NATIONAL BUBBLE TEA DAY- FOODIES SPECIALE

Hey Foodie, have you ever heard of Bubble Tea? I take a wild guess that you have, and if you haven’t, don’t worry, I got you. Bubble tea, also known as Boba tea, originated in Taiwan in the 1980s and quickly became a global phenomenon. Its creation is attributed to the innovation of a tea house owner named Liu Han-Chieh, who was inspired to add tapioca pearls to traditional Taiwanese milk tea to transform the beverage, giving it a unique texture and making it a hit. The “bubble” is often interpreted as referring to the tapioca pearls, which resemble bubbles floating in the drink.

Since it is National Bubble Tea Day or Boba Tea Day, whichever you’d like to call it. I decided to interview Andrea of Boba Tea Shop; The first Nigerian store to sell Nigerian-made Boba pearls to learn from her box of knowledge on everything that there is to Boba Tea in Nigeria, and the world at large. Let’s journey. My Boba Tea Lovers, here comes the tea!!!

INTERVIEW WITH ANDREA OF BOBA TEA SHOP, LAGOS

Q: Hi Andrea, We (foodies) are super pleased to E-meet you. We hope it’s the same for you? Let’s get started, we want to know Andrea of Boba Tea Shop. Shall we? Please, tell us all about you.

A: My name is Andrea Barn-Nzekwe. In my spare time, I enjoy immersing myself in books, indulging in the therapeutic art of crocheting, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. As for my personality, I tend to lean towards the shy introverted side, finding comfort and solace in quieter moments. One thing people often mention about me is my thoughtful and attentive nature, especially when it comes to listening and offering support.

Q: So, Boba Tea Shop? Interesting. How did it start? What was the journey like? Could you walk us through the process of developing your unique Boba pearls, including any challenges you encountered along the way?

A: Boba Tea Shop’s journey is a blend of inspiration from Asian dramas and modern platforms like TikTok. Witnessing bubble tea’s allure sparked my curiosity, leading to a quest for knowledge about its origins and crafting process. This journey involved researching, experimenting, and even comparing store-bought Boba pearls with homemade ones to refine our recipe. Challenges arose in sourcing quality ingredients and achieving the perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Q: What is it like being the first Nigerian Store to sell Nigerian Made Boba Pearls? How has it been so far? Is it a thing you’d do over and over again? 

A: Being the first Nigerian store to sell Nigerian-made Boba pearls has been both exhilarating and challenging. However, despite the challenges, it’s something I would wholeheartedly do all over again.

Q: In your professional opinion, what would you say the benefits of Bubble Tea/Pearls are?

A: The benefits of bubble tea and pearls extend beyond just being a delicious treat. With its common green tea base, bubble tea is not only refreshing but also beneficial for the immune system. Green tea is rich in antioxidants and nutrients that support overall health and well-being, making it a wholesome choice for those looking to boost their immune system while indulging in a flavorful beverage. So, while enjoying bubble tea and pearls, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also giving your body a nutritious boost.

Q: If you don’t mind sharing with us, what’s that secret ingredient that makes Bubble Tea the main deal? 

A: Certainly! While there are many elements that contribute to the allure of bubble tea, if I had to pinpoint one secret ingredient, I would say it’s the pearls themselves. The chewy texture and subtle sweetness of the pearls elevate the entire bubble tea experience, adding a delightful contrast to the smooth tea base. I truly believe that the pearls are the main deal when it comes to bubble tea, infusing each sip with a burst of flavor and fun.

Q: We know Bubble Tea originated from Taiwan, are we right or this was just a notion from some people? What history of Bubble Tea can you share with us? 

A: You’re absolutely correct! Bubble tea indeed originated from Taiwan. It was first invented in the 1980s, reportedly by a tea vendor who began adding tapioca pearls to tea drinks as a playful twist. The trend quickly caught on and evolved into the beloved beverage we know today. Over the years, bubble tea has become a global phenomenon, with countless variations and adaptations inspired by its Taiwanese roots. Its rich history reflects not only a beverage but also a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate people worldwide.

Q: What’s your best Bubble Tea Flavor to have? 

A: My best bubble tea flavor to have is one that I’ve created myself—it’s a unique blend of hibiscus and orange juice. This concoction combines the floral notes of hibiscus with the zesty tang of orange, resulting in a refreshing and vibrant flavor profile that’s both soothing and invigorating. It’s a personal favorite and it’s called the sunset.

Q: Is there a way you ensure that your Boba pearls reflect the flavors and cultural essence of Nigeria?

A: In our quest to ensure that our Boba pearls reflect the flavors and cultural essence of Nigeria, it’s been an ongoing journey of exploration and innovation. While I’ve been diligently working on incorporating authentic Nigerian ingredients and flavors, I admit that finding the perfect balance is still a work in progress. However, I’m fully committed to the process and dedicated to refining our recipe until we achieve Boba pearls that truly embody the diverse and vibrant culinary tapestry of Nigeria.

Q: What impact do you hope your bubble tea shop will have on the local community?

A: I aspire for my bubble tea shop to have a transformative impact on the local community. By offering something different from the usual drinks readily available, I hope to introduce a new and exciting beverage experience that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fosters a sense of curiosity and exploration. Moreover, I aim to create a welcoming space where people can gather, connect, and celebrate cultural diversity over a shared love for bubble tea. Ultimately, I envision my shop as not just a place to enjoy delicious drinks, but as a hub of community engagement and cultural exchange.

Thank you so much Andrea, I think the best way to celebrate National Bubble Tea Day is by spotlighting someone who is making a wave of change with it. Foodies, I hope you enjoyed the read. Until next time.

HAPPY NATIONAL BUBBLE TEA DAY -APRIL 30TH

Catch up with Andrea and buy yourself some authentic Nigerian Bubble Tea today

Remember to subscribe to our newsletter here and subscribe to the YouTube channel and banter with me on Twitter and TikTok , Threads and  Instagram