It’s no secret that bubble (or boba) tea has become increasingly popular over the past few years. With its wide range of interesting flavors and unique toppings, it’s easy to see why so many people love this tasty treat. One aspect that makes boba tea stand out is its signature “balls” – but what are the balls in boba tea? In this post, we will explore all things related to boba balls – from the varieties available and how they’re made, to their nutritional value and even a few fun recipes for making them at home.
What Is Boba Tea?
Boba tea, also known as bubble tea or pearls milk tea, is a Taiwanese specialty drink made with freshly brewed tea, milk (or non-dairy alternatives), and chewy tapioca pearls. The tapioca balls add texture to the beverage, making it both unique and delicious. The size of the boba pearls can range from small to large, and they come in a variety of colors. The tea base is usually green or black tea, but many boba drinks also feature herbal teas like oolong, chai, jasmine and more.

What is Boba Tea Made Of?
Boba Tea is typically made with a combination of tea, milk (which can be with non-dairy alternatives, such as almond or coconut milk), and chewy tapioca pearls. The tea base is usually brewed using either black, green, or oolong tea leaves. Depending on the recipe, sweeteners like honey, brown sugar, simple syrup, or agave nectar may also be added. Toppings like fresh fruit, jelly chunks, and puddings also be included to add a more interesting flavor. Boba Tea can in both hot and cold varieties so it’s great for seasons.
If you are wondering what are the balls in boba tea. Read the article right away to know the detailed answer right in the article.
What Are The Balls In Boba Tea?
The balls in boba tea are tapioca pearls – also sometimes referred to as “boba” or “bubbles”. These chewy, flavorful pearls are made from cassava root, and they add texture and sweetness to the drink. Boba pearls come in a variety of sizes and colors, and can be flavored with syrup or honey, as well as other flavorings like melon or chocolate. They provide a unique sensory experience that has become an integral part of the boba tea experience.
What Types Of Balls In Boba Tea Are There?
There are many types of boba pearls, with various sizes and flavors. The most common are black tapioca pearls (also known as “pearl tea”), which have a slightly sweet flavor and chewy texture. Other varieties include rainbow-colored pearl tea, green tea-flavored pearls, and even jelly-filled pearls (also known as “popping boba”). All of these types of balls add a unique texture and flavor to the drink.
What Does Balls In Boba Tea Taste Like?
Boba pearls have a sweet and chewy texture, and they can be flavored with syrups or honey to add sweetness. Depending on the type of boba tea you’re drinking, the pearls may also have different flavors added (such as melon, chocolate, etc.). The combination of sugary syrup and chewy pearls creates an interesting and satisfying sensory experience.
What Is The Texture Of Balls In Boba Tea?
The texture of boba balls is chewy and slightly gummy, with a slight bounce to them. They’re often compared to gummy bears or other candies for their texture – although they’re much sweeter and softer than a typical gummy candy. The tapioca pearls also have an interesting “pop” when you bite into them, making it a unique and enjoyable experience.
How Many Boba Balls Are In A Tea?
The amount of boba balls in a tea will depend on the size and type of tea you order. Generally, a single cup of bubble tea is made with approximately 20-30 small tapioca pearls or 2-3 tablespoons of large Boba pearls. Some cafes also offer extra add-ons for an additional fee if customers would like to top off their bubble tea with more Boba pearls. If you’re looking for an extra sweet treat, try adding some of your favorite jellies or popping boba too.

How To Make Balls In Boba Tea?
Making balls in Boba tea is a fun and easy way to get creative with your favorite beverage. You will need tapioca pearls, brown sugar, water and baking soda or baking powder.
Begin by bringing the tapioca pearls and enough water to cover them to a boil in a pot. Add some brown sugar to the boiling water and stir until all of the sugar has dissolved. Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes stirring occasionally.
Once the pearls have become soft, remove them from the heat and strain out any excess water. Place the strained pearls in a bowl, or stand mixer, with some cold water and mix on low speed for a few minutes.
Once the pearls are mixed, add in some baking soda or baking powder and mix on low speed for about two minutes until you have a thick paste-like texture. Take small pieces of the paste and roll them into balls, making sure to keep your hands wet so that the dough doesn’t stick to them.
Gently place the balls in a pot with enough water to cover and bring to a simmer over medium low heat.mer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, then off the excess water and set.
Tips Making Balls In Boba Tea
- Be sure to use cold water when mixing the dough, otherwise it will become too sticky and difficult to work with.
- If you find that your boba balls are sticking together after simmering in the pot, add some oil to prevent them from clumping.
- You can experiment with different flavors by adding syrups, fruit juice or other spices to the dough before forming your boba balls.
- Boba pearls can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to a month.
Making boba tea with homemade boba balls is a fun way to customize your favorite beverage and add a unique twist to it. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create your own delicious and chewy boba balls that will give any tea-based drink an extra burst of flavor.

How To Preserve Balls In Boba Tea?
Preserving boba balls in your bubble tea is a great way to make sure they stay fresh and flavorful. The best way to preserve them is by storing them in an airtight container or bag with some sugar syrup added to help keep the pearls moist. Be sure to refrigerate them if they will not be used within 24 hours, as refrigeration can help extend the shelf life of boba balls.
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FAQ: The Balls In Boba Tea
What are the balls made of in boba tea?
Discover tapioca pearls, the delectable and translucent spheres made from cassava root starch. Once created as a budget-friendly alternative to sago in Southeast Asian cooking, they are now popularly known as pearls or boba when used in bubble tea. Enjoy a unique taste sensation that is both satisfying and refreshing!
Are there different types of balls used in boba tea?
Discover the diverse world of tapioca pearls, including black, flavored, popping, mini, and clear variations. These chewy delights are typically soaked in a delightful sugar syrup for sweetness. Often used in tea, they add a unique texture without overpowering the flavor of your favorite beverage.
What are the most common types of balls used in boba tea?
The most common type of balls used in boba tea are tapioca pearls, also known as boba or bubble tea pearls. These tapioca pearls are made from cassava root and are boiled in water before they are added to the tea. They add a chewy texture to the drink and can be flavored with a variety of syrups or sugars.
What is the origin of the balls in boba tea?
Discover the fascinating origin of bubble tea’s iconic tapioca pearls. These chewy delights were crafted from the starchy roots of cassava, a tropical shrub brought to Taiwan from South America during Japanese colonial rule.
How do the balls get their color in boba tea?
Discover Boba, the popular South American beverage ingredient made from cassava root starch. Also known as “tapioca pearls” or “tapioca balls,” Boba comes in various colors including the classic white, transparent, green, and even dark hues achieved by adding sweet brown sugar.
Are the balls in boba tea healthy to consume?
Enjoy your bubble tea responsibly, as consuming excessive amounts of the sweetened beverage may lead to constipation and increase the risk of diet-related illnesses. Though the tapioca pearls used in bubble tea are considered safe, moderation is key for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Can you find boba tea without the balls?
You can find boba tea without the balls. Most boba tea shops will offer a variety of drinks with and without tapioca pearls. Some may even serve fruit-based smoothies or other types of beverages that do not contain any tapioca pearls at all.
What does the white ball in boba tea taste like?
Discover the secret of bubble tea’s tapioca pearls originating from South American cassava root. First, the root is converted into tapioca starch, then into the tasteless pearls by boiling them for an hour. To add a flavorful twist, soak them in brown sugar syrup before incorporating them into your bubble tea.
Are balls in boba tea digestible?
Bubble tea pearls are gentle on the stomach and easily digestible for a majority of individuals.
Can i swallow balls in boba tea without chewing?
Experience the unique texture of bubble tea with completely safe and edible pearls. Don’t forget to chew them for the full flavor.
Conclusion: What Are The Balls In Boba Tea
Boba balls are a delicious and chewy addition to bubble teas, adding an interesting texture and flavor to any drink. Understanding the texture of boba balls, how many should be added per tea, how to make them at home and how to preserve them can help you create the perfect boba tea experience. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy a delicious cup of boba tea with fresh, homemade boba balls.

Nia Grace is the owner and head chef of The Underground, a new quick-service restaurant in Memphis. After surveying the area’s dining landscape and speaking with local residents, she determined that there was a lack of restaurants offering international cuisine. Drawing on her own multicultural background (her parents are from Guyana and Jamaica), Nia has created a menu that features dishes from all over the world. Her goal is to provide Memphians with a variety of flavorful options that reflect the city’s diverse population.