Mango Sticky Rice

Short description

Mango Sticky Rice is a traditional Southeast Asian dessert that combines sweet glutinous rice soaked in coconut milk with ripe, juicy mango slices. The dish is typically served warm or at room temperature and finished with a drizzle of creamy coconut sauce and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crispy mung beans for added texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors

• Made with only a few simple ingredients

• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free

• An elegant and refreshing dessert, ideal for warm weather

• Can be made ahead of time for easy entertaining

• Customizable with various toppings or rice varieties

• A great way to enjoy seasonal ripe mangoes

• Both comforting and exotic in flavor

• A fun introduction to Thai cuisine

• Visually beautiful and appealing for guests

ingredients

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

• Glutinous (sticky) rice

• Coconut milk

• Granulated sugar

• Salt

• Ripe mangoes

• Cornstarch or rice flour (for thickening the sauce)

• Optional toppings: toasted sesame seeds, crispy mung beans

directions

1. Soak the rice
   Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Soak in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.

2. Steam the rice
   Drain the soaked rice and steam in a bamboo or metal steamer for about 30 to 40 minutes, until the grains are tender and sticky.

3. Make the coconut mixture
   While the rice is steaming, heat the coconut milk in a saucepan with sugar and salt. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Do not bring to a boil.

4. Combine rice and coconut milk
   Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and pour most of the warm coconut milk over it. Mix gently and cover. Let it rest for 20–30 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the coconut flavor.

5. Prepare coconut sauce
   In a small saucepan, mix the remaining coconut milk with a bit of cornstarch or rice flour to thicken. Stir constantly over low heat until the sauce is slightly thickened.

6. Assemble the dish
   Slice the ripe mangoes. On each plate, serve a portion of the sticky rice with mango slices. Drizzle with coconut sauce and garnish with sesame seeds or crispy mung beans if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time)

• Cook time: 40 minutes

• Total time: Approximately 5 hours including soaking

Variations

• Use black glutinous rice for a more dramatic appearance and a nuttier flavor

• Add a touch of pandan essence or a pandan leaf to the coconut milk for fragrance

• Garnish with toasted coconut flakes for extra crunch

• Try adding a pinch of turmeric or butterfly pea flower for natural color

• Substitute mango with ripe peaches or papaya in off-seasons

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store rice and mango separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

• Reheating: Reheat the rice by steaming or microwaving it with a damp paper towel until warmed through

• Freezing: The sticky rice can be frozen in individual portions and reheated later; mango should be added fresh after thawing

FAQs

1. What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Only glutinous or sticky rice should be used, as it has the ideal texture for absorbing coconut milk.

2. Can I use canned coconut milk?

Yes, canned full-fat coconut milk is recommended for the richest flavor and best consistency.

3. Can I make mango sticky rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and coconut sauce a day in advance. Reheat gently before serving and add fresh mango at the last minute.

4. Is mango sticky rice served hot or cold?

It is traditionally served with warm or room-temperature sticky rice and cool mango slices.

5. What if I don’t have a steamer?

You can use a makeshift steamer by placing a heatproof bowl or colander over a pot of boiling water, covered with a lid or foil.

6. How ripe should the mangoes be?

Use mangoes that are ripe, fragrant, and slightly soft to the touch for the best flavor and sweetness.

7. Can I use other fruits instead of mango?

Yes, other tropical fruits like papaya, pineapple, or even durian can be used as alternatives.

8. How do I prevent the rice from drying out in the fridge?

Store the rice in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of coconut milk or water to restore moisture.

9. Is this dish vegan?

Yes, mango sticky rice is naturally vegan if made with plant-based ingredients.

10. Can I make this dessert without sugar?

You can substitute the sugar with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

Conclusion

Mango Sticky Rice is a luxurious yet simple dessert that beautifully showcases the harmony of tropical flavors and textures. With its creamy coconut-infused rice and succulent mango slices, it’s a dish that brings both comfort and a touch of indulgence. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply craving something unique, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.