Mango Sticky Rice: A Delicious Thai Dessert Recipe You Must Try

Mango Sticky Rice is a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of tropical flavors and textures. This beloved Thai dish combines sweet, ripe mangoes with creamy coconut-infused sticky rice, creating a harmonious balance that tantalizes the taste buds. As I first tasted this dish during my travels in Thailand, I was instantly captivated by its simplicity and the way it celebrates fresh ingredients. The history of Mango Sticky Rice dates back to the streets of Thailand, where it has been enjoyed for generations, often served during festivals and special occasions.

People love Mango Sticky Rice not only for its exquisite taste but also for its comforting texture. The sticky rice is chewy and satisfying, while the luscious mango adds a refreshing sweetness that makes every bite a joy. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it a favorite for both home cooks and dessert enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a sweet treat, Mango Sticky Rice is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice (also known as sticky rice or sweet rice)
• 1 ½ cups coconut milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
• Sesame seeds or mung beans for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Sticky Rice

1. **Rinse the Rice**: Start by rinsing the glutinous rice under cold water. I usually do this in a fine-mesh strainer or bowl. Rinse until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect sticky texture. 2. **Soak the Rice**: After rinsing, transfer the rice to a bowl and cover it with water. Let it soak for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. Soaking helps the rice grains absorb water, which is essential for cooking them evenly. 3. **Drain the Rice**: Once the soaking time is up, drain the rice in a colander. This will prepare it for steaming. 4. **Prepare the Steamer**: Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. If you have a bamboo steamer, line it with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel to prevent the rice from falling through. If you don’t have a bamboo steamer, you can use a metal steamer basket. 5. **Steam the Rice**: Place the drained rice in the steamer and cover it with the cheesecloth or towel. Steam the rice for about 30-40 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and tender. I like to check it halfway through to ensure it’s cooking evenly.

Making the Coconut Sauce

6. **Combine Ingredients**: While the rice is steaming, it’s time to prepare the coconut sauce. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of coconut milk, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt. 7. **Heat the Mixture**: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Be careful not to let it boil; we just want it warm and combined. 8. **Reserve Some Sauce**: Once the sugar has dissolved, remove about ½ cup of the coconut sauce and set it aside for drizzling later. This will be the finishing touch for our mango sticky rice. 9. **Thicken the Sauce**: Continue to heat the remaining coconut sauce for another 5-10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Once it reaches a slightly thicker consistency, remove it from the heat.

Combining the Rice and Coconut Sauce

10. **Mix the Rice and Sauce**: Once the sticky rice is done steaming, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the thickened coconut sauce over the rice and gently fold it in. I like to use a spatula to ensure that all the rice is coated evenly. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the flavors.

Preparing the Mango

11. **Slice the Mangoes**: While the rice is absorbing the coconut sauce, take your ripe mangoes. Cut them in half, remove the pit, and slice them into thin wedges. I find that using a sharp knife makes this process much easier. 12. **Arrange the Mango**: Once sliced, arrange the mango pieces on a serving plate. You can fan them out for a beautiful presentation.

Assembling the Dish

13. **Plate the Sticky Rice**: Take a serving of the sticky rice and place it on the plate next to the mango slices. I usually use a small bowl or mold to shape the rice, giving it a nice presentation. 14. **Drizzle with Coconut Sauce**: Take the reserved coconut sauce and drizzle it generously over the sticky rice. This adds a lovely shine and extra flavor. 15. **Garnish**: If you like, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or mung beans on top for a bit of crunch and visual appeal. This step is optional, but it adds a nice touch.

Serving Suggestions

16. **Serve Warm or Room Temperature**: Mango sticky rice can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. I personally prefer it warm, as the flavors are more pronounced. 17. **Enjoy**: Grab a spoon and dig in! The combination of sweet mango, creamy coconut sauce, and sticky rice is simply irresistible.

Storage Tips

18. **Store Leftovers**:

Conclusion:

In summary, this Mango Sticky Rice recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The creamy coconut milk perfectly complements the sweet, ripe mango, while the sticky rice provides a satisfying chewiness that ties everything together. It’s a dessert that not only looks beautiful on the plate but also tastes heavenly, making it perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home. For serving suggestions, I recommend garnishing your Mango Sticky Rice with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a few mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness. You can also experiment with variations by adding a drizzle of coconut cream on top or incorporating other fruits like bananas or strawberries for a twist on the classic recipe. I truly encourage you to give this Mango Sticky Rice a try! It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that will surely impress your family and friends. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience—feel free to share your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite of this delightful treat!

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