Boba refers to the small, round tapioca pearls that are the hallmark of bubble tea. Made from tapioca starch, which is derived from the cassava root, these pearls are typically black and have a soft, chewy consistency similar to gummy candy. When added to a drink often a tea-based beverage mixed with milk or fruit flavors they create a delightful contrast to the creamy or refreshing liquid they're served with. The popularity of bubble tea has transformed boba from a novelty into a relatively commonplace ingredient in various desserts.
