Pearl Tea, Boba Tea, Bubble Tea

 

All these names refer to what we most commonly call Bubble Tea in France (yes, another anglicism). At MyBubbleTea.eu, you’re also welcome to call it pearl tea – we’re not picky. Since “Boba Tea” in slang refers to a woman with a generous chest, we’ll skip that one around young or sensitive audiences.

Whichever name you choose, all three designate a tea-based drink into which tapioca pearls (originally) or fruit pearls are added. These pearls look like bubbles or beads inside the glass, hence the reference to “Bubble”. They are enjoyed with a wide straw that allows the fruit or tapioca pearls to pass through.

 

Taiwan, the birthplace of Bubble Tea

 

Taiwan, this small group of islands in East Asia, is famous for its leadership in high technology but not only that. Cosmopolitan and full of colour, Taiwanese culture is vibrant and expressive – and it travels well. Bubble Tea, a playful and colourful drink, is a perfect ambassador of a modern, diverse and distinctly fun Taiwanese culture.

The origin of Bubble Tea is difficult to pinpoint, as two tea shops both claim to have invented it. At MyBubbleTea.eu, we’ll refrain from deciding between them. What we do know is that it was born in the 1980s, when tea shops in Taiwan began offering tea with tapioca pearls. It quickly became popular, to the point where Bubble Tea is sometimes considered Taiwan’s national drink.

 

From the traditional recipe to a drink with endless flavours

 

From its beginnings in Taiwanese tea shops to the modern Bubble Tea bars popping up worldwide, the recipe has evolved. Fruit pearls made with juice have replaced traditional tapioca balls in some recipes. Flavoured powders (taro, banana, chai…) or other “creamers” have joined the mix to give the drink stronger flavours or a creamier texture – sometimes overshadowing the main ingredient: tea.

As you can see, Bubble Tea is a drink that keeps reinventing itself. That’s what makes it so charming and what has undeniably won us over at MyBubbleTea.eu. Green tea or black tea, plain or flavoured, fruit pearls or tapioca, plant-based milk or flavoured powder, honey or syrup… Only one rule: enjoy yourself. Have fun!