Mango Sticky Rice

Introduction

Mango Sticky Rice is a beloved Thai dessert that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the sweet, juicy flavor of ripe mangoes. This simple yet indulgent dish features glutinous rice that’s perfectly sticky, topped with a sweet coconut sauce and fresh mango slices. The balance of warm, sweet, and creamy flavors paired with the soft, chewy rice creates a truly satisfying experience.

I remember the first time I made this at home, and the kitchen was filled with the irresistible aroma of coconut milk and ripe mangoes. The rich coconut sauce drizzled over the sticky rice adds a comforting sweetness, while the fresh mangoes bring a burst of tropical flavor to each bite.

What’s so wonderful about Mango Sticky Rice is how easy it is to make, yet it feels like a luxurious treat. It’s perfect for enjoying on a warm evening or for impressing guests at a dinner party. Whether you’re indulging in it as a dessert or a special treat, Mango Sticky Rice is sure to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.

Perfect for:

• Summer desserts
• Thai-inspired meals
• Dinner parties
• Special occasions
• Fruit and coconut lovers

Why You’ll Love This Mango Sticky Rice

Here’s why Mango Sticky Rice will become your favorite dessert:

• Creamy Coconut Sauce: The coconut milk adds richness and depth, making this dessert feel indulgent without being too heavy.
• Sweet and Fragrant Mango: The natural sweetness and fragrance of ripe mangoes bring a refreshing contrast to the creamy coconut rice.
• Perfectly Sticky Rice: The sticky rice is soft and chewy, absorbing the sweet coconut milk and creating a satisfying texture.
• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients, this dish is simple to prepare yet impressive in both flavor and presentation.
• Versatile and Customizable: While the traditional recipe is beloved, you can customize the sweetness or even experiment with different fruits or toppings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Carbs: 50g, Fat: 8g, Protein: 3g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Mango Sticky Rice:

• 1 cup glutinous rice (also called sticky rice or sweet rice)
• 1 ½ cups coconut milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or mung beans (optional, for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Glutinous Rice: This type of rice is essential for creating the sticky texture that gives the dish its name. It’s different from regular rice and should be soaked before cooking for the best results.
• Coconut Milk: The coconut milk provides richness and creaminess, which is key to the smooth, velvety texture of the sticky rice.
• Mangoes: Choose ripe, sweet mangoes for the best flavor. The natural sweetness of the mango complements the richness of the coconut rice perfectly.
• Sugar and Salt: A small amount of sugar sweetens the coconut milk sauce, while salt helps balance the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Mango Sticky Rice:

Prepare the Sticky Rice:

1. Soak the Rice: Place the glutinous rice in a large bowl and cover it with water. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer it soaks, the stickier it will be.
2. Cook the Rice: Drain the soaked rice and transfer it to a bamboo or metal steamer lined with cheesecloth. Steam the rice over simmering water for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and sticky. If you don’t have a steamer, you can also cook it in a rice cooker, but steaming is traditional for the best texture.
3. Prepare the Coconut Sauce: While the rice is cooking, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is heated through (do not boil). If desired, add vanilla extract for extra flavor. Set aside.

Assemble the Dessert:

4. Combine the Rice and Coconut Sauce: Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large mixing bowl and pour about 1 cup of the coconut sauce over it. Stir gently to coat the rice with the sauce. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the coconut milk.
5. Prepare the Mangoes: While the rice is soaking up the coconut sauce, peel and slice the mangoes. You can slice them into thin strips or cut them into cubes, depending on your preference.
6. Serve: Spoon a portion of the sticky rice onto a serving plate, and arrange the mango slices alongside it. Drizzle the remaining coconut sauce over the top of the rice, and garnish with sesame seeds or mung beans, if desired.

How to Serve Mango Sticky Rice

Mango Sticky Rice is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways:

• Traditional Style: Serve the sticky rice in small portions, alongside fresh mango slices and a drizzle of coconut sauce.
• As a Side Dish: In some variations, Mango Sticky Rice is served as a side to a savory meal, especially in Thai cuisine.
• For a Special Occasion: Serve this dish as part of a tropical-themed dessert table or at a summer gathering to impress your guests.
• With a Tropical Drink: Pair the dessert with a refreshing coconut drink or iced tea for a complete tropical experience.

Additional Tips for Mango Sticky Rice

Here are some tips to ensure your Mango Sticky Rice is perfect every time:

• Soak the Rice Properly: Be sure to soak the glutinous rice long enough to achieve the best texture. Soaking helps the rice absorb the coconut milk.
• Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk will give you the richest, creamiest texture for your coconut sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Rice: Glutinous rice should remain firm yet sticky, so avoid overcooking it, which can cause it to become mushy.
• Serve Immediately or Within 4-5 Hours: Mango Sticky Rice is best enjoyed fresh. If left for too long, the rice may lose its sticky texture.
• Chill the Rice for Cold Serving: If you prefer a cold version of this dessert, you can refrigerate the sticky rice after it’s mixed with the coconut sauce.

Recipe Variations for Mango Sticky Rice

Here are 10 variations you can try for Mango Sticky Rice:

• Coconut Sticky Rice with Lychee: Replace mangoes with fresh lychee for a different tropical twist.
• Sticky Rice with Coconut and Pineapple: Add fresh pineapple chunks for a tangy and sweet contrast.
• Sticky Rice with Passion Fruit: Garnish with fresh passion fruit pulp for a tangy, exotic flavor.
• Black Sesame Mango Sticky Rice: Add a sprinkle of black sesame seeds for a unique flavor and visual contrast.
• Mango Sticky Rice with Ice Cream: Serve the sticky rice with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Sticky Rice with Mango and Coconut Cream: Add extra coconut cream on top for a richer, more luxurious version of the dessert.
• Gluten-Free Sticky Rice: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
• Sticky Rice with Fresh Berries: Top the sticky rice with fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a colorful variation.
• Vegan Mango Sticky Rice: Ensure that all ingredients, including sugar, are plant-based to make this dessert vegan-friendly.
• Mango Sticky Rice with Sweetened Red Bean Paste: For an added twist, try adding a small dollop of sweetened red bean paste on top of the rice.

Freezing and Storage for Mango Sticky Rice

• Freezing: This dessert does not freeze well, as the rice can become hard and lose its texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the sticky rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently before serving.

Special Equipment for Mango Sticky Rice

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Mango Sticky Rice easier:

• Steamer Basket: A bamboo or metal steamer basket is essential for cooking the glutinous rice properly.
• Cheesecloth: Line the steamer basket with cheesecloth to prevent the rice from sticking.
• Small Saucepan: For heating the coconut milk and making the coconut sauce.
• Sharp Knife: For peeling and slicing the mangoes.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure the right proportions of coconut milk, sugar, and salt.
• Serving Plates: Use small plates or bowls to serve individual portions of this dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions for Mango Sticky Rice

1. Can I use regular rice instead of glutinous rice?
   No, glutinous rice is essential for the sticky texture of this dessert. Regular rice won’t provide the same consistency.
2. Can I make this dessert in advance?
   It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the coconut sauce and rice in advance, and assemble the dessert just before serving.
3. Can I use canned mangoes?
   Fresh, ripe mangoes are preferred for the best flavor and texture, but canned mangoes can be used in a pinch.
4. Can I make this dish with other fruits?
   Yes, you can experiment with other tropical fruits like papaya or lychee for a variation on the classic recipe.
5. Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
   Yes, this dessert is naturally gluten-free as long as the ingredients are confirmed gluten-free.

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Conclusion

This recipe is a tropical delight that brings together the rich flavors of coconut milk, sweet sticky rice, and juicy, ripe mangoes. The creamy texture of the coconut-infused rice pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the mango, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s simple to make yet feels incredibly special, making it perfect for everything from casual dinners to festive celebrations.

Whether you’re savoring it as a treat on a warm day or as a sweet ending to a Thai-inspired meal, Mango Sticky Rice is sure to transport your taste buds straight to paradise.

I’d love to see how your Mango Sticky Rice turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your tropical creations. Happy cooking!