​​What is Boba? Explaining Your Neighborhood Boba Shop

Are you a fan of boba? If you are, then you're in good company. Boba is one of the most popular drinks out there. But many people don't know what the chewy bubbles at the bottom of their drinks' are. Let alone what the entire drink itself is! Have no fear; we're here to help.

What is Boba?

Boba, also known as tapioca pearls, are root vegetables from South America made of cassava starch. Boba tea is a popular drink that originated in Taiwan and consisted of brewed tea with chewy tapioca balls added inside. The term boba can reference the entire drink concoction or just the pearls themselves.

What is Boba Used in?

At its base, boba or bubble tea is typically black or green tea. However, this can be enhanced with syrups like peach, strawberry, and lychee. Adding milk to the teas creates an entirely new beverage category - milk tea - which is generally more flavorful and creamy than regular tea. The classic "boba milk tea" order usually consists of black tea with boba pearls, milk, and the classic boba straw.

While the most popular teas are green or black, some boba places get creative with their bases. Taro milk tea uses the tropical taro root, while fruit teas usually mix fresh fruit slices right in. Another common menu choice is bright orange Thai tea. And if you're looking for coffee, don't worry! You can also get your fix with coffee and milk tea. Other options include matcha, white teas, and oolong.

Most boba shops offer not only tea but slushies and milk drinks as well. Slushies are typically a blend of tea, syrup, and ice, while milk drinks use... you guessed it... milk! Honey or brown sugar is usually added to give it some extra sweetness.

What Does Boba Taste Like?

Boba pearls should always be soft, with a slight chew to them—not so mushy that they melt in your mouth. The pearls' flavor comes from the syrup they're cooked in and any extra sweeteners added to the mixture. Milk tea most boba comes in is also available in different flavors, like honeydew, chai, matcha, or strawberry.