Chewy and tasty: Recipes with tapioca pearls
What's the story
While most of us are familiar with tapioca pearls through bubble tea, they can also lend their chewy texture to some amazing culinary creations. These tiny, translucent balls are made with tapioca starch and can lend a unique twist to both sweet and savory dishes. While they're usually seen in drinks, there's a lot more they can be used for. Here are five surprising recipes with chewy tapioca pearls.
Sweet treat
Tapioca pearl pudding delight
Tapioca pearl pudding makes for a delightful dessert. It combines the chewy texture of the pearls with creamy milk/coconut milk. The pearls are cooked till they turn translucent and then mixed with sugar and vanilla for flavor. The dish can be served warm or chilled, making it a versatile option for any season.
Savory twist
Savory tapioca pearl risotto
For the savory lovers, tapioca pearl risotto makes for an intriguing alternative to the usual rice-based risottos. The pearls soak up flavors really well and lend a distinctive texture when paired with veggies like mushrooms or spinach. Slow cooking them makes them blend beautifully with flavors.
Fresh mix
Fruity tapioca pearl salad
A fruity tapioca pearl salad is just perfect for anyone looking for something refreshing yet filling. By mixing cooked tapioca pearls with fresh fruits like mangoes or strawberries along with mint leaves, you get an invigorating dish. It's just perfect as a light meal or snack in the hot weather.
Breakfast idea
Tapioca pearl pancakes
Adding tapioca pearls in your pancake batter brings chewiness without altering the taste too much- perfect for anyone looking for a twist at breakfast. Just fold in cooked pearls into your favorite pancake mix before cooking on a griddle. Serve topped with syrup, honey, or a fruit compote of your choice.
Flavorful dish
Spicy tapioca pearl stir-fry
Spicy stir-fried dishes benefit from the addition of chewy elements like these versatile little gems! Tossing them alongside vegetables, tofu, soy sauce, chili flakes results in a flavorful meal sure to satisfy spice lovers everywhere. This dish also offers a textural contrast typical stir-fries lack otherwise.