If you have a sweet tooth and a love for tropical flavors, then you are going to adore this recipe. Mango Sticky Rice: The Ultimate Guide to Thailand’s Sweet Treat Recipe captures all the magic of Thailand in a comforting, irresistible dessert. Silky, creamy coconut-infused sticky rice pairs perfectly with the bright, juicy sweetness of ripe mangoes, creating a harmonious dance of flavors and textures that’s both simple and luxurious. Once you try this recipe, it will surely become a family favorite and an excellent way to impress friends with a taste of authentic Thai cuisine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you! The beauty of Mango Sticky Rice: The Ultimate Guide to Thailand’s Sweet Treat Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a distinct role—whether it’s the sticky glutinous rice for that chewy texture or the rich coconut milk bringing luscious creaminess and a hint of sweetness.
- Glutinous rice (sweet rice): The essential base of sticky rice that gives this dessert its unique texture.
- Water for soaking: Helps soften the rice for perfect steaming.
- Full-fat coconut milk: Provides richness and creaminess in both the rice and sauce.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
- Granulated sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness to both the coconut milk and rice.
- Cornstarch mixed with cold water: Thickens the mango sauce to a silky finish.
- Ripe mangoes: The star fruit with vibrant color and juicy sweetness.
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional): Bring a nutty crunch that makes every bite exciting.
How to Make Mango Sticky Rice: The Ultimate Guide to Thailand’s Sweet Treat Recipe
Step 1: Soak and Prepare the Rice
Begin by soaking the glutinous rice in water for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to soften the grains. This allows the rice to steam evenly and develop its signature sticky texture that is the heart of this dessert.
Step 2: Drain and Rinse
After soaking, rinse the rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch for a cleaner taste and ensures the rice won’t clump undesirably when cooked.
Step 3: Steam the Rice
Line your steamer basket with cheesecloth or parchment paper to prevent the rice from falling through. Spread the soaked rice evenly, and steam over boiling water for about 20 to 25 minutes until it becomes tender and translucent. Steaming rather than boiling preserves the ideal sticky texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Coconut Milk Mixture
While the rice steams, gently heat the larger portion of coconut milk with salt and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, making sure not to boil. This fragrant coconut mixture will soak into the rice, imbuing it with creamy sweetness that transforms it from plain to divine.
Step 5: Combine Rice and Coconut Milk
Transfer the hot steamed rice into a bowl and pour the warm coconut milk mixture over it. Fold it gently to coat every grain without mashing. Let this mixture rest for at least 30 minutes, letting the rice soak up all the luscious flavors—you’ll notice a beautiful, glossy texture develop.
Step 6: Make the Mango Sauce
In a smaller saucepan, combine the remaining coconut milk with salt and sugar, heating gently until combined. Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. This silky topping adds richness and a subtle sweetness, elevating the dish’s overall experience.
Step 7: Slice the Mangoes
Peel your ripe mangoes and cut them into thin, even slices. The perfect mango is sweet, fragrant, and soft—not too mushy—to complement the creamy sticky rice flawlessly.
Step 8: Plate and Garnish
Arrange a generous scoop of sticky rice next to the mango slices on a serving plate, then drizzle the warm mango sauce over everything. For an added touch and texture, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or add a mint sprig. This presentation will delight both the eyes and palate.
How to Serve Mango Sticky Rice: The Ultimate Guide to Thailand’s Sweet Treat Recipe
Garnishes
To truly bring this dish to life, consider simple garnishes like toasted sesame seeds for an extra nutty crunch or a fresh mint leaf to add a refreshing aroma. These small touches make a big difference, elevating the dessert from good to spectacular.
Side Dishes
While Mango Sticky Rice often stands beautifully alone, pairing it with light Thai teas or a small bowl of fresh coconut ice cream can enhance the tropical vibe. The coolness and contrasting textures will round out your dessert experience perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the sticky rice in small coconut shell bowls or elegant glass dessert cups to impress your guests. Another fun idea is to layer the sticky rice, mango slices, and coconut sauce for a parfait effect—every spoonful a surprise of flavors and textures.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the sticky rice and mango separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their textures for up to 1-2 days without turning soggy.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for mango sticky rice because the sticky rice’s texture will suffer, becoming hard and unpleasant when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh to savor its perfect creaminess and softness.
Reheating
To reheat the sticky rice, gently warm it in the microwave or steamed over low heat while adding a splash of coconut milk to bring back its luscious consistency. Avoid overheating, as the rice can dry out or become tough quickly.
FAQs
Can I use regular rice instead of glutinous rice?
Regular long-grain rice won’t give you the sticky texture essential to this dish. Glutinous rice is key to achieving the chewy, creamy experience Mango Sticky Rice is famous for.
How do I know when the mango is ripe enough?
A ripe mango should yield slightly to gentle pressure and smell sweet and fragrant at the stem end. Avoid overly soft or fibrous mangoes to maintain the perfect texture balance with the sticky rice.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses coconut milk instead of dairy and relies on plant-based ingredients. Just make sure the sugar you use is vegan-friendly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?
The sticky rice can be prepared earlier and kept warm, but it’s best to add the mango slices and coconut sauce fresh before serving to retain their texture and flavor.
What other fruits can I try with sticky rice?
While mango is classic, you can experiment with ripe durian, jackfruit, or even fresh lychee for a tropical twist. Each offers a unique flavor that pairs wonderfully with creamy coconut sticky rice.
Final Thoughts
Making Mango Sticky Rice: The Ultimate Guide to Thailand’s Sweet Treat Recipe at home might just become your new favorite way to celebrate the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. The joyful blend of sweet mango, silky coconut milk, and tender sticky rice promises a dessert experience that’s both comforting and exotic. So why wait? Grab those mangoes and start steaming that rice—you’re in for a delicious journey straight to Thailand’s heart.
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Mango Sticky Rice: The Ultimate Guide to Thailand’s Sweet Treat Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes (plus 4 hours to overnight soaking)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes steaming + 10 minutes sauce preparation
- Total Time: 45 minutes active + soaking time
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Discover the authentic taste of Thailand with this Mango Sticky Rice recipe, a delightful blend of sweet, creamy coconut-infused glutinous rice paired with ripe, juicy mangoes and a luscious mango sauce. Perfect as a refreshing dessert or a special treat, this guide walks you through soaking, steaming, and flavoring sticky rice to perfection, complemented by a thickened coconut mango sauce and optional toasted sesame seeds for added texture.
Ingredients
Sticky Rice
- 1 ½ cups glutinous rice (sweet rice), also known as sticky rice
- 1 ½ cups water, for soaking
Coconut Milk Mixture for Rice
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Mango Sauce
- ½ can (6.75 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch, mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (slurry)
Other Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Soak the Rice: Place glutinous rice in a large bowl and add 1 ½ cups of water, ensuring the rice is fully submerged. Soak for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, in the refrigerator to soften the grains.
- Drain the Rice: After soaking, drain thoroughly using a fine-mesh sieve. Rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Steam the Rice: Line a steamer basket with cheesecloth or parchment paper and spread the drained rice evenly. Fill the bottom of the steamer with water, ensuring it doesn’t touch the rice.
- Steaming Time: Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then place the basket over the boiling water. Cover tightly and steam for 20-25 minutes until the rice is translucent and tender, adding water as necessary.
- Check for Doneness: Taste a small portion; it should be soft and slightly chewy without hardness. If firm, continue steaming for another 5-10 minutes, checking periodically.
- Prepare Coconut Milk Mixture for Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine 13.5 oz coconut milk, ½ teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Stir well to dissolve.
- Heat the Mixture: Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Do not boil.
- Infuse the Rice: Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl, pour the warm coconut milk mixture over it, and gently fold to coat evenly without mashing the rice.
- Resting Time: Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let the rice absorb the coconut milk for at least 30 minutes, up to 1 hour.
- Prepare Mango Sauce Base: In a small saucepan, combine 6.75 oz coconut milk, ¼ teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Stir to dissolve.
- Create Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water until smooth for thickening.
- Heat and Thicken Sauce: Warm the coconut milk mixture over medium heat until simmering. Slowly pour in slurry while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Simmer Sauce: Continue to simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened, enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Mangoes: Peel and slice ripe mangoes into thin, even pieces while rice is resting and sauce cools.
- Plate the Dessert: Scoop sticky rice onto plates, arrange mango slices alongside, and drizzle with warm mango sauce.
- Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and add fresh mint for color if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Soaking the glutinous rice overnight improves texture and reduces steaming time.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest and most authentic flavor.
- If you don’t have a steamer, use a heatproof plate inside a pot with a lid, ensuring no water touches the rice.
- Adjust sugar according to the sweetness of your mangoes and personal preference.
- To make it vegan and vegetarian friendly, ensure that all ingredients are plant-based, which this recipe naturally is.
- Toast sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan until fragrant for enhanced flavor.
- The resting period is essential for rice to fully absorb coconut milk and develop rich flavor.
