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Bubble tea is a popular Taiwanese beverage that has gained worldwide popularity. This delightful drink combines the flavors of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls, creating a unique and refreshing experience. In this recipe, we’ll take bubble tea to the next level by adding a luxurious cold foam topping, which adds a creamy and velvety texture to each sip. Get ready to embark on a taste adventure with this homemade bubble tea with cold foam recipe that will satisfy your cravings and keep you cool during any season.
Bubble tea, also known as boba tea or pearl milk tea, is a popular Taiwanese drink that has gained worldwide recognition for its unique combination of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. The origins of bubble tea date back to Taiwan in the 1980s when a teahouse owner named Lin Hsiu Hui decided to shake up her traditional iced tea by adding fruit flavors and tapioca pearls. The result was a sensation, and soon after, bubble tea shops began popping up across Taiwan.
The “bubble” in bubble tea originally referred to the frothy bubbles created by vigorously shaking the tea before serving. Today, it more commonly refers to the chewy tapioca pearls found at the bottom of the drink. From Taiwan, bubble tea spread to other parts of Asia and eventually to the rest of the world, becoming a beloved beverage with a wide variety of flavors and toppings.
Bubble Tea with Cold Foam
This bubble tea with cold foam recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a creamy and indulgent beverage at home. The combination of the traditional bubble tea elements, such as the tea base, milk, and tapioca pearls, along with the added cold foam topping, creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The result is a refreshing drink that will delight your taste buds and elevate your bubble tea experience.
Tools and Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Bubble tea straws
- Blender or handheld frother
- Cocktail shaker (optional)
- Tall glasses or mason jars
Ingredients
For the bubble tea:
For the cold foam:
Instructions
Prepare the tea base:
- In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
- Add the black tea leaves or tea bags and let steep for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea using a fine-mesh strainer and discard the tea leaves or remove the tea bags.
Sweeten the tea:
- Return the strained tea to the saucepan and place it over medium heat.
- Add the granulated sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Remove from heat and let the tea cool to room temperature.
Cook the tapioca pearls:
- Follow the package instructions to cook the tapioca pearls until they are soft and chewy.
- Once cooked, drain the tapioca pearls and rinse them with cold water.
Prepare the cold foam:
- In a blender or using a handheld frother, combine the milk and sweetener.
- Blend or froth until the mixture becomes frothy and forms a creamy foam.
Assemble the bubble tea:
- In a cocktail shaker or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the cooled tea, milk, and a handful of ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for a minute to mix the ingredients and chill the drink.
Add the tapioca pearls:
- Divide the cooked tapioca pearls among tall glasses or mason jars.
- Pour the chilled bubble tea mixture over the tapioca pearls, leaving some room for the cold foam topping.
Top with cold foam:
- Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully layer the cold foam on top of the bubble tea.
- Sprinkle some extra tapioca pearls or a drizzle of sweetener for garnish, if desired.
Insert a bubble tea straw:
- Place a bubble tea straw into each glass, allowing the straw to reach the bottom where the tapioca pearls are.
Serve and enjoy:
- Serve the bubble tea with cold foam immediately and gently stir before sipping to incorporate the flavors.
- Savor the creamy and refreshing combination of the tea, milk, tapioca pearls, and cold foam.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 3
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 326.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 2.62g5%
- Saturated Fat 1.52g8%
- Cholesterol 9.79mg4%
- Sodium 31.76mg2%
- Potassium 128.44mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 73.5g25%
- Dietary Fiber 0.45g2%
- Sugars 30.55g
- Protein 2.77g6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- Experiment with different tea flavors such as green tea, oolong tea, or fruit-infused teas to create unique bubble tea variations.
- Customize the sweetness level by adjusting the amount of sugar or sweetener to suit your taste preferences.
- Add a splash of flavored syrups such as vanilla, caramel, or fruit syrups for extra depth of flavor.
- If you don't have a cocktail shaker, you can use a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid to shake the bubble tea mixture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy the bubble tea with cold foam as a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up or as a delightful dessert-like treat.
- Pair it with your favorite snacks or desserts, such as mochi, macarons, or Asian pastries.
- Serve it at parties, gatherings, or as a special treat for bubble tea enthusiasts.
Allergen Information:
Bubble tea can contain a range of ingredients, some of which may pose allergen concerns:
- Dairy: Many bubble tea recipes include dairy in the form of milk or cream. If you are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy, you can opt for dairy-free alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk.
- Tapioca Pearls: The tapioca pearls used in bubble tea are made from cassava root. While they are usually gluten-free, it's essential to check if there are any cross-contamination risks if you have a gluten sensitivity or allergy.
- Nuts: Some bubble tea shops offer nut-flavored syrups or toppings like almond jelly. If you have nut allergies, inquire about potential cross-contamination or opt for nut-free choices.
- Fruit Allergies: If you have fruit allergies, be cautious when selecting fruit-flavored bubble teas, as they often contain real fruit or fruit purees.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
Bubble tea is typically enjoyed on its own as a refreshing and sweet beverage. However, if you'd like to experiment with pairings, consider these options:
- Light Snacks: Bubble tea pairs well with light snacks like popcorn, chips, or fruit slices. The sweetness of the tea can complement savory or slightly salty flavors.
- Asian Cuisine: If you're having a meal, especially Asian dishes, bubble tea can be a delightful accompaniment. It pairs nicely with sushi, dumplings, or noodle dishes.
Storage and Leftovers:
Bubble tea is best enjoyed fresh, but if you find yourself with leftovers:
- Tapioca Pearls: Leftover cooked tapioca pearls can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for a day or two. To reheat them, briefly microwave with a bit of water to soften.
- Tea Base: If you have leftover brewed tea or tea concentrate, store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Be sure to seal it tightly to prevent the tea from absorbing other odors.
- Milk or Creamer: Dairy or non-dairy milk or creamer should also be refrigerated if not used immediately.
- Shaking Before Consumption: When you're ready to enjoy your leftover bubble tea, give it a good shake to mix the ingredients, especially if it has been sitting for a while.
