Bubble tea has gained popularity in recent years with its various flavors and chewy tapioca pearls. One of the most beloved flavors is taro milk tea, which offers a unique and delicious experience. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about taro milk tea, including what it is, how it tastes, and its potential health benefits.
What is Taro?
Taro (also called colocasia esculenta) is a root vegetable that has become the most widely cultivated plant in the Araceae family. This plant is derived from Southeast Asia and has been a staple in multiple cultures throughout history.
The phenolic pigments in the root give the corms of C. esculenta their characteristic purple hue. Most Americans now view taro as an "exotic treat" because of its purple hue, and they are starting to eat desserts made with taro. Taro is widely used in cooking because of its sweet, nutty flavor, which is derived from the natural sugars in the corms.
What is Taro Milk Tea?
Taro milk tea (also called taro bubble tea or taro boba) is a common drink that originated in Taiwan. Taro bubble tea is a type of milk tea that is made with taro, a starchy root vegetable that has a sweet, nutty flavor. The drink is then topped with cooked tapioca pearls, or boba, giving it its signature chewy texture.
What Does Taro Milk Tea Taste Like?
Taro milk tea has a unique and delicious flavor. It has a creamy and nutty taste, similar to sweet potato or vanilla, with a hint of floral notes. The tapioca pearls add a chewy texture, making it a fun and enjoyable drink.
How is Taro Milk Tea Made?
Ingredients
- 150 grams taro (peeled and cubed)
- 4 teaspoons sugar
- Salt
- 3 tablespoons tapioca pearls (boba)
- ½ cup black tea
- 200 milliliters milk
- 1 teaspoon condensed milk
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the taro root cubes for 20 minutes over medium heat until they are soft enough to be pierced through with a fork. Once the boiling process is complete, discard the water.
- Step 2: Smash the taro root into an even paste. You can use a food processor or blender to have a smoothest result. While the paste is still hot, add 2 teaspoons of sugar and set the final product aside.
- Step 3: Add the tapioca pearls and the remaining 2 teaspoons of sugar to a pot of boiling water. Boil the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes or until the boba begins to float (Time will depend on how soft you want the boba to be and you might have to adjust the boil time). Once completed, remove them from the water and set them aside.
- Step 4: Steep your black tea and mix it with the taro paste and the condensed milk. Once these ingredients have been mixed, add the boba and milk to it. You can enjoy the final product hot or cold, so if you prefer cold, refrigerate tarot milk tea.
Taro Milk Drinks Recipes
Taro Iced Coffee
Ingredients: Taro milk (prepared as per the recipe above), brewed coffee, cooled and Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Step 1: Prepare the taro milk.
- Step 2: Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Step 3: Pour brewed coffee over the ice, leaving some space at the top.
- Step 4: Gently pour the taro milk on top of the coffee.
- Step 5: Stir and savor the unique blend of flavors.
Taro Latte
Ingredients: Taro milk, Espresso or strong coffee
Instructions:
- Step 1: Prepare the taro milk.
- Step 2: Brew a shot of espresso or strong coffee.
- Step 3: Pour the coffee into a cup.
- Step 4: Add the taro milk on top.
- Step 5: Stir gently, and your taro latte is ready.
Taro Frappuccino
Ingredients: Taro milk, Ice cubes and whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Step 1: Prepare the taro milk
- Step 2: Add ice cubes and the taro milk to a blender.
- Step 3: Blend until smooth
- Step 4: Pour into a glass, top with whipped cream if desired, and enjoy.
What are the Benefits of Taro Milk Tea?
Manage Our Blood Sugar Levels
Taro contains two essential components that make it a viable tool for reducing blood sugar: fiber and resistant starch. Fiber aids in reducing the rate at which some carbohydrates are metabolized, which prevents blood sugar spikes.
Research indicates that eating a high-fiber diet can lower blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetics by 10 mg/dl. Since taro's resistant starch is indigestible, it does not contribute to the starches that raise blood sugar levels. This implies that the fiber in taro lowers blood sugar levels and that the resistant starch provides the starch's nutrients without the addition of glucose.
Improve Cardiovascular Health
Taro root helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease using the fiber that helps it combat high blood sugar. According to one study, consuming an extra 10 grams of fiber daily reduced the risk of heart disease by 17%. Fiber's capacity to regulate cholesterol levels is thought to be the reason for its heart-healthy benefits.
Improve Your Health
Black tea is a very pure form derived from Camellia sinensis. Like all tea from this plant, black tea is packed with nutrients that can enhance the natural qualities of taro.
What Flavors of Taro Bubble Tea Can You Try?
Taro milk tea is a versatile drink that can be customized with different flavors. Some popular variations include:
- Taro milk tea with boba pearls
- Taro milk tea with coconut milk
- Taro milk tea with honey or brown sugar
- Taro milk tea with fruit flavors like strawberry or mango
FAQs
Is Taro Milk Tea Healthy?
Taro milk tea can be a healthier alternative to other sweetened beverages, depending on how it is prepared. It is lower in calories and sugar compared to drinks like soda or milkshakes. However, it is still important to consume it in moderation and consider the added sugar from the taro powder or syrup.
Is Taro Milk Tea Good for Weight Loss?
While taro milk tea may be a healthier option compared to other sugary drinks, it is not a weight loss drink. It still contains calories and should be consumed in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet.
Is Taro Bubble Tea Gluten-Free?
Taro milk tea is typically gluten-free, but it is important to check the ingredients of the taro powder or syrup used. Some brands may contain gluten as a thickening agent, so it is best to choose a certified gluten-free option if you have a gluten intolerance or allergy.
Does Taro Bubble Tea Have Caffeine Content?
Taro milk tea contains caffeine from the black tea used in the drink. However, the amount of caffeine can vary depending on the type of tea and how it is brewed. If you are sensitive to caffeine, you can opt for decaffeinated black tea or choose a non-caffeinated base for your taro milk tea.
Conclusion
In conclusion, taro milk tea is a delicious and unique flavor of bubble tea that offers potential health benefits and can be customized to suit different tastes. Give it a try and experience the creamy and chewy goodness of taro milk tea.
