Taro Milk Tea

Instructions

1. Cook the tapioca pearls
   Bring 1 cup of water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Add the dried tapioca pearls and boil for 5-7 minutes until they float and become soft (but still slightly chewy in the center). Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 5 more minutes.
2. Prepare the sugar syrup
   Drain the cooked tapioca pearls and rinse under cold water. Transfer to a small bowl and add honey or simple syrup. Let them soak in the syrup for at least 5 minutes to sweeten and prevent sticking.
3. Brew the tea
   Bring the remaining cup of water to a boil. Remove from heat and add tea bags. Steep for 5 minutes, then remove tea bags and let cool to room temperature.
4. Mix the taro base
   In a blender, combine the taro powder (or mashed taro), sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and vanilla extract (if using). Add 1/2 cup of the brewed tea and blend until smooth and no lumps remain.
5. Assemble the milk tea
   Divide the cooked tapioca pearls between two large glasses. Add ice cubes to each glass. Pour the taro mixture evenly between the glasses, then add the remaining brewed tea and milk. Stir gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately
   Insert wide bubble tea straws into each glass. The taro milk tea is best enjoyed immediately while the tapioca pearls are still soft and chewy. Gently stir before drinking to ensure flavors are well mixed.