You are standing in line at your favorite bubble tea spot, staring at the menu, and suddenly see something new – an option for crystal boba. This is when you start wondering, “What is crystal boba?”, and “Is it better than regular boba?”
Indeed, as the boba – or as some people call it bubble tea – world continues to change, there are more and more drinks popping up every now and then. This may be both exciting and a little confusing, depending on what type of consumer you are. So, if you belong to the first group, read on. In a moment you will get all the info about crystal boba you need.
What Exactly Is Crystal Boba?
First things first – what is crystal boba?
Crystal boba, also known as agar boba, is a type of boba that is made either from agar, a plant-based gelatin derived from seaweed, or cassava plant.
Truth be told, this is the major difference from regular boba, which is made from tapioca starch. Because of the agar or cassava plant base, crystal boba has a translucent, jelly-like look and a slightly different texture.
Some people describe it as firmer and less chewy than regular boba pearls that most of us are used to. Other people, in turn, describe it as crunchy, though crystal boba pearls are more like a soft, springy jelly.
How Does It Compare to Regular Boba?
And here is where things get really interesting. If you have been sipping bubble tea with regular boba pearls for a while, you probably know that classic tapioca pearls have a distinctive, chewy texture. This chewy, gummy bite is what gives boba its iconic feel.
Crystal boba, on the other hand, offers a lighter, more refreshing taste. It doesn’t have the same chewy, dense texture, which can be a plus or a minus depending on your taste.
What Does Crystal Boba Do for Your Bubble Tea?
Now that you know the most distinctive features that set both pearls apart, let us take a look at how crystal boba can actually change your bubble tea drinking.
Crystal Boba Texture
If you are not a fan of the chewy texture of regular tapioca pearls, crystal boba is a great alternative. Its jelly-like consistency can make the drink feel lighter, almost like you are eating a fruit dessert.
Crystal Boba Flavor
Since crystal boba is often flavored, it adds an extra hint of sweetness or fruitiness to your drink, complementing the tea base. This can be a fun way to mix things up if you want to try new combinations.
Crystal Boba Aesthetic
Let us be real – crystal boba looks dope! Its translucent appearance gives your drink an extra pop!
The Verdict: Which Should You Pick?
So, is crystal boba better than regular boba? Well, it depends on what you are looking for in your drink!
Go for regular boba if you love that chewy texture and want a more traditional bubble tea drink. It is the classic for a reason and pairs well with a wide variety of teas and flavors.
Choose crystal boba if you are in the mood for something lighter and less chewy, or if you want to try something that feels a bit more refreshing.
