Mango Sticky Rice

Introduction

When it comes to indulging in something exotic, few desserts can rival the sweet, creamy goodness of Mango Sticky Rice. A traditional Thai treat, this dessert combines the richness of coconut milk with the natural sweetness of ripe mango, all atop soft, sticky rice. It’s a simple yet luxurious dish that is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking to add something unique to a dinner party or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary.

What’s wonderful about Mango Sticky Rice is that it’s surprisingly easy to make, and it only requires a few ingredients. With just sticky rice, coconut milk, sugar, and the star of the show—mangoes—you can create an unforgettable dessert. The contrast between the warm rice and the cold, juicy mangoes is pure perfection, and when paired with the creamy coconut sauce, it creates a taste that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

If you’ve never tried this dessert before, you’re in for a treat! And for those who’ve had it, you’ll know that once you’ve had a perfect Mango Sticky Rice, nothing else quite compares. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are just a few reasons why Mango Sticky Rice is so beloved:

• Unique Flavor Profile: The tropical combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut rice is a flavor unlike anything else.
• Easy to Make: While the dish is impressive, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare with just a few ingredients.
• Perfect for Any Season: Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing summer dessert or something comforting for a cozy night, this dish is a winner year-round.
• Visually Stunning: The vibrant yellow mango slices atop the white sticky rice are a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
• Naturally Sweet: With the mango and coconut milk adding natural sweetness, there’s no need for heavy syrups or artificial sweeteners.
• Customizable: You can adjust the amount of sweetness to suit your personal preference and experiment with garnishes.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Resting Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fiber: 2g, Fat: 15g, Carbohydrates: 50g, Protein: 4g

Ingredients

To make this tropical treat, gather the following ingredients:

For the Sticky Rice:

• 1 cup sticky rice (also known as glutinous rice)
• 1 1/4 cups water (for soaking the rice)
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• A pinch of salt

the Mangoes:

• 2 ripe mangoes (preferably Ataulfo or any other sweet, soft variety)

For the Coconut Sauce:

• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• A pinch of salt (optional, for added balance)

Garnishes (Optional):

• Sesame seeds or mung beans (optional for a little crunch)
• A few mint leaves for garnish (optional, for a touch of color)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through the process of making your own Mango Sticky Rice:

1: Soak the Sticky Rice

1. Rinse the Rice: Begin by rinsing the sticky rice thoroughly under cold water. This removes excess starch and helps the rice cook properly.
2. Soak the Rice: Place the rice in a bowl and cover it with water. Let it soak for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving the sticky texture.

2: Steam the Rice

1. Prepare the Steamer: While the rice soaks, prepare a steamer. You can use a traditional bamboo steamer or a metal one. Bring water to a boil in the bottom part of the steamer.
2. Steam the Rice: Once soaked, drain the rice and transfer it to the steamer basket. Cover and steam for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender but still firm to the bite.

3: Make the Coconut Sauce

1. Combine Coconut Milk and Sugar: In a small saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt (optional). Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Do not bring it to a boil; you just want to warm it up.
2. Pour Over Rice: Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and pour the coconut sauce over the warm rice. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the rice absorbs the coconut flavor. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes so the flavors meld together.

4: Prepare the Mangoes

1. Peel and Slice the Mangoes: Peel the mangoes carefully, then slice them into thin, even slices. You can do this by cutting along both sides of the pit and then slicing the flesh into thin strips. Arrange the slices on top of the coconut sticky rice.

5: Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the Sticky Rice: Spoon the sticky rice onto serving plates. Make sure to mound it a bit, as this gives it a nice presentation.
2. Top with Mango: Arrange the mango slices on top of the rice, fanning them out beautifully.
3. Finish with Coconut Sauce: Drizzle a bit more coconut sauce over the top of the rice for extra creaminess.
4. Optional Garnishes: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, mung beans, or a mint leaf for a touch of elegance.

How to Serve

Mango Sticky Rice is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. Here are some ways to present it:

1. Serve as a Light Dessert: This dish makes for a perfect end to a Thai meal or any other Asian-inspired dinner.
2. Individual Portions: Plate individual servings for a more elegant presentation, perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
3. Buffet Style: For a casual gathering, serve a large dish with a ladle, allowing guests to help themselves.
4. With a Side of Coconut Milk: For an extra indulgent treat, serve with additional coconut milk on the side for those who prefer a richer texture.
5. As Part of a Thai-Inspired Meal: Pair it with other Thai dishes such as Pad Thai or Tom Yum Soup for a full Thai experience.

Additional Tips

These tips will help ensure your Mango Sticky Rice turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use the Right Rice: Sticky rice (also known as glutinous rice) is key to getting the right texture. Don’t substitute with regular rice.
2. Don’t Overcook the Rice: Steaming is the best method for cooking sticky rice, as it ensures the grains stay tender but sticky. Avoid boiling or microwaving it.
3. Let the Rice Rest: Allow the rice to sit after adding the coconut sauce. This lets the rice absorb all the flavors.
4. Choose Sweet Mangoes: The quality of mangoes is crucial in this dish. Make sure to pick ripe, sweet mangoes for the best taste.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the sticky rice and coconut sauce ahead of time. Just reheat the rice gently before serving, and add the fresh mango slices just before plating.
6. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the coconut sauce before adding it to the rice and adjust the sugar to your liking. Some prefer it sweeter, while others may want a subtler flavor.

Recipe Variations

You can switch things up and experiment with different variations of Mango Sticky Rice:

• Add a Tropical Twist: Top with other tropical fruits like pineapple, papaya, or dragon fruit for a more exotic flavor.
• Coconut Cream Drizzle: For an extra creamy topping, drizzle a little coconut cream on top of the mango slices.
• Make It Vegan: This dish is already vegan-friendly, but you can add a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a few chopped cashews for added texture.
• Infuse the Rice: Try infusing the sticky rice with a bit of pandan leaf while steaming for a fragrant twist.
• Coconut Milk Ice Cream: Serve the mango sticky rice alongside a scoop of coconut milk ice cream for an indulgent dessert combo.

Freezing and Storage

To keep your Mango Sticky Rice fresh:

• Storage: Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat the rice by steaming it again or microwaving it with a little coconut milk to restore its creaminess.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for the rice as it can change the texture, but you can freeze the mango slices separately if necessary. Just be sure to defrost them before serving.

Special Equipment

To make your Mango Sticky Rice, you may need the following tools:

• Steamer: A bamboo or metal steamer works best for cooking sticky rice.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For slicing the mangoes.
• Small Saucepan: For warming the coconut milk and sugar.
• Serving Plates: To plate your dessert beautifully.

FAQ Section

Mango Sticky Rice is a beloved dessert, but you might have some questions about how to make it just right or how to adjust it to your taste. Here are some frequently asked questions that can help clear up any doubts and make sure your dish turns out perfect every time!

Can I use regular rice instead of sticky rice?

Sticky rice is key to getting the authentic texture of Mango Sticky Rice. It has a unique sticky and chewy consistency that regular rice doesn’t provide, so I highly recommend using glutinous rice for the best results.

What type of mango is best for this dessert?

Ataulfo mangoes, also known as Honey or Champagne mangoes, are the best choice because they are sweet, tender, and have a smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the sticky rice. However, any ripe, sweet mango variety will work.

Print

Mango Sticky Rice is a stunning, tropical dessert that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Thailand. It’s simple, beautiful, and incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect treat to impress guests or simply indulge in after a long day. I hope you give it a try—there’s something magical about that combination of coconut milk, sticky rice, and sweet mango. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media – I love seeing your delicious creations!