The chewy spheres found at the bottom of boba tea, also known as bubble tea or pearl milk tea, are typically tapioca pearls. These small, translucent balls are made from tapioca starch, a product extracted from the cassava root. They contribute significantly to the drink’s unique texture and appeal, offering a pleasant contrast to the liquid tea base.
Their presence is crucial to the beverage’s identity, providing a textural element that distinguishes it from other tea-based drinks. The popularity of this beverage is largely attributed to this unique component, resulting in widespread consumption and adaptation of the recipe globally. Historically, their inclusion represents a deliberate effort to enhance the drinking experience, transforming a simple beverage into a more complex and enjoyable treat.
