Thai Milk Tea with Pearls
Beverages • Singapore
About Thai Milk Tea With Pearls
Sweet Thai milk tea with tapioca pearls, usually heavier than plain tea orders. Calories vary by size, sugar level and toppings, so SingaporeCalorie treats this as a practical estimate for a regular Singapore bubble tea cup.
How to Make Thai Milk Tea With Pearls (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Thai Milk Tea With Pearls is a beloved beverage in Singapore’s vibrant bubble tea scene, melding the rich, aromatic flavours of Thai-style tea with the chewy satisfaction of tapioca pearls. Popular in kopitiams and modern hawker stalls, this drink reflects Singapore’s fusion culture, where local and regional influences blend seamlessly. The familiar sight of colorful bubble tea shops at heartland malls and hawker centres highlights its status as a go-to refreshment for all ages. Traditionally sweet and creamy, our version of Thai Milk Tea With Pearls is tailored for the health-conscious, offering the same authentic taste but with lighter ingredients and reduced sugar. This beverage is a perfect treat for Singapore’s tropical climate—cool, fragrant, and just sweet enough to satisfy. Whether enjoyed as a midday pick-me-up or a treat after a stroll through your neighbourhood kopitiam, this homemade recipe brings together the best of Singapore’s bubble tea culture in a lighter, more nutritious cup.
Ingredients(for 1 tall glass (about 250ml) with pearls)
- 2 tablespoons Thai tea leaves (available at local wet markets)
- 1/3 cup Low-fat evaporated milk (can substitute with oat or soy milk)
- 1/4 cup Tapioca pearls (small black pearls, cooked)
- 1 tablespoon Stevia or monk fruit sweetener (sugar substitute for lower calories)
- 2 cups Hot water (freshly boiled)
- 1 cup Ice cubes (use more for extra chill)
- 1 piece Pandan leaf (optional, for local aroma) - optional
- 2 teaspoons Unsweetened condensed milk (for creamy finish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Brew Thai tea leaves in 2 cups of hot water with pandan leaf for 5 minutes, then strain.
7 minutes
Use a tea sock or fine sieve for a smoother brew.
- 2
While tea is brewing, cook tapioca pearls according to package instructions, then soak in cool water to prevent sticking.
10 minutes
Rinse pearls under cold water for best chewy texture.
- 3
Stir sweetener into hot tea until dissolved. Let tea cool to room temperature.
5 minutes
Adjust sweetness to taste; start with less and add more if needed.
- 4
Fill each glass with cooked tapioca pearls (about 2 tablespoons per glass).
2 minutes
Use a slotted spoon to portion pearls evenly.
Why This Dish is Healthy
By opting for low-fat evaporated milk and natural sweeteners like stevia, this Thai Milk Tea With Pearls satisfies your bubble tea cravings without excess calories or sugar. The lighter recipe helps maintain balanced macros and is ideal for those tracking their intake or seeking a healthier alternative to typical kopitiam bubble teas. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that fits into a balanced Singaporean diet.
This healthy Thai Milk Tea With Pearls recipe is low in calories (76 per serving) and contains only 1.8g of fat, making it suitable for those mindful of their daily intake. The use of low-fat milk and natural sweeteners reduces saturated fat and sugar content. The tapioca pearls provide a small amount of carbohydrates for quick energy. The inclusion of pandan adds antioxidants, while the tea supplies a gentle caffeine boost and polyphenols that may support heart health.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: For a stronger aroma, add the pandan leaf during brewing.
- 💡Tip 2: Always cook tapioca pearls just before serving to keep them chewy.
- 💡Tip 3: Serve in transparent glasses to showcase the vibrant layers.
Storage & Serving
Best enjoyed fresh. Keep brewed tea and cooked pearls separate if preparing ahead; refrigerate tea for up to 2 days. Pearls should be consumed within 4 hours for best texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 76.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15.0 g |
| Total Fat | 1.8 g |
| Fiber | 0.2 g |
