What is tapioca?

Culinary trends come and go, but one that is here to stay is bubble tea, also known as boba or bubble tea. This drink has caused a stir among consumers, as it is not only delicious but has also become a cultural phenomenon worthy of Instagram posts. Have you tried tea with tapioca pearls? Although the most popular recipes with tapioca pearls are those for drinks, this ingredient can also be used in different desserts. To help you learn how to use it in your kitchen, we’ll tell you what tapioca is and how it is used. Get ready to cook with it! You can also read: Hibiscus Bubble Tea with CoconutTapioca: What is it?Tapioca is a starch obtained from cassava or manioc. The root undergoes a complete 5-step process to obtain the pearls we can find on the shelves today.  There are two types of tapioca on the market: white pearls and black pearls. On one hand, white tapioca is usually smaller, becomes transparent when cooked, and can be used to prepare desserts like puddings.  In the case of black tapioca pearls, these are the most commonly used in places that sell bubble tea. They are often kept in syrup and tend to be larger than white pearls.  Additionally, due to their neutral flavor and gluten-free nature, they are increasingly consumed. Another interesting fact about tapioca pearls is that their production began in South America before reaching various Asian countries. Once they arrived in Taiwan, they inspired the creation of the famous boba.  Moreover, we should not forget that tapioca also has health benefits, as it contains calcium, iron, potassium, zinc, and vitamins B and C.  See more: Tapioca Pudding with CaramelHow to Cook Tapioca?Cooking tapioca depends on the type of pearl you are going to use.  To cook black tapioca pearls, follow the method recommended by experts: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the tapioca pearls and cook over medium heat for 20 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it sit for 20 minutes. Drain the tapioca using a strainer and rinse with cold water. Mix the tapioca pearls with a simple syrup and use to prepare bubble tea.  For white tapioca pearls, they are cooked as follows: Heat water in a large pot and wait for it to boil. Add the tapioca pearls and cook over medium heat for 20 minutes or until they become transparent. Strain and rinse under running water. Set aside. Now that you know how to cook tapioca, dare to prepare these 3 tapioca recipes that Kiwilimon has for you. Which one do you feel like trying the most? You might be interested in: 10 Gluten-Free Breakfast RecipesTapioca RecipesWhether you want to start a bubble tea business or simply enjoy these treats at home, these 3 recipes are a must-try, so give them a go and let us know how they turned out! Taro Bubble Tea This is one of the most popular boba flavors worldwide! It is sweet and subtle, so it is sure to delight both kids and adults. Follow this step-by-step recipe for bubble tea with taro and it will be ready in just 35 minutes.  Marzipan Bubble Tea This other tapioca drink is a bit more elaborate, as it prepares a marzipan frappe and then adds the tapioca pearls. It is perfect for that sweet craving or to start your business. Are you up for making it? Coconut and Mango Tapioca Dessert This tapioca pudding is prepared with coconut water, condensed milk, whipping cream, vanilla, and mango cubes—it's simply irresistible! The best part is that you can substitute the mango for any seasonal fruit, and it will be just as delicious!  Now that you know more about tapioca, how to cook it, and you have 3 recipes, lose the fear of cooking and trying new things. Let us know if you dare to try tapioca!