1/3 c. small pearl tapioca
3/4 c. water
2 1/4 cups milk (2%)
1/4 t. sea salt
1/2 c. sugar divided
2 eggs separate
1/2 t. vanilla extract
Soak tapioca in water for 30 minutes in a 1 1/2 quart saucepan. Do not strain remaining water.
Add milk, salt, 1/4 c. sugar and lightly beaten egg yolks to tapioca and stir over medium heat until boiling. Simmer uncovered over very low heart for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring often.
Beat egg whites with remaining 1/4 c. sugar until soft peaks form. Fold about 3/4 c. of hot tapioca into the egg whites, then gently fold mixture back into saucepan. Stir over low heat for about 3 minutes. Cool 15 minutes and then add vanilla.
Serve warm or chillled, plain or with fruits, nutmeg or coconut mixed in.