The first bite of this sweet, sticky sensation transports me straight to a bustling Thai market, where the air is fragrant with fresh mangoes and creamy coconut. Mango Sticky Rice is a cherished gem of Thai cuisine, and I’m thrilled to share my homemade version that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a healthier twist on this iconic dessert. With a silky coconut sauce and the perfect chewy texture, you’ll find it’s easier to prepare than you might think—perfect for a cozy family night or a delightful dinner party. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it a versatile addition to any recipe collection. Ready to discover just how simple it is to elevate a classic dessert into a memorable homemade delight? Let’s dive in!
Why is Mango Sticky Rice a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: The recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be made with the most basic cooking skills.
Irresistible Flavor: The creamy richness of coconut sauce paired with sweet, ripe mango makes this dessert a taste sensation.
Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy it warm or cold, and feel free to swap black rice for a unique twist!
Healthier Alternative: Lower in sugar than many restaurant options, this homemade version ensures you indulge without guilt.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Impress your friends and family with this delightful treat—perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in!
Looking for another quick dish? Try One Pan Rice for a flavorful meal!
Mango Sticky Rice Ingredients
For the Sticky Rice
- Sticky Rice – Essential for that chewy, gooey texture; remember to soak it beforehand!
- Full-Fat Coconut Milk – Provides a rich, creamy sauce; both canned and fresh options are great.
- Sugar – The sweetener that brings the dessert to life; white granulated sugar works best for clarity in flavor.
- Salt – Adds a subtle enhancement to the coconut sauce; you can skip it for a low-sodium version.
- Cornstarch (Optional) – Can help thicken the coconut sauce for a creamier consistency.
For the Mango and Garnish
- Ripe Mangoes – Choose soft varieties like Ataulfo or Tommy Atkins for maximum sweetness; avoid green mangoes.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds (Optional) – Adds a lovely nutty flavor and crunch as a garnish; feel free to substitute with coconut flakes for a tropical twist!
This collection of ingredients ensures that your Mango Sticky Rice turns out as delectable as it is in the bustling markets of Thailand!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mango Sticky Rice
Step 1: Prep Sticky Rice
Begin by rinsing the sticky rice under cold water to remove any excess starch. Soak the rice in a bowl of cold water for at least 1 hour or, for the best results, overnight. This soaking process is essential to achieving that signature chewy texture in your Mango Sticky Rice, so don’t skip it!
Step 2: Steam Rice
After soaking, drain the rice and transfer it to a heatproof bowl or a steamer basket lined with cheesecloth. Set the steamer over boiling water and steam the rice for 20-25 minutes. It’s done when the grains appear translucent and chewy. Keep an eye on the water level to ensure there is enough steam throughout the cooking process.
Step 3: Make Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the full-fat coconut milk, sugar, and salt over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar fully dissolves—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to let the mixture boil, as you want to preserve the delicate coconut flavor that enhances your Mango Sticky Rice.
Step 4: Thicken Sauce (if needed)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour this slurry into the warm coconut milk mixture, stirring constantly until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. This should only take a minute or two, resulting in a luxuriously creamy coconut sauce.
Step 5: Combine Rice and Sauce
Once the sticky rice is fully cooked, transfer it to a large serving bowl. Pour about 1 cup of the warm coconut sauce over the rice, and gently fold until it’s well combined. Allow the rice to absorb the sauce for a few minutes; the sticky rice should be moist and coated with the creamy coconut flavor central to Mango Sticky Rice.
Step 6: Serve
Let the Coconut Sticky Rice cool to room temperature before serving. Portion it onto plates alongside slices of ripe mango, drizzling additional coconut sauce on top. If you’d like, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch. This vibrant combination showcases the sweet and savory elements that make Mango Sticky Rice a delightful treat!
Mango Sticky Rice Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your mango sticky rice—each twist brings exciting new flavors or textures that will delight your taste buds!
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Cocoa-Infused: Add unsweetened cocoa powder to the coconut sauce for a dreamy chocolate twist.
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Black Glutinous Rice: Substitute black rice for a dramatic look and earthier flavor! The color contrast with the mango creates a stunning plate.
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Sweetened Condensed Milk: For extra sweetness, drizzle sweetened condensed milk on top of the coconut sauce—live a little!
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Coconut Flakes: Swap toasted sesame seeds for toasted coconut flakes to enhance the tropical vibes of the dish!
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Mango Variations: Experiment with different mango varieties, such as Kent or Haden, for unique sweetness profiles.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some crushed red pepper on top for a zesty heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Nutty Crunch: For added texture, include crushed peanuts or walnuts as a garnish to give the dish a delightful crunch.
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Ginger Zing: Grate some fresh ginger into the sauce for a lively zing that balances the richness of the coconut!
Looking for more inspiring ideas? Try my yummy One Pan Rice for a delightful meal your family will love!
How to Store and Freeze Mango Sticky Rice
Fridge: Store leftover mango sticky rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the coconut sauce separate to maintain texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sticky rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat rice in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture. Microwave the coconut sauce separately until warm, ensuring it’s not boiled.
Serving Tip: For the best experience, serve your mango sticky rice fresh, but proper storage will help you enjoy this delightful dessert later!
Expert Tips for Mango Sticky Rice
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Soak Right: Soaking the sticky rice is essential for that perfect chewy texture. Aim for at least 1-2 hours, or ideally overnight!
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Avoid Boiling Sauce: When making your coconut sauce, keep it over medium heat and avoid boiling. This prevents the delicate flavors from becoming harsh.
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Use Steam Wisely: Utilize a bamboo or standard steamer to cook the rice—direct boiling can make it soggy. Always ensure the pot has enough water.
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Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve Mango Sticky Rice fresh! If you must store, keep the rice and sauce separately, and reheat gently.
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Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust sugar levels depending on the sweetness of your mangoes. This way, you can maintain a balanced flavor in your Mango Sticky Rice!
Make Ahead Options
Mango Sticky Rice is an excellent choice for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious dessert ready to go when you need it. You can soak the sticky rice up to 24 hours in advance, which allows it to achieve that perfect chewy texture. Additionally, the coconut sauce can be prepared two to three days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, steam the rice and mix in the coconut sauce—you’ll enjoy the same delightful flavors without any last-minute fuss. To maintain quality, keep the rice and sauce separate until serving, as this prevents sogginess and preserves texture. Enjoy the ease of having a beloved dessert like Mango Sticky Rice ready with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Fresh Mango Sticky Rice?
Treat yourself to a tropical experience by pairing this delightful dessert with various flavors and textures that complement its sweetness.
- Coconut Sorbet: A refreshing and creamy treat that enhances the tropical flavor profile of the sticky rice.
- Thai Spring Rolls: Crisp and savory, these rolls provide a lovely contrast to the sweet and sticky rice.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of tropical fruits brightens up your dessert and adds extra freshness.
- Mango Smoothie: Blend ripe mango, coconut milk, and ice for a delightful drink that echoes the flavors of the dessert.
Serving this irresistible mango sticky rice at your next gathering? Pair it with sparkling coconut water for a refreshing touch or a lightly sweetened iced tea to elevate the experience!
- Almond Cookies: Crunchy and rich, cookies add a delightful texture and nutty flavor to balance the soft rice.
- Chilled Green Tea: A light, bitter note from this beverage pairs beautifully with the sweet, creamy dessert.
Mango Sticky Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice is best for Mango Sticky Rice?
Absolutely! For the best chewy and gooey texture, stick with glutinous (sticky) rice. I recommend soaking it for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to ensure perfect results. You can also experiment with black glutinous rice for a unique flavor and vibrant color—just soak and steam it the same way!
How should I store leftover Mango Sticky Rice?
Very! To store leftovers, place the mango sticky rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I always keep the coconut sauce in a separate container to avoid the rice becoming too soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just gently reheat the rice with a splash of water to restore moisture.
Can I freeze Mango Sticky Rice?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the room-temperature sticky rice in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then gently reheat it with a little water to bring back its delightful texture.
What should I do if my coconut sauce is too thin?
No worries! If your coconut sauce is too thin, you can thicken it with cornstarch. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly stir this into your warm coconut sauce while heating it gently over medium heat until it reaches your desired consistency. This will give you that luxurious creaminess!
Are there any dietary considerations for Mango Sticky Rice?
The more the merrier! This dessert is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it a perfect choice for those with dietary restrictions. However, be mindful of sugar levels—if there are any allergies to sugar or alternative sweeteners, consider adjusting according to your taste and dietary needs. Always check your coconut milk or cream’s ingredients to ensure they align with your dietary preferences!
Can I use green mangoes instead?
Not really! While any ripe mango variety like Ataulfo or Tommy Atkins works best for a sweet flavor, it’s advisable to avoid green mangoes, as they are typically used in salads and are much more tart. Ripe mangoes paired with the sweet coconut sauce create the beautiful balance you want in this dessert!
Mango Sticky Rice: A Creamy Thai Delight You Can't Resist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the sticky rice under cold water to remove excess starch and soak in cold water for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Drain the rice and steam for 20-25 minutes until grains are translucent and chewy.
- In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
- If needed, thicken sauce by creating a slurry with cornstarch and water, then add to coconut mixture.
- Combine the cooked sticky rice with 1 cup of warm coconut sauce and mix well, allowing rice to absorb the sauce.
- Serve at room temperature with mango slices and drizzle with additional coconut sauce, garnished with sesame seeds.
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