1. Boba tea, also known as bubble tea, originated in Taiwan in the 1980s.
2. The name "boba" refers to the chewy tapioca pearls found at the bottom of the drink.
3. The drink is typically made with black or green tea, but there are various flavours and types available.
4. The first boba tea was a simple combination of black tea, milk, and tapioca pearls.
5. The popularity of boba tea spread rapidly across Asia and eventually worldwide.
6. The chewy tapioca pearls used in boba tea are made from cassava root starch.
7. In some places, the tapioca pearls are replaced with other ingredients like fruit jelly or popping boba.
8. Boba tea can be served hot or cold, and cold versions are usually blended with ice.
9. Tapioca pearls are cooked in hot water before being added to the tea, giving them their unique texture.
10. The larger straws used for drinking boba tea are designed to allow the pearls to pass through.
11. Some variations of boba tea contain toppings like whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh fruit.
12. There are numerous flavour options, including classic milk tea, fruit tea, and unique combinations like taro or matcha.
13. Boba tea has become so popular that it has its own dedicated festivals and events in some regions.
14. The drink's popularity has led to the creation of boba-themed merchandise and clothing.
15. In Taiwan, it is common to see boba tea shops on almost every street corner.
16. The largest boba tea cup ever made was 8.2 feet tall and held over 3,000 litres of the drink.
17. The boba tea industry has inspired various online challenges and viral trends.
18. The first boba tea recipe was created by mixing sweetened condensed milk with black tea.
19. Some boba teas use fresh fruit and natural flavours, while others rely on syrups and artificial additives.
20. Boba tea enthusiasts often enjoy customising their drinks with different levels of sweetness and ice.
