Bubble Tea originated in Taiwan with blends of tea with sweet flavors. It
is served over tapioca, which we call Bubbles. The tapioca is 1/4" diameter and
is slightly sweet with a gummy bear texture. It is nothing like tapioca pudding.
These tapioca pearls are made mostly of tapioca starch, which comes from the bitter-cassava
plant. A caramel flavor is added in the process of shaping, but there is no strong,
discernable flavor. The bubbles (tapioca) are a part of the drink for texture.
If a flavorful chewy treat is desired, replace the tapioca with jellies. There are
usually 3 flavors of jellies available. The jellies are a simple gelatin treat that
are strongly flavored like candy.
The original bubble tea consisted of a hot Taiwanese black tea, tapioca pearls,
condensed milk, and honey. Now, it is left to your liking as to what tea, what desert
at the bottom, and what flavors or juices to add. Teas available are Green Tea,
Black Tea, and Thai Tea. Other than the typical black tapoica, you can choose colorful
tapioca or flavored Jellies. Non-dairy creamer is used.
