Ready for a delicious journey back to far-off Japan? That's the motherland of the Okinawa milk tea – a delicious variation of traditional milk famous for its rich and deep flavor. How is Okinawa milk tea made? How does its flavor differ from classic milk tea? In this article, we're taking a deep dive into this staple of Japanese cuisine.

What is Okinawa milk tea?

Made from the Okinawan brown sugar called "kokotu", the Okinawa milk tea is a distinctive twist on the classic tea. The brown sugar, often caramelized, provides a rich, molasses-like sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the smooth creaminess of milk or milk alternatives. It's very popular among bubble tea lovers and classic tastes aficionados alike – both groups can find something sweet, rich, and tasty in its deep flavor.

What's more, Okinawa milk tea is also full of antioxidants that can help reduce oxidative stress in the body. It's also a healthy source of caffeine, giving you a great energy boost with mood-enhancing effects thrown into the mix!

What's the difference between Okinawa milk tea and classic milk tea?

The main difference between Okinawa milk tea and classic milk tea lies in the type of sugar used. While classic milk tea is typically sweetened with regular white sugar or syrup, Okinawa milk tea uses kokuto. Kokuto is made by boiling sugarcane juice into a syrup and then allowing it to solidify. This results in a sugar with a deep, molasses-like flavor, which gives Okinawa milk tea a very special taste that can not be found in regular tea.

Anything else?

Yes, in addition to the flavor, Okinawa milk tea has a slightly richer and more complex texture. The brown sugar gives off a slightly smoky, caramelized flavor that adds depth and richness to the tea. Classic milk tea, on the other hand, tends to have a lighter finish. This is also reflected in the looks of both teas. Okinawa milk tea is darker and has a light brown hue to it, while regular tea is lighter and more bland-looking.

Okinawa milk tea – flavor and variations

Though the traditional version of Okinawa milk tea consists of only three main ingredients—black tea, Okinawan brown sugar, and milk, it's often customized with different types of flavors and toppings.

If you feel a little whimsical and want to try something fun, you can opt for one of these Okinawa milk tea alternatives:

Okinawa milk tea with boba: Just like other bubble tea drinks, Okinawa milk tea is often paired with chewy tapioca pearls for a fun twist.
Okinawa milk tea with fruit jelly: For a fruity – and unexpected – undertone, some people enjoy adding fruit jelly or popping boba to their Okinawa milk tea.
Matcha Okinawa milk tea: Some variations of Okinawa milk tea feature a matcha (green tea) base, adding a hint of bitterness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Caramel Okinawa milk tea: If you're in for something very sweet, you can enrich your Okinawa milk tea with caramel syrup or caramelized sugar for an even richer flavor.

The takeaway

Okinawa milk tea is an absolute must-try for everyone who enjoys a sweet and healthy snack, as well as travel lovers who live to explore other cuisines and cultures. Want to transport yourself to beautiful Japan with just one sip of the delicious and creamy Okinawa milk tea? Visit one of our Sharetea shops in your town!

What Is Okinawa Milk Tea?