Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Milk Recipe – Thai Special

Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Milk is a smooth, lightly sweet, and soothing dessert popular across Southeast Asia. Made with soft tapioca pearls simmered in rich coconut milk and gently sweetened, this dish is loved for its comforting texture and tropical flavor.

Perfect as a light dessert or evening sweet, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be enjoyed warm or chilled.

  • Prep Time10 min
  • Cook Time25 min
  • Total Time35 min

Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Milk Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup small tapioca pearls
  • 2 cups water (for cooking pearls)
  • 1 cup thick coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract or pandan essence (optional)
  • Fresh fruit or toasted coconut for garnish (optional)

Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Milk Instructions

1

Rinse tapioca pearls under cold water

2

Bring water to a boil in a saucepan and add tapioca pearls.

3

Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until pearls turn translucent.

4

Drain excess water if needed.

5

Add coconut milk, sugar, and salt to the cooked pearls.

6

Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until creamy.

7

Stir in vanilla or pandan essence if using.

8

Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

9

Serve warm or chilled, garnished as desired.

Recipe Notes :

Stir often to prevent pearls from sticking

Do not overcook or pearls may become mushy

Use full-fat coconut milk for best creaminess

Adjust sweetness depending on personal preference