Description
This recipe guides you through making refreshing Watermelon Popping Boba, delicate spheres with a burst of watermelon juice inside. Utilizing sodium alginate and calcium lactate, the boba spheres are formed through a molecular gastronomy technique called spherification, creating a fun, flavorful addition perfect for drinks and desserts.
Ingredients
Watermelon Boba Mixture
- 1 cup watermelon juice (freshly blended and strained)
- 2 grams sodium alginate
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, adjust sweetness)
Calcium Bath
- 5 grams calcium lactate
- 500 ml water (divided)
Instructions
- Prepare the Watermelon Mixture: In a blender, combine the watermelon juice and sodium alginate. Blend thoroughly until the sodium alginate is fully dissolved, and the mixture is smooth with no visible clumps. Let it rest for 15 minutes to allow air bubbles to escape, ensuring a smooth spherification process.
- Make the Calcium Bath: In a separate bowl, dissolve the calcium lactate in 500 ml of water to create the calcium bath solution. Stir until completely dissolved.
- Form the Boba Spheres: Using a syringe or dropper, carefully drop small droplets of the watermelon mixture into the calcium bath. Drop slowly to maintain sphere shape.
- Set the Spheres: Let the spheres sit in the calcium bath for 1-2 minutes. This allows a thin gel-like skin to form around them, creating the popping texture.
- Rinse the Boba: Using a slotted spoon, gently remove the spheres from the calcium bath and rinse them in clean water to remove any excess calcium solution.
- Store Properly: Place the popping boba in a container containing some watermelon juice or flavored syrup to keep them hydrated and flavorful until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use freshly strained watermelon juice for the best flavor and color.
- The sugar is optional and can be adjusted or omitted depending on the sweetness of the watermelon.
- Work in small batches to maintain sphere integrity and prevent clumping.
- Keep the spheres refrigerated and use within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
- The calcium bath is reusable; strain and store it for future batches.
