# What You’ll Need:
→ Tapioca pearls
01 - 1/2 cup tapioca starch, plus additional starch for dusting
02 - 1/4 cup brown sugar
03 - 1/4 cup water
→ Brown sugar syrup
04 - 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
05 - 1/2 cup water
→ Milk tea
06 - 2 black tea bags or 2 tablespoons loose black tea
07 - 1 cup hot water
08 - 1 cup whole milk (substitute oat milk for dairy-free)
09 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional; adjust to taste)
10 - Ice cubes as needed
# Method:
01 - Combine 1/4 cup brown sugar and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons tapioca starch until smooth.
02 - Return the pan to low heat and stir the mixture until it thickens slightly. Transfer to a mixing bowl, add the remaining tapioca starch, and knead until a smooth, pliable dough forms. Dust surface with additional starch to prevent sticking.
03 - Divide the dough and roll into pea-sized spheres, dusting with tapioca starch to keep them separate.
04 - Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, add the pearls, and boil gently for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, cover, and let rest for 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and remove excess starch.
05 - In a separate saucepan, combine 1/2 cup dark brown sugar and 1/2 cup water. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
06 - Add the cooked pearls to the warm syrup and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes to coat and infuse. Keep the pearls warm in the syrup until assembly.
07 - Steep the tea bags in 1 cup hot water for 5 to 7 minutes for a robust infusion. Remove the tea bags (or strain loose tea) and allow the brew to cool slightly.
08 - Stir in 2 tablespoons brown sugar if using, then add 1 cup milk and mix until combined. Chill briefly if a colder beverage is preferred.
09 - Divide the brown sugar pearls and their syrup between two glasses. Swirl additional syrup up the inside of each glass for a marbled appearance, add ice, then pour in the milk tea. Stir gently and serve with wide straws.
