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Author: Stew Hang

Back to School with Better Boba: Fun Ways to Integrate Bubble Tea into the School Year

As summer fades and the school bells ring, it’s time to gear up for a new academic year. If you’re looking to add a fun twist to the back-to-school season, why not incorporate boba tea into your school activities? This delightful drink, known for its chewy tapioca pearls and endless flavor combinations, can bring a splash of excitement to your school routine. Here are some creative ways to enjoy boba at school, making your educational journey both delicious and memorable.

Boba-Enhanced Study Breaks

  • A long day of classes can be exhausting. Rejuvenate your study sessions with a boba-themed break! Set up a mini boba station at home or in your dorm. Stock up on various flavors of tea, flavored syrups, and tapioca pearls. You can even experiment with different tea bases like matcha, jasmine, or classic milk tea. Invite friends for a boba study break where everyone creates their own custom drink. This not only adds a fun social element but also makes studying feel a lot less like a chore.

Boba Snacks for School Lunch Boxes

  • Go beyond the tea and try boba on your favorite snacks! While carrying a full boba drink to school might be impractical, you can pack the pearls to scoop on fruit salad, yogurt bowls, or simply on their own.  These treats are a fun way to indulge in your favorite boba flavors during lunchtime without the need for a straw.

Boba-Inspired Fundraisers

  • Boba tea can also play a role in school events and fundraisers. Organize a boba tea stand at school events, like sports games or fundraisers, and offer a variety of boba flavors for students and parents to enjoy. You could even partner with a local boba shop to host a fundraising event where a portion of the proceeds goes to your school’s cause. Not only does this support your school, but it also gives everyone a chance to savor some delicious bubble tea.

Back-to-School Boba Recipes

Why not kick off the school year with a couple of back-to-school themed boba recipes? Here are two fun and easy recipes to try:

Apple Cinnamon Boba Tea

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup apple juice
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup better boba all-natural classic pearls, prepared
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the apple juice and honey (or maple syrup) until warm but not boiling.
  2. Stir in the cinnamon and mix well.
  3. Let the apple mixture cool slightly, then combine it with the milk.
  4. In a glass, add ice cubes and then scoop the boba.
  5. Pour the apple-cinnamon mixture over the pearls.
  6. Stir well and enjoy a cozy, fall-inspired treat!

Tropical Mango Boba Smoothie

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup frozen mango chunks
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • ¼ cup better boba all-natural classic pearls, prepared
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Blend the frozen mango, coconut milk, yogurt, and honey (or agave syrup) until smooth.
  2. Add a handful of ice cubes and blend again until well chilled.
  3. In a glass, add the boba.
  4. Pour the mango smoothie over the pearls.
  5. Stir gently and enjoy a refreshing, tropical boba drink!

New Year, New You!

Incorporating boba into your back-to-school routine not only adds a fun twist to everyday activities but also brings people together through shared enjoyment. Whether you’re sipping on a customized drink during a study break, enjoying boba-inspired snacks, or participating in a boba-themed fundraiser, there’s no shortage of creative ways to make the school year a bit more bubbly and exciting. Remember that our boba tea kits make an excellent back to school gift.  Cheers to a fantastic school year with a touch of boba bliss! 

Boba Beyond Borders: Boba Drinks from Around the World

Boba Beyond Borders: Culturally Infused Bubble Tea from Around the World

Boba, or bubble tea, has evolved from its Taiwanese origins to become a beloved global phenomenon loved around the world. What started as a simple combination of tea, milk, and tapioca pearls has blossomed into a canvas for creativity and cultural fusion. Across the globe, different cultures have put their unique spin on this refreshing drink, incorporating local flavors and ingredients. 

Here are ten of our favorite culturally infused boba drinks from around the world:

  1. Salep Boba (Turkey): Salep Boba combines traditional salep, a flour made from orchid tubers, with milk, sugar, and tapioca pearls. This creamy, aromatic drink is often garnished with cinnamon or nuts, offering a rich and comforting experience.
  2. Thai Tea Boba (Thailand) A favorite in Thailand and beyond, Thai Tea Boba features strongly brewed Thai tea mixed with condensed milk and served over ice with tapioca pearls. Its vibrant orange hue and sweet, creamy taste make it instantly recognizable and utterly irresistible.
  3. Egg Coffee Boba (Vietnam): In Vietnam, egg coffee is a beloved specialty. When transformed into a boba drink, it combines strong Vietnamese coffee with egg yolk, condensed milk, and tapioca pearls. The result is a decadent and creamy beverage that’s as indulgent as it is unique.
  4. Halo-Halo Boba (Philippines): Halo-Halo, meaning “mix-mix” in Filipino, is a dessert that features a medley of ingredients like sweet beans, fruits, jellies, and shaved ice. When adapted into a boba drink, it retains its colorful and refreshing qualities, with the addition of tapioca pearls adding a delightful chewy texture.
  5. Iced Chai Boba (India) Chai, the quintessential Indian spiced tea, takes on a new form with the addition of tapioca pearls. This boba drink combines aromatic black tea with a blend of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, sweetened with milk and sugar, creating a comforting and fragrant beverage.
  6. French Lavender Boba (France): Lavender, a fragrant herb synonymous with Provence in southern France, is infused into various culinary delights. In boba tea form, lavender adds a floral and aromatic essence, creating a soothing and sophisticated drink experience.
  7. Greek Frappé Boba (Greece): The Greek Frappé, a frothy iced coffee made from instant coffee, water, and sugar, is a popular summer beverage in Greece. When turned into boba tea, it offers a caffeinated and slightly sweetened treat with the added texture of tapioca pearls.
  8. Horchata Boba (Mexico): Horchata, a refreshing drink made from rice, almonds, and cinnamon, is popular in Mexico and Central America. As a boba drink, it incorporates these flavors with sweetened milk and tapioca pearls, creating a creamy and cinnamon-infused delight.
  9. Misugaru Boba (Korea): Misugaru is a Korean multigrain powder traditionally mixed with milk or water. When adapted into a boba drink, it combines this nutritious powder with milk and tapioca pearls, offering a wholesome and slightly nutty flavor profile.
  10. Sorrel Boba (Jamaica): Sorrel, a festive drink made from hibiscus flowers steeped with ginger and spices, is a staple during Jamaican holidays. As a boba drink, it features the tangy and floral notes of sorrel combined with milk and tapioca pearls, creating a refreshing and uniquely Caribbean experience.
  11. Açaí Boba (Brazil): Açaí, a superfood berry native to Brazil, is celebrated for its vibrant purple hue and antioxidant-rich properties. In boba form, it blends açaí puree with milk or coconut water and tapioca pearls, offering a refreshing and nutritious twist on traditional boba drinks.

From the creamy Turkish Salep Boba to the antioxidant-packed Brazilian Açaí Boba, these culturally infused variations showcase the versatility and global appeal of boba. Whether you’re craving the rich flavors of Vietnam or the fragrant spices of India, boba drinks offer a delightful way to explore the world’s diverse culinary traditions, one sip at a time using our all-natural boba.

Share With Us on Social Media

If you try one of our recipes, tag @thebetterboba and use the hashtags #BetterBoba #AllNaturalBoba. We love our communiTEA and often give away free bags of boba. Get creative and have fun!

From Cup to Cocktail: Summer Boba Trends

 

As the temperatures rise, the boba (or bubble tea) scene is buzzing with excitement over new flavors, innovative combinations, and sustainable practices. Whether you’re a seasoned boba enthusiast or just getting started, here are the top boba trends for Summer 2024:

 

Exotic Fruit Fusions:

This summer, boba lovers are embracing the tropical vibes with exotic fruit fusions. From dragon fruit to lychee and mango to passion fruit, boba shops are experimenting with bold and refreshing flavors. Try a lychee coconut boba or a pineapple peach tea with tapioca pearls—each sip bursting with fruity goodness.

 

Culturally Infused Boba:

One of the standout trends this summer is the celebration of cultural diversity through boba flavors. Countries around the world are infusing local flavors into their bubble tea offerings – Turkish Salep Boba, Brazilian Acai Boba, Mexican Horchata Boba, and Italian Tiramisu Boba, to name a few. 

 

Boozy Boba:

Adult-friendly boba beverages infused with alcohol such as rum, vodka, or sake are gaining popularity. These cocktails combine the fun of boba with the sophistication of spirits. Check out the boozy boba recipes by better boba, featuring fun ideas for the 21+ crowd.

 

Health-Conscious Choices:

As wellness continues to be a priority for many, boba shops are responding with health-conscious options that don’t compromise on taste. Sugar-free syrups, organic teas, and plant-based milk alternatives are catering to health-conscious consumers looking for nutritious boba options. Try better boba’s all-natural classic pearls, the only boba with no artificial ingredients, additives, or preservatives. The pearls are also vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and certified kosher. 

 

For those seeking an extra boost, protein-packed boba shakes and smoothies are also a popular post-workout snack. 

Eco-Friendly Initiatives:

In line with global efforts towards sustainability, boba shops are stepping up their eco-friendly practices. Biodegradable cups, reusable straws made from bamboo or stainless steel, and compostable packaging are becoming standard offerings. Some shops even partner with local farmers for responsibly sourced ingredients, reducing their carbon footprint and supporting sustainable agriculture. These initiatives not only promote environmental consciousness but also empower consumers to make eco-friendly choices while enjoying their favorite boba drinks.

DIY Boba Kits:

With the rise of home-based hobbies, DIY boba kits are on the rise. These kits come with everything you need to create your own boba masterpiece at home, from tapioca pearls and tea blends to syrups and toppings. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy boba while developing your barista skills. Try the premium tea kits by better boba, featuring all-natural packaged pearls and organic tea from Tao of Tea.

Crackling Chocolate Cups:

Crackling chocolate cups are trending in the boba scene as a delightful and innovative twist on traditional bubble tea presentations. These cups typically involve a layer of chocolate coating inside the cup, which creates a satisfying crackling sensation when the drink is prepared and consumed. 

This summer, boba enthusiasts can look forward to a vibrant tapestry of flavors, from exotic fruit fusions to culturally inspired creations. With a focus on sustainability and health-conscious choices, each sip represents a celebration of global culinary influences and the joy of discovering new and innovative boba trends. Happy sipping!

Share With Us on Social Media

Share your love for Bubble Tea by tagging @thebetterboba on Instagram with your favorite Bubble Tea Drink or Boba Bar setup. Our favorites have a chance to win free boba!

Bubble Tea Flavor Rankings: 4th of July Edition

Red, White, and Boba: Celebrating July 4th with Better Boba Rankings

July 4th is a time for fireworks, barbecues, and celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that represent the United States. This year, why not add a unique twist to your festivities with some delicious boba tea? As a reflection of the American melting pot, boba tea, with its Taiwanese origins and global popularity, is the perfect way to toast to diversity. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of boba with three festive, July 4th-themed recipes, and explore the top five boba flavors that have captured the hearts of America.

A Taste of Summer: The Top 5 Bubble Tea Rankings in the U.S.

Before we jump into our patriotic recipes, let’s take a moment to honor our bubble tea rankings.  Better Boba’s list of the top five boba flavors in the United States for your summer BBQ:

  1. Classic Milk Tea: This timeless favorite, with its smooth blend of black tea and creamy milk
  2. Taro Milk Tea: Known for its unique purple hue and sweet, nutty flavor
  3. Matcha Green Tea: This vibrant green drink offers a perfect balance of earthy matcha and creamy milk.
  4. Brown Sugar Milk Tea: With a rich, caramel-like flavor
  5. Thai Milk Tea: A flavorful fusion of strong black tea, spices, and condensed milk

Get Creative with Boba Recipes at Your 4th of July Party

For a twist on the traditional 4th of July celebrations, encourage your guests to get creative with their beverage creations. Set up a DIY boba bar with a variety of teas, syrups, fruits, and toppings. Provide an array of mix-ins such as jelly cubes and fresh fruit pieces. 

Red, White, and Blueberry Boba Tea

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Cook the boba pearls according to package instructions. Once done, rinse and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the blueberries burst and the mixture thickens. Strain to remove solids and let the syrup cool.
  3. Divide the blueberry syrup into two parts.
  4. In a glass, layer cooked boba pearls, red syrup, chilled tea, and milk. Add ice cubes and top with blue syrup for a stunning red, white, and blue beverage.

Strawberry Coconut Boba Delight

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Cook the boba pearls as per package instructions; rinse and set aside.
  2. In a blender, puree strawberries with sugar until smooth. Strain to remove seeds and set aside.
  3. In a glass, add a layer of boba pearls, followed by strawberry puree, green tea, and coconut milk.
  4. Add ice cubes and stir gently to create a refreshing red and white themed boba tea.

Patriotic Passion Fruit Boba Tea

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Cook the boba pearls following the package instructions; rinse and set aside.
  2. Mix passion fruit pulp with sugar until well combined. Set aside.
  3. In a glass, place a layer of boba pearls, then add the passion fruit mixture.
  4. Add ice cubes.
  5. Pour in chilled oolong tea and milk. 
  6. Stir and enjoy!

Share With Us on Social Media

If you try one of our recipes, tag @thebetterboba and use the hashtags #BetterBoba #AllNaturalBoba. We love our communiTEA and often gift free bags of boba. Get creative and have fun!

 

Foodie Friday: Cup & Cone and Better Boba On CBS Morning News

Better Boba in the news!

Bubble Tea continues to be all the craze and has made its way to the morning news! Our C0-Founder, Allison Sodha, talks about all things Cup & Cone, Better Boba, and the journey to create an  all-natural boba. Check out the tea kits featured on the show and get one delivered straight to your door.  They are the perfect starter kit and make a great gift – especially for your new grad!  Share the gift of boba with the ones you love.  Order direct and receive special seasonal tea samples from The Tao of Tea.

 

boba home kits. everything you need to make boba at home.

 

June Is National Mango Month

National Mango Month is a time dedicated to celebrating the vibrant and delicious mango. Known as the King of Fruits, mangoes are enjoyed for their juicy sweetness, stunning color, and incredible versatility. Whether blended into smoothies, tossed into salads, or featured in decadent desserts and savory dishes, mangoes add a unique flavor to any meal. 

Let’s explore the origins of this beloved fruit, its health benefits, and some fun ways to celebrate National Mango Month.

Origins and Varieties

Mangoes have been cultivated for over 4,000 years, originating in South Asia before spreading to other tropical regions worldwide. India is the largest producer of mangoes, from the creamy Alphonso to the fiberless Ataulfo.

In the United States, mangoes are primarily grown in Florida, California, and Hawaii. Varieties such as Tommy Atkins, Kent, and Haden are popular, each bringing its own flavor profile and sweetness to the table.

Health Benefits of Mangoes

Not only are mangoes delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients. Here are some of the key health benefits:

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Mangoes are a great source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune function, vision, and skin health. They also contain folate, vitamin E, and vitamin K.

High in Antioxidants: Mangoes contain several antioxidants, including mangiferin, which helps protect your body against oxidative stress and inflammation.

Digestive Health: The enzymes in mangoes, such as amylases, aid in breaking down carbohydrates, promoting better digestion. Their high fiber content also supports a healthy digestive system.

Boosts Immunity: The vitamin C in mangoes boosts the immune system, helping to ward off infections and illnesses.

Heart Health: Mangoes contain potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants that support heart health by helping to manage blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Mang

Mango-Inspired Boba Beverages

Here at better boba, we love mango so much that it’s one of our three NEW all-natural flavors launching this fall! 

Check out our other recipes for mango-inspired boba beverages:

Mango Lassi

Try this popular, traditional Indian beverage, perfect for cooling down after a spicy meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 cup mango pulp
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 3 tablespoons better boba all-natural classic pearls, prepared
  • Sprinkle of cardamom

Instructions:

  1. Blend the yogurt, mango pulp, milk, and sugar until smooth.
  2. Scoop the boba in a glass. Pour the blended beverage over the boba.
  3. Garnish with a sprinkle of cardamom. Serve chilled. 

Mango Coconut Boba Smoothie

For a tropical twist, try a mango coconut boba smoothie. It’s rich, creamy, and full of island vibes!

Instructions:

  1. Peel and chop the mango. Blend it with coconut milk, yogurt, and honey until smooth.
  2. In a glass, add the better boba all-natural pearls and ice cubes.
  3. Pour the mango coconut smoothie over the pearls and ice.
  4. Stir gently and enjoy the tropical goodness!

Spicy Mango Boba Refresher

For those who love a bit of a kick, the spicy mango boba refresher is an adventurous and exciting choice.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe mango
  • 1/2 cup of orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon of lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar or agave syrup
  • better boba all-natural classic pearls, prepared
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Peel and chop the mango. Blend it with orange juice, lime juice, chili powder, and sugar until smooth.
  2. In a glass, add the better boba all-natural pearls and ice cubes.
  3. Pour the spicy mango mixture over the pearls and ice.
  4. Stir gently and enjoy the sweet and spicy fusion!

Mango Green Tea Boba

This refreshing drink combines the health benefits of green tea with the sweet taste of mango.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe mango
  • 1 cup of green tea, brewed and chilled
  • 1/2 cup of coconut water
  • 1 tablespoon of honey
  • better boba all-natural classic pearls, prepared
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Peel and chop the mango. Blend it with green tea, coconut water, and honey until smooth.
  2. In a glass, add the better boba all-natural pearls and ice cubes.
  3. Pour the mango green tea mixture over the pearls and ice.
  4. Stir gently and enjoy the refreshing drink!

Our Mango Milk with classic pearls is also an easy and delicious recipe to make at home.

Cheers to the King of Fruits and the joy it brings to summer days!

Better Boba Wins a 2024 FedEx Small Business Grant

Better Boba Wins a 2024 FedEx Small Business Grant

We are thrilled to announce that Better Boba is a recipient of the 2024 FedEx Small Business Grants Program! Ten U.S.-based businesses were selected from 3900+ applications, and we are honored to be recognized for our innovation, passion, and social responsibility.

What is the FedEx Small Business Grant?

The FedEx Small Business Grants Program started in 2012 to award U.S.-based small businesses with grants and prizes. In addition to a $20k grant, recipients also receive a $500 print credit at FedEx Office, a $300 voucher from My FedEx Rewards, access to FedEx Premier Customer Care, a packaging consultation from the FedEx Packaging Lab, a digital and technology consultation from the FedEx Digital Sales Solutions team, an invite to attend a Small Business Strategic Insights Forum, and a feature on the FedEx Small Business Center.

In Good Company

We are excited to join this elite group of 2024 grant recipients:

Thank you to FedEx for championing and celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit!

A Guide to Navigating Graduation With Better Boba

Celebrating Graduation with Boba: A Guide to Gift Giving

Graduation season, means graduation party season is here.  As summer approaches, many find themselves grappling with a perennial question: How much should I gift a high school or college graduate? Additionally, in a world where unique celebrations are increasingly valued, incorporating boba into graduation festivities has become a popular choice. From boba gifts to setting up a boba bar, here’s your comprehensive guide to celebrating graduation with a touch of deliciousness.

How Much Should I Gift a High School or College Graduate?

Choosing the perfect gift for a graduate can be challenging. Whether they’re stepping into the professional world or continuing their academic journey, a thoughtful gift can make their transition memorable. When it comes to determining the appropriate amount to gift, consider factors such as your relationship with the graduate, your budget, and local customs.

  • Consider Your Relationship: The nature of your relationship with the graduate can influence the amount you choose to gift. Close family members or lifelong friends might opt for more substantial gifts compared to acquaintances or distant relatives.
  • Budget: It’s essential to set a budget that you’re comfortable with. Remember, the value of the gift isn’t solely measured by its price tag. A heartfelt gesture or personalized item can be just as meaningful, if not more so, than an expensive gift.
  • Local Customs: In some cultures or communities, there may be customary expectations regarding graduation gifts. It’s worth considering these traditions while deciding on an appropriate amount.
  • Practicality vs. Sentiment: Think about whether the graduate would appreciate a practical gift that aligns with their future endeavors or a sentimental keepsake that commemorates their achievements.

Ultimately, the most meaningful gifts are often those that reflect the graduate’s interests, aspirations, and personality.

The Graduation Party & Boba

Boba, also known as bubble tea, has surged in popularity worldwide with its unique combination of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. Incorporating boba into graduation celebrations adds a fun and flavorful twist to the festivities. Here’s how you can elevate your graduation party with boba:

  • Boba Gifts: Consider gifting the graduate with a boba-themed present, like Better Boba’s Premium Tea Kits. Each handcrafted, reusable wooden box includes one bag of all-natural classic pearls, a glass boba jar with bamboo lid and stainless steel straw, three premium teas from The Tao of Tea, and recipe cards. ($49.99)
  • Boba Bar: Create a boba bar at the graduation party, allowing guests to customize their own bubble tea creations. Set up stations with various tea bases, milk options, flavored syrups, and toppings such as tapioca pearls, fruit jellies, or boba bubbles. Provide recipe cards or guidance to help guests craft their perfect boba drink.
  • Boba Treats: In addition to traditional boba beverages, consider incorporating boba into other treats and desserts. Serve boba-infused cupcakes, cakes, or ice cream sundaes for a deliciously unique twist.

By infusing your graduation celebrations with boba, you’re not only treating guests to a delightful culinary experience but also adding a touch of trendy sophistication to the festivities. From boba-themed gifts to creating a DIY boba bar, there are countless ways to incorporate this beloved beverage into your graduation party planning.

In summary, the amount you choose to gift a high school or college graduate should reflect your relationship, budget, and cultural norms. When it comes to celebrating graduation, incorporating boba into the festivities offers a fun and flavorful way to mark this significant milestone. Whether you’re sipping on customized bubble teas at a boba bar or surprising the graduate with a boba-themed gift, embracing the boba craze adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the celebration. Cheers to the graduates and their bright futures ahead!

The Seattle Boba Fest

Seattle Boba Fest at The University District

Better Boba was thrilled to partner with Konbit Cafe at the 2024 Seattle Boba Fest! Organized by the U District Partnership, the event celebrates Seattle’s boba culture and the city’s highest concentration of bubble tea shops. 28 businesses offered an exciting menu of bubble tea inspired sips and snacks, including a Boba Lava Cake and self-serve boba.

Located in the heart of the U District, Konbit Cafe serves Seattle’s best Haitian specialty coffee. They boast a well-crafted Haitian-inspired menu with coffee sourced directly from farmers in the northern hills of Dondon, Haiti. Their profits enrich the lives of young entrepreneurs in Port-au-Prince. 

Konbit Cafe is an initiative of Kay Tita, a community resource organization dedicated to empowering Haitian entrepreneurs and small business owners through technical skills training and by cultivating critical partnerships and impact investing opportunities. Kay Tita is rooted in work between Haiti and Seattle.

What is served at boba fest?

For the Seattle Boba Fest, Konbit put a bobalicious spin on their signature Pacot Latte. With star anise, cinnamon, and ginger, the beverage was enjoyed with Earl Grey Black Tea and enhanced with shots of Haitian espresso and Better Boba’s all-natural classic pearls. Coined: Ti Boba Pam ‘My Little Boba’ This drink is a soothing blend of star anise, cinnamon, ginger, our house espresso and your choice of milk) Pacot is the neighborhood where Kay Tita is located in Haiti