Pour about 3 cups of water into a saucepan and place it on the stove. Once the water starts boiling, add the tapioca pearls. Let them cook for around 10–12 minutes, stirring from time to time so they don’t stick to the bottom. When they turn soft and chewy, drain the water and mix the pearls with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Leave them aside for later.

Heat 2 cups of water until it’s very hot but not fully boiling. Put the black tea bags into the water and let them sit for about 5 minutes so the flavor becomes strong. After that, take the tea bags out and allow the tea to cool a little.

Take a pitcher or a large cup and pour in the brewed tea. Add 1 cup of milk along with 2–3 tablespoons of sugar or simple syrup. Stir everything well until the sugar fully dissolves and the drink is evenly mixed.

Split the sweetened tapioca pearls between two tall glasses. Add some ice cubes on top. Slowly pour the milk tea over the ice and pearls. Give it a light stir and serve with a wide straw so the pearls can be enjoyed while drinking.