Brew black tea (or green tea) and let it steep until strong
Mix hot water with brown sugar (or simple syrup) until fully dissolved
Simmer tapioca pearls in a small pot of water until tender
Stir pearls to prevent sticking
Add sugar syrup to the cooked pearls and simmer briefly to coat
Turn off heat and let pearls sit in syrup until ready to serve
Chill tea (or serve over ice)
Fill serving cups with ice
Add tapioca pearls to the cups
Pour in tea
Add milk (optional) and adjust to taste
Stir well and serve with a wide straw