some bubble tea shops also offer healthier options such as matcha or fruit teas without added sugar.
What is so special about bubble tea?
One of the things that makes bubble tea special is the chewy tapioca pearls, which are made from cassava root starch. The pearls are cooked in boiling water and then added to the tea, giving the drink a unique texture and flavor. The bubbles in the name refer to the foam that forms on the top of the drink when it is shaken.
Bubble tea has also become popular because of its variety of flavours and customisation options. Customers can choose their tea base, milk, sweetener, and toppings, making it a fun and personalised drink.
Do you eat the pearls in bubble tea?
Yes, the tapioca pearls in bubble tea are meant to be eaten. They are chewy and slightly sweet, and add a fun and unique texture to the drink. Some people even like to suck the pearls up through a large straw specifically designed for bubble tea. Here are some of my favourite boba pearls.
Conclusion
Bubble tea is a tea-based drink that typically contains milk, sweetener, and chewy tapioca pearls. While it can be high in sugar and calories, it can also be made healthier by choosing unsweetened tea and natural sweeteners. The tapioca pearls are meant to be eaten and add a unique texture and flavour to the drink, making it a popular and fun beverage option.
