What are the chewy balls in bubble tea?

The chewy balls in bubble tea are commonly known as "boba" or tapioca pearls. They are made primarily from tapioca starch, which is derived from the cassava root. Tapioca pearls are cooked until they become translucent and chewy, and they are typically black or translucent in color. Boba adds texture and a unique mouthfeel to bubble tea, and they are consumed along with the drink through a wide straw. Tapioca pearls come in various sizes, and their chewiness adds to the overall enjoyment of bubble tea.