Introduction:
Black Milk Tea, also known as “Hong Kong Milk Tea” or “Bubble Tea,” is a popular and refreshing beverage enjoyed worldwide. It combines the robust flavor of black tea with the creaminess of milk, making it a delightful treat. Here’s how to make Black Milk Tea at home.
Ingredients:
For the Black Tea Base:
- 2 black tea bags (such as Assam or Ceylon)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 2-3 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
For Assembling the Drink:
- 1/2 cup cooked tapioca pearls (boba)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar syrup (for tapioca pearls)
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 1/2 cup whole milk or non-dairy milk of your choice
- Additional sugar or sweetened condensed milk (optional, for added sweetness)
- Wide straw for sipping
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Black Tea Base:
- Place the black tea bags in a heatproof container.
- Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the tea bags.
- Let the tea steep for 3-5 minutes or until it reaches your desired strength.
- Remove the tea bags and discard them.
- Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of granulated sugar into the hot tea, adjusting the sweetness to your preference.
- Allow the sweetened tea to cool to room temperature.
2. Cook Tapioca Pearls (Boba):
- Follow the package instructions to cook tapioca pearls until they are soft and chewy.
- Once cooked, drain the tapioca pearls and rinse them with cold water.
- Toss the cooked tapioca pearls in brown sugar syrup to add sweetness and flavor.
3. Assemble the Black Milk Tea:
- Fill a glass with 1 cup of ice cubes.
- Pour the cooled sweetened black tea over the ice, leaving some space at the top of the glass.
4. Add Milk:
- Gently pour 1/2 cup of whole milk or your preferred non-dairy milk into the glass, allowing it to combine with the black tea.
5. Sweeten to Taste:
- If desired, add additional sugar or sweetened condensed milk to adjust the sweetness according to your liking. Stir well.
6. Add Tapioca Pearls:
- Using a wide straw, pierce the tapioca pearls and place them in the glass with the Black Milk Tea.
7. Serve:
- Give the drink a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
- Insert a wide straw into the glass to sip the Black Milk Tea and enjoy!
Conclusion: Black Milk Tea, with its harmonious blend of black tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls, is a delightful and refreshing beverage. You can customize the sweetness level to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a classic Hong Kong Milk Tea or with a twist, it’s a popular choice for tea enthusiasts and bubble tea lovers alike. Enjoy your homemade Black Milk Tea!