Bubble tea, originally known as pearl milk tea, is a Taiwanese tea-based drink that has seen global popularity. Here’s a look into its history and global reach.
History and Invention
Bubble tea was invented in Taiwan in the 1980s. Liu Han-Chieh, the owner of a tea house in Taichung, is credited for adding tapioca balls to his tea to attract more customers, though some believe the origin could trace back to Tu Tsong He of the Hanlin Tea Room in Tainan. The exact history is debated, but it’s certain that the unique drink has become a beloved icon in Taiwan and abroad.
Global Market Growth
According to recent estimates, the global bubble tea market will likely grow from $2.75 billion in 2022 to an impressive $6.2 billion by 2032. The delightful blend of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca balls continues to gain fans across continents.
A Closer Look at the Preparation
The complete story of bubble tea includes an evolution of its preparation. Originally, the drink involved a mix of flavors, sugar, and tea, vigorously shaken to create the characteristic frothy top. Now, many shops automate the process with bubble tea shaker machines. The addition of milk and sugar to tea in Taiwan dates back to the time of Dutch colonization from 1624-1662, showcasing the deep-rooted culture of tea in the region.
Who Created Bubble Tea?
While Liu Han-Chieh is often recognized as the inventor, other tales suggest that Tu Tsong He and Lin Hsiu Hui may also have played pivotal roles in the creation of bubble tea. Moreover, the invention may have been inspired by the traditional Taiwanese dessert that involves sweetened tapioca balls, possibly making the drink’s genesis a collective cultural emergence rather than a single person’s innovation.