Classic Milk Tea Recipe with Better Boba
Boba, or bubble tea, has taken the world by storm in recent years. With its sweet, chewy tapioca pearls and a variety of flavored teas, it has become a beloved beverage for many. But do you know where this delightful drink comes from and how it has evolved into the countless variations we see today? In this blog, we’ll take a journey through the history of boba and classic milk tea, and I’ll even share an easy recipe for you to try at home.
The Birth of Boba: A Taiwanese Tale
Boba, or bubble tea, finds its roots in Taiwan. The origins of this sweet and refreshing drink can be traced back to the 1980s, in the bustling night markets of Taipei. It all began when street food vendors started adding sweet tapioca balls, known as “boba” or “pearls,” to their tea concoctions. The pearls, made from cassava root, lend a unique chewy texture to the drink.
The term “bubble tea” is believed to have originated from the frothy bubbles created during the shaking process, which blends the tea, milk, and syrup. It was a fresh and innovative twist on traditional tea-drinking, and the love for boba began to spread throughout Taiwan.
Classic Milk Tea, An Evolution
Classic milk tea, often called “black tea” in Taiwan, is the foundation of many boba drinks. The tea is typically brewed from strong black tea leaves and then combined with milk and sweeteners to create a rich and creamy base. The addition of condensed milk or evaporated milk also enhanced the flavor.
In the early days of boba, classic milk tea was served without tapioca pearls, and it was enjoyed on its own. As the trend gained popularity, the addition of pearls became more common, turning it into the iconic bubble tea we know today.
The Worldwide Spread of Boba
In the 1990s, boba began to travel beyond Taiwan’s borders. Its popularity grew throughout Asia, eventually hopping continents to North America, Europe, and beyond. In these new locations, boba continued to evolve, and a wide range of flavors, toppings, and variations emerged. Today, you can find boba shops offering everything from fruit-flavored teas to matcha lattes, and even blended ice drinks.
Making Boba at Home: A Simple Recipe
Classic Milk Tea Boba
Ingredients
- 1 cup black tea strongly brewed and cooled
- 1/2 cup milk whole dairy or an alternative
- 2-3 tbsp sweetener sugar, honey, or agave syrup
- 1/2 cup better boba classic pearls
- ice cubes
Instructions
- Brew the black tea and let it cool. You can use tea bags or loose-leaf tea, depending on your preference. Feel free to adjust the strength of the tea to suit your taste.
- Cook the better boba classic pearls according to the package instructions. Soak in a sweetener and let cool.
- In a separate container, mix the milk and sweetener until the sweetener is fully dissolved. Adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the cooled black tea over the ice, leaving some room at the top.
- Slowly pour the milk and sweetener mixture over the tea. Stir gently to combine.
- Add the cooked tapioca pearls to the glass.
- Insert a wide straw (preferably a boba straw) into the glass, give it a quick stir, and enjoy your homemade classic milk tea with boba!
Whether you’re a boba aficionado or new to this delicious beverage, making your own classic milk tea with boba at home is a delightful way to explore the flavors and origins of this beloved Taiwanese drink. It’s a testament to the global appeal of boba and how it has transformed from a simple street food into a worldwide sensation.
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 give away free bags of boba. Get creative and have fun!