As I wandered through the bustling streets of Bangkok, the sweet aroma of Mango Sticky Rice wafted through the air, instantly captivating my senses. This beloved Thai dessert blends the creaminess of coconut milk and the sweetness of ripe mango with a delightful sticky rice base. By making this simple yet sumptuous Mango Sticky Rice at home, you’ll unlock a world of flavors that are both gluten-free and vegan, perfect for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. What’s more, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it the ideal dessert for both casual nights and special occasions. So, are you ready to bring a taste of Thailand into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why is Mango Sticky Rice so Irresistible?
Gooey Perfection: The sticky rice is cooked to perfection, offering a comforting texture that’s impossible to resist.
Creamy Coconut Sauce: A luscious coconut sauce adds rich creaminess to each bite, elevating the indulgent experience.
Fresher and Healthier: Homemade means you control the ingredients, opting for fresh, ripe mangoes that burst with flavor.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dessert in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a celebration with friends, this dessert is sure to impress everyone! For more sweet inspiration, check out my Decadent Mango Cheesecake or try some Sticky Chicken Rice for a savory twist.
Mango Sticky Rice Ingredients
• Here are all the essential ingredients for your Mango Sticky Rice.
For the Rice
• Sticky Rice – This is the key ingredient that gives this dessert its unique, gooey texture. Make sure to use uncooked sticky rice, also known as glutinous rice.
For the Coconut Sauce
• Coconut Milk – Full-fat coconut milk will provide the richest flavor; feel free to use fresh coconut milk for an extra layer of authenticity.
• Sugar – A quarter cup of white granulated sugar perfectly balances the flavors; avoid using palm sugar, as it can darken the dessert.
• Salt – A pinch of salt (½ teaspoon) enhances the sweetness, making each bite a flavor sensation.
• Cornstarch (Optional) – If your coconut sauce is too thin, this can be used to thicken it; omit if you prefer a lighter drizzle.
For the Garnish
• Mangoes – The star of the show! Ripe varieties, such as Ataulfo or Tommy Atkins, offer the sweetest flavor.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds (Optional) – Add these for a delightful nutty crunch and an appealing presentation.
This simple yet delightful dessert brings the taste of Thailand right into your home, making it the perfect treat for any sweet tooth. Enjoy making your Mango Sticky Rice!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mango Sticky Rice
Step 1: Prepare Sticky Rice
Start by rinsing 1 cup of uncooked sticky rice under cold tap water until the water runs clear, about 2–3 minutes. Drain the rice and soak it in fresh water for at least 1 hour—overnight in the fridge is even better for a softer texture. After soaking, drain the rice again and prepare for steaming.
Step 2: Steam Rice
Place the drained sticky rice in a heatproof bowl that fits inside your steamer. Fill the steamer pot with water, ensuring it doesn’t touch the rice, and bring the water to a simmer over medium-high heat. Steam the rice for 20–25 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and tender. You’ll know it’s done when it feels firm but sticky to the touch.
Step 3: Make Coconut Sauce
While the rice is steaming, prepare the coconut sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 can of full-fat coconut milk, ¼ cup of sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir gently, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely—avoid boiling the mixture as it should remain smooth and creamy. Keep warm while you finish the rice.
Step 4: Thicken Sauce (if needed)
If you prefer your coconut sauce a bit thicker, mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 4 tablespoons of water to form a slurry. Gradually stir this into the warm coconut mixture and continue to heat until it thickens slightly, about 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat once desired thickness is achieved and set aside.
Step 5: Combine Rice and Sauce
Once the sticky rice is cooked, carefully transfer it to a large bowl using a spatula. Pour 1 cup of the coconut sauce over the warm rice, mixing gently to ensure the rice absorbs the sauce. Allow this mixture to sit for about 10 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Serve
After letting the rice mixture cool to room temperature, it’s time to serve your Mango Sticky Rice. Spoon the rice onto individual plates, and add sliced ripe mango on the side. Drizzle additional coconut sauce over the top, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if desired for added texture and flavor.
Mango Sticky Rice Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on Mango Sticky Rice!
-
Black Sticky Rice: Swap regular sticky rice with black glutinous rice for a striking color and nutty flavor. The contrast will impress your guests and add a unique touch to your dessert.
-
Coconut Milk Alternatives: Try using almond or oat milk for a lighter version of the coconut sauce. You’ll maintain the creamy element while experimenting with flavors!
-
Fruit Toppings: Elevate your dish with additional toppings like sweetened shredded coconut or slices of fresh kiwi. The extra textures can create a delightful sensory experience with every bite.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili powder or a splash of chili oil to your coconut sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat. The sweet and spicy combination is truly enchanting and unforgettable!
-
Maple Syrup: Replace sugar with pure maple syrup for a more natural sweetness. This twist brings a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with coconut and mango.
-
Nutty Crunch: Garnish with crushed peanuts or walnuts for an added crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy rice and soft mango. It’s such a simple touch that can elevate your dessert.
-
Creamy Tahini Drizzle: Introduce a swirl of tahini to the coconut sauce for added richness and an unexpected depth of flavor. The earthiness of tahini harmonizes beautifully with the dish!
For more delicious ideas, don’t miss out on my Decadent Mango Cheesecake or check out the savory twist of Sticky Chicken Rice. Enjoy experimenting with these variations!
Expert Tips for Mango Sticky Rice
- Soak Correctly: Always soak the sticky rice for at least an hour; overnight results in an even stickier texture, enhancing the overall experience.
- Gentle Heating: Avoid boiling the coconut sauce to prevent it from separating; heat it gently to keep that creamy consistency intact.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the sugar level to suit your taste. Reducing sugar will still yield a delightful Mango Sticky Rice without sacrificing flavor.
- Choose Ripe Mangoes: Selecting ripe mangoes is key to achieving a sweet punch; if unripe, store them in a warm place until they soften.
- Garnish Wisely: For an added nutty crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving; it elevates the dish beautifully!
What to Serve with Mango Sticky Rice
Mango Sticky Rice is a delightful culmination of flavors, inviting you to create a full meal experience that captivates your taste buds.
- Fresh Spring Rolls: These light, crispy rolls filled with vegetables and herbs add crunch and freshness, balancing the creamy dessert.
- Coconut Curry: A rich coconut curry provides a savory counterpart, with its warm spices enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of tropical fruits adds a refreshing touch, harmonizing beautifully with the sweet mango and coconut.
- Thai Iced Tea: The creamy, sweet notes of this beverage perfectly complement the dessert, creating a comforting blend of flavors.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Their smoky flavor contrasts with the sweetness of the sticky rice, making for a satisfying culinary adventure. Pairing these brings balance to the meal.
- Sesame Crusted Tofu: For a vegetarian option, the nutty sesame crust on tofu enhances the texture and ties in the toasted sesame seeds from the dessert.
- Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of this bright, tangy sorbet serves as a refreshing palate cleanser after the rich sticky rice.
- Coconut Ice Cream: Keeping the coconut theme, this treat brings a cold, delightful creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the warm dessert.
- Mango Lassi: This creamy yogurt-based drink with mango flavor pulls the whole meal together, inviting you to indulge in the mango theme across courses.
Make Ahead Options
Mango Sticky Rice is a fantastic dessert to prep in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can soak the sticky rice for up to 24 hours in advance to ensure a creamy texture and then steam it the day of serving. Additionally, the coconut sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just reheat gently to maintain its luscious consistency. When ready to serve, simply combine the rice with the coconut sauce, allow it to sit for about 10 minutes, and serve with fresh mango slices. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Mango Sticky Rice
Fridge: Store leftover mango sticky rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the coconut sauce separate if possible to maintain texture.
Freezer: Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sticky rice for up to 1 month. Cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight, then steam gently or microwave in short intervals until warmed through. Add fresh coconut sauce if desired.
Note: Fresh mango should be added at the time of serving, as it doesn’t store well once cut.
Mango Sticky Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of sticky rice should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use uncooked sticky rice, also known as glutinous rice. It’s essential for achieving that signature gooey texture that makes Mango Sticky Rice so delectable. Look for the labels in Asian grocery stores or online for true glutinous rice varieties.
How should I store leftover Mango Sticky Rice?
Very! To store your delicious Mango Sticky Rice, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ideally, keep the coconut sauce separate from the rice to prevent it from becoming too soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat the rice gently and add some fresh coconut sauce on top!
Advertisement
Can I freeze Mango Sticky Rice?
Absolutely! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sticky rice for up to 1 month. Make sure to cool the rice completely first, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before gently steaming or microwaving until warmed through.
What if my coconut sauce is too thin?
No worries! If you find your coconut sauce is too thin, you can thicken it with a simple cornstarch slurry. Mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 4 tablespoons of water until smooth, then stir this mixture into the warm coconut sauce while heating. Keep stirring until it thickens to your desired consistency, which typically takes about 1–2 minutes.
Can I make Mango Sticky Rice vegan or gluten-free?
Very! The beauty of this recipe is that it is inherently vegan and gluten-free. Just ensure all your ingredients, especially the sugar, are free from animal products. This allows everyone to indulge in this delightful dessert without worry, making it perfect for various dietary needs.
How can I ensure my mangoes are perfectly ripe?
To achieve the sweetest flavor for your Mango Sticky Rice, choosing ripe mangoes is crucial. Look for mangoes with a slight give when gently squeezed, free of dark spots or blemishes. If they’re still unripe, keep them at room temperature until they soften—this can take several days depending on their initial ripeness. Once ripe, they should be eaten or used quickly to maintain their sweetness and texture!
Mango Sticky Rice: A Simple, Sweet Thai Treat at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the sticky rice under cold water until the water runs clear, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and soak in fresh water for at least 1 hour.
- Place soaked rice in a heatproof bowl in the steamer. Fill with water (not touching rice) and steam for 20-25 minutes until translucent and tender.
- In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, avoiding boiling.
- If thicker sauce is desired, mix cornstarch with water, then stir into warm coconut mixture until thickened.
- Transfer the cooked sticky rice to a bowl and pour 1 cup of coconut sauce over it, mixing gently. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Serve by placing the rice on plates, adding sliced mango on the side, and drizzling with extra coconut sauce and sesame seeds.
