Step 1

In a medium pot over high heat, combine the water and tea bags. Bring to a boil, then remove the pan from the heat and let the tea cool to room temperature.

Step 2

Bring a medium pot of water to boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, add the tapioca pearls and boil until softened, about 20 minutes.

Step 3

Drain the pearls through a strainer.

Step 4

Set the strainer with the pearls over a medium bowl. Add the brown sugar to the strainer and pour the hot water over.

Step 5

Stir to dissolve the brown sugar. Soak the pearls in brown sugar syrup for 30 minutes, then store the bubbles and syrup separately until ready to serve.

Step 6

Assemble the tea: Divide the pearls and ice between 2 glasses, then add the brown sugar syrup, tea, and half and half.

Step 7

Stir with a wide-opening straw, then serve.

Step 8

Enjoy!