Bring water to a rolling boil in a pot over high heat. Slowly pour the tapioca pearls into the boiling water, stirring gently to prevent clumping.
4 1/4 cups water, 1/4 cup tapioca pearls
Lower the heat to medium and cook for about 20–30 minutes (or according to instructions on the package), stirring occasionally, especially near the end to prevent sticking. After cooking, turn off the heat and let the tapioca pearls sit in the pot of hot water with the lid closed for an additional 30 minutes to fully cook through.
Drain the pearls into a strainer and rinse them under cold running water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.
Transfer the pearls to a bowl and mix them with natural cane sugar or syrup to add sweetness. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and let the pearls cool to room temperature before continuing.
2 tbsp natural cane sugar
Make the drink
Mix fresh milk, evaporated milk, and ice in a blender. (For a pink-colored drink, add the strawberry syrup during this step and blend until smooth.)
1/2 cup fresh milk, 2 tbsp evaporated milk, ice
Pour the blended mixture into a glass, then top with strawberry syrup and the cooked tapioca pearls. Serve immediately and enjoy!
2 tbsp + 2 tsp strawberry syrup
Notes
Use the nutrition card in this recipe as a guideline.
You can also use this recipe wit other flavored syrups like coconut, mango, or orange!