Sweet Coconut Tapioca Bubbles

1.Rinse the tapioca pearls under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

2.In a medium saucepan, bring 1 liter of water to a rolling boil. Add the rinsed tapioca pearls and stir gently to prevent sticking.

3.Cook the tapioca pearls over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent with a small white dot in the center.

4.Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the tapioca pearls sit for another 10 minutes to finish cooking and become fully translucent and chewy.

5.Drain the tapioca pearls and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. Set aside.

6.In a separate saucepan, combine the coconut milk, water, palm sugar, and salt. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Do not boil.

7.Remove the coconut milk mixture from heat and stir in the vanilla extract if using.

8.Add the cooked tapioca pearls to the coconut milk mixture and stir gently to combine. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and thicken slightly.

9.Serve the sweet coconut tapioca bubbles chilled in small bowls or glasses. Garnish with fresh mango slices or toasted coconut flakes if desired for added texture and flavor.