Tapioca pearls are indeed made from cassava. Cassava, also known as manioc or yuca, is a root vegetable that is widely grown and consumed in many parts of the world. It is a staple food in many tropical regions and is known for its starchy nature.
To make tapioca pearls, the cassava root is first harvested and peeled. The peeled roots are then grated or ground to extract the starchy pulp. This pulp is then washed and strained to separate the starch from the fibers. The starch is collected and undergoes a process of refinement to produce tapioca flour.
Tapioca flour, also called tapioca starch, is the main ingredient used in making tapioca pearls. The flour is mixed with water to form a dough, which is then rolled into small balls or pearls. These pearls are then cooked in boiling water until they become translucent and chewy.
It is important to note that there are different varieties of tapioca pearls available in the market. Some are colored and flavored, while others are plain white. The coloring and flavoring are usually added during the manufacturing process to enhance the taste and appearance of the tapioca pearls.
While tapioca pearls are made from cassava, it is worth mentioning that there is another similar product called sago. Sago is also a type of starch derived from the pith of the sago palm tree. The process of making sago is slightly different from tapioca pearls. The pith of the sago palm is extracted and pounded to release the starch. This starch is then washed and sieved to form small granules, which are then cooked in boiling water.
In terms of texture and taste, tapioca pearls and sago have some similarities. Both have a chewy and gelatinous texture when cooked, although tapioca pearls tend to be slightly larger and more translucent. However, sago is often considered to be of higher quality and more authentic compared to tapioca pearls.
Tapioca pearls are made from cassava root, which is processed to extract the starch and then refined into tapioca flour. The flour is then shaped into small balls and cooked to create the familiar tapioca pearls. While sago is a similar product derived from the sago palm tree, tapioca pearls are generally considered to be an imitation or cheaper version of sago.
