Thirst-quenching, gourmet, and fun, bubble tea has been a staple in specialty stores for years. Usually served in a clear plastic cup with an XXL straw, it is unfortunately not the most ecological drink. But did you know that it is entirely possible to make it at home without producing any waste? Follow our recipe to enjoy this trendy drink without contributing to the overconsumption of single-use plastic.
A drink made in Taiwan
Bubble tea or boba tea was born off the coast of China, on the island of Taiwan. Made from black or green tea, milk, and large black tapioca pearls, the drink has been in effect in France for several years. The jelly-like texture of its tiny edible spheres, produced from a starch extracted from the cassava root, has its fans completely hooked.
Small problem and not the least: the consumption of this drink that is very popular with generations Y and Z goes hand in hand with catastrophic plastic pollution for the planet. Because to admire and suck these funny black marbles at the bottom of your glass, you need a transparent plastic glass and an XXL straw…
Good news: this candy drink is super easy to make at home. All you need to do is find reusable stainless steel or bamboo straws big enough to suck up the tapioca pearls.
Classic bubble tea recipe
Today, the variety of bubble teas offered in stores is endless. It is found in black tea, green tea, oolong tea, or white tea. Some even add ice, syrups or fresh fruit. But the original recipe is very simple, containing only four ingredients: black tea, milk, tapioca pearls, and honey or sugar. If the classic version is made with cow’s milk, it adapts perfectly to the vegan version with soy, coconut, oat or almond milk. You choose !
For a large glass:
- 200ml water
- 1 teaspoon black tea
- 3 tablespoons plant-based milk
- 40 g tapioca pearls
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- ice cubes (optional)
To step:
- Heat the water without boiling it and let the tea steep.
- Add a spoonful of honey or sugar.
- Remove the bag and let the tea cool at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Meanwhile, heat a pan of water. Dip the tapioca pearls in boiling water.
- Cook over medium heat for the time indicated on the bag (between 7 and 25 minutes, depending on the variety).
- Rinse the tapioca pearls with cold water and place them in the bottom of a glass.
- Top with tea and add milk and ice cubes if desired.
- Mix everything and enjoy your bubble tea with a wide straw to suck up the tapioca pearls!
Did you like this recipe? Also discover how to make a fruit kefir, this drink with multiple virtues