Taro Milk Tea 2 Ways (with Fresh Taro or Powder) Recipe
This Taro Milk Tea recipe offers two delightful variations: one with fresh taro paste and another using taro powder. Both versions feature chewy homemade tapioca pearls infused with brown sugar syrup, blended with creamy condensed milk, plant-based milk, and optionally green tea for a perfect balance of sweet and earthy flavors. Whether you prefer the fresh taro’s natural texture or the convenience of powder, this refreshing, colorful milk tea is a treat perfect for any time of day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Tapioca Pearls and Syrup
- 2/3 cup dried tapioca pearls
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- Ice cubes, as needed
Fresh Taro Milk Tea
- 1/2 cup taro paste
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk (use condensed coconut milk for vegan option)
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 green tea bag (optional)
- 2 tablespoons purple sweet potato powder (optional, for purple color)
- 1/2 cup ready-to-use tapioca pearls (soaked in syrup)
Powdered Taro Milk Tea
- 1 green tea bag
- 2 tablespoons taro powder
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1/2 cup ready-to-use tapioca pearls (soaked in syrup)
- Ice cubes, as needed
Instructions
- Prepare the boba: Cook the dried tapioca pearls by dropping them into boiling water and cooking for 20-30 minutes as per package directions. Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for another 30 minutes. Depending on the brand, you may need to repeat this cook-and-rest cycle once more to achieve the best texture. Instant tapioca pearls can be used for faster preparation.
- Make the brown sugar syrup: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar and water and heat until the sugar is fully dissolved. Avoid simmering. Drain cooked tapioca pearls and soak them in this syrup for at least 1 hour to infuse sweetness and prevent sticking.
- Brew the tea (optional): For both fresh and powdered taro versions, steep the green tea bag in 1/2 cup of hot water for 5 minutes, then remove the tea bag and set aside. Let the tea cool if using in the powdered taro milk tea.
- Blend fresh taro milk tea: In a blender, combine taro paste, sweetened condensed milk, plant-based milk, brewed green tea (if using), and purple sweet potato powder (optional). Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble fresh taro milk tea: Place the syrup-soaked tapioca pearls into a glass, add ice cubes to chill, and pour the blended taro milk over the top. Stir gently before drinking.
- Blend powdered taro milk tea: In a blender, combine taro powder, sweetened condensed milk, plant-based milk, and cooled brewed green tea. Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble powdered taro milk tea: Add syrup-soaked tapioca pearls to a serving glass, fill with ice cubes, and pour the blended taro milk tea mixture on top. Stir gently to mix.
Notes
- The sweetness level may vary depending on your taro paste or taro powder; adjust the amount of condensed milk accordingly.
- Green tea is optional and can be omitted especially when serving this drink to children or those avoiding caffeine.
- Using plant-based milk makes this recipe suitable for vegans and those lactose intolerant.
- Instant tapioca pearls can speed up the preparation time significantly.
