Why You’ll Love Mango Sticky Rice
Mango Sticky Rice, or Khao Niew Mamuang in Thai, is a traditional Southeast Asian dessert made with glutinous rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk. The slightly salty and sweet coconut-flavored sticky rice pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the ripe mango, creating an irresistible harmony of flavors. This dish is refreshing, light, and perfect for summer days when mangoes are in peak season.
Ingredients for Mango Sticky Rice
To make this classic dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Sticky Rice:
- 1 cup glutinous rice (also known as sticky rice or sweet rice)
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for a rich flavor)
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Coconut Sauce:
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For Serving:
- 1-2 ripe mangoes (peeled and sliced)
- Toasted sesame seeds or mung beans (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Mango Sticky Rice
1. Soak & Steam the Rice
Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 2-4 hours or overnight to achieve the best texture. Once soaked, drain the rice.
Traditionally, the rice is steamed in a bamboo steamer or a regular steaming basket lined with cheesecloth for about 20-25 minutes until it becomes tender and translucent. You can also cook it in a rice cooker using the « sticky rice » setting if available.
2. Prepare the Coconut Milk Mixture
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of coconut milk, ⅓ cup sugar, and ¼ tsp salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer and the sugar dissolves. Do not let it boil. Once done, remove from heat.
3. Mix the Sticky Rice with Coconut Milk
Once the rice is fully cooked, transfer it to a bowl and pour the warm coconut milk mixture over the rice. Gently fold the mixture to combine until the rice has absorbed all the coconut milk. Cover and let it sit for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and for the rice to become creamy.
4. Make the Coconut Sauce
In a saucepan, combine ½ cup coconut milk, 1 tbsp sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat until the sugar dissolves. If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 tsp of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then add it to the coconut sauce and stir until thickened.
5. Serve the Mango Sticky Rice
To serve, place a portion of the sticky rice on a plate or a banana leaf for a traditional touch. Arrange slices of fresh mango on the side. Drizzle the coconut sauce over the sticky rice, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds or mung beans for added crunch.
Tips for the Best Mango Sticky Rice
- Choose the Right Rice: Glutinous rice, also known as sticky rice or sweet rice, is essential for this recipe. Regular rice won’t give you the right texture.
- Use Ripe Mangoes: The sweeter and juicier the mango, the better your dessert will taste. Go for varieties like Ataulfo or Kent mangoes for their buttery and sweet flesh.
- Don’t Overcook the Coconut Sauce: When preparing the coconut sauce, avoid boiling it. Boiling can cause the sauce to split and become grainy.
- Toast Your Garnish: Toasted sesame seeds or crispy mung beans add a delightful crunch to this dessert. Toast them lightly in a pan until fragrant before sprinkling on top.
Health Benefits of Mango Sticky Rice
Mango Sticky Rice is a great way to enjoy a tropical dessert while benefiting from its natural ingredients:
- Mango is packed with vitamins, including Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and antioxidants, which promote healthy skin and immune function.
- Coconut milk contains healthy fats that can provide energy and add a creamy texture to the dessert.
- Glutinous rice is a good source of carbohydrates and has a chewy, satisfying texture.
While it is a sweet treat, mango sticky rice uses simple and fresh ingredients, making it a healthier choice than many processed desserts.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular rice for this recipe?
A: Unfortunately, no. The sticky, chewy texture of glutinous rice is what makes this dish unique. Regular rice does not have the same sticky properties and will not yield the desired texture.
Q: How do I store leftover mango sticky rice?
A: Store the sticky rice and coconut sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sticky rice may harden in the fridge, so reheat it gently in the microwave or steam it before serving.
Q: Can I make the sticky rice ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the sticky rice and coconut sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the rice, and combine it with the coconut milk sauce.
Variations of Mango Sticky Rice
- Pandan Flavored Sticky Rice: Add pandan leaves or pandan extract to the coconut milk mixture for an aromatic twist that gives a vibrant green color and flavor to the sticky rice.
- Mixed Fruits Sticky Rice: Instead of only mango, serve the sticky rice with other tropical fruits like pineapple, lychee, or papaya.
- Coconut Flakes Garnish: For a crunchy twist, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the sticky rice before serving.
Wrapping It Up
Mango Sticky Rice is a sweet, creamy, and fragrant dessert that brings together the best flavors of Southeast Asia. The combination of sticky rice, coconut milk, and ripe mango creates a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to Thai desserts or have been enjoying them for years, this easy-to-follow recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and your guests.
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Enjoy your dessert and happy cooking! 🥭🍚