Bubble tea has become hugely successful here in the United States, especially in areas with a large Asian population. It originated in Taiwan originally and has made its way all over the world. Tapioca has always been popular in desserts in that region. Adding that tapioca to tea and ultimately a slew of other types of drinks has formed the wildly popular and delicious Bubble tea.

The tapioca pearls or balls, also known as boba, come from the cassava root. They are balls that are about one-quarter of an inch. The texture is like gummy bears! As they are too big to fit through standard straws, there are special large straws given with them. Honestly, the tapioca makes it really fun to drink.

Not all bubble tea drinks are lattes. Here in the Seattle area, there are a whole lot of bubble tea places and there is every flavor under the sun, including ambrosia, coconut, taro, lychee and so much more. Bubble tea lattes will vary but you can get chocolate lattes or ones made with green or black tea.  Matcha green tea lattes are a popular option. Bubble tea comes in hot or cold, shake or even with shaved ice. Each establishment varies.

I love bubble tea. It’s an occasional treat that is fun to drink and so very tasty. Bubble tea lattes are fantastic when I need a bit of a caffeine boost along with it! It’s a bummer that it isn’t commonplace in every area but be sure to try one when you get the opportunity.