While we still recommend making in on the stove, in a pinch, you can use a microwave to cook your boba. Follow our recipe, except in Step 1, put 1/2* cup water and boba in a large mug** and microwave on high for roughly two (for higher power microwaves) to two and a half (for lower power models) minutes. It will be very hot so be careful when handling. Add 1/2 cup more water and microwave for 30 more seconds. Proceed with Step 2 of the recipe.
* In case you are wondering why we don't add the whole cup of water in the beginning, the reduced amount of water delivers more heat to the boba cooking them faster.
** ~20 oz or 2.5 cup capacity. The water will bubble over in smaller mugs.