Monday, August 24, 2009

Day 26: B-O-B-A TEA!



Boba tea or bubble tea originated in Taiwan in the 1980s, first spread to nearby East Asian countries, migrated to Canada before spreading to Chinatown in New York City, then to various spots throughout the West Coast of the United States. This drink is distinguished by the ball-shaped gummis located at the bottom of a cup. These can come in various sizes and colors. Black is the most traditional and are typically made of tapioca. So, I know what you're thinking, "Why would I possibly want to eat black gummi balls??" Because they are simply too good to not eat. These balls do not really have a distinctive flavor on their own and instead take their flavor from the liquid in which the tapioca balls are submerged. In terms of consistency and texture themselves, I'm not gonna lie, they're pretty darn weird. I recommend not grabbing them with you fingers before consumption. The fact that they feel like cold, squishy monster eyes may not stimulate the appetite. Your first time may seem a bit unusual and rather revolting. But take a few moments to imagine that those balls are a new, healthier version of gummi bears. In most cases a large colored straw is essential to drink and suck up the various boba balls. The liquid/drink part that serves as the tea can come in one of two forms: fruit-flavored teas, and milk teas. These milk or fruit-flavored teas can also come in a blended slushie form. In terms of flavors, the possibilities are endless! A few favorites of mine include pumpkin spice and mocha. In the country today, the most boba/bubble tea shop are franchise of a Lollicup. This shop acts as an Asian version of the tradition coffee spot. Not only do these franchises sell Asian snacks and cookies, but they offer entertainment such as board games, manga books (which are not in English), an possibly fooseball.

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