Creamy Matcha Sago

Matcha sago is a refreshing and creamy summer dessert drink that combines the earthy flavors of matcha with chewy tapioca pearls and fresh fruit. With a delightful mix of textures from sago, jellies, and strawberries, this easy-to-make treat is perfect for warm weather or as a unique after-meal dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A refreshing and cooling dessert perfect for summer
• Balanced flavors of earthy matcha, sweet honey, and creamy milk
• Customizable with different jellies, fruits, or alternative sweeteners
• Easy to prepare and assemble in under 30 minutes
• A beautiful and visually appealing treat for matcha lovers

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 5 cups water
• ¼ cup sago (small tapioca pearls)
• ½ cup evaporated milk, chilled
• ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based), chilled
• 2 teaspoons matcha powder
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 cup strawberries, chopped
• ½ cup matcha jelly (optional)
• ½ cup lychee jelly (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Sago Pearls

1. Bring 5 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the sago pearls and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let them cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn fully translucent.
3. Drain the cooked sago using a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the liquid runs clear. This prevents them from sticking together.

Step 2: Prepare the Matcha Milk

1. Sift matcha powder into a mug to remove any clumps.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of hot water and whisk vigorously until smooth.
3. Stir in the honey and whisk again until fully dissolved.
4. Pour in the chilled milk and mix well.

Step 3: Assemble the Matcha Sago

1. In a serving bowl or glass, add the diced strawberries, cooked sago, and optional matcha and lychee jelly.
2. Pour in the evaporated milk and prepared matcha milk.
3. Mix everything together and serve immediately.

Step 4: Chill (Optional)

• For a colder and more refreshing drink, refrigerate the assembled sago for 1–2 hours before serving. Avoid leaving it in the fridge for more than 3 hours, as the pearls may harden.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2–3
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk or oat milk instead of evaporated milk and dairy milk.
• Sweetener Substitutes: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave syrup.
• Extra Toppings: Add mango cubes, boba pearls, or chia seeds for added texture.
• Matcha Latte Sago: Add extra milk for a more drinkable consistency.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 hours before serving. Beyond that, the sago may harden.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the tapioca pearls will become tough and lose their texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular tapioca pearls instead of sago?

Yes, but cooking time may vary depending on the size of the pearls.

How do I prevent sago from sticking together?

Rinse the cooked sago under cold water until the starchy residue is removed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can refrigerate it for up to 3 hours before serving.

What type of matcha is best for this recipe?

Ceremonial-grade matcha provides the best flavor and color, but culinary-grade matcha can also work.

Can I use almond or soy milk instead of dairy milk?

Yes, any plant-based milk will work as a substitute.

How can I make this drink sweeter?

Increase the honey or add a splash of sweetened condensed milk.

What other toppings can I add?

Try crushed nuts, mochi, or sweet red beans for added texture and flavor.

Is this similar to bubble tea?

Yes, but it features smaller sago pearls instead of large boba pearls.

Can I use store-bought matcha jelly?

Yes, or you can make homemade matcha jelly using agar agar or gelatin.

What if I don’t have a whisk for the matcha?

A small spoon or milk frother can also help dissolve the matcha powder.

Conclusion

Matcha sago is a light, creamy, and refreshing dessert drink that combines the rich flavors of matcha with the chewiness of tapioca pearls. Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or as a unique after-meal treat, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to be a favorite. Try it with different toppings and sweeteners for a personalized twist!