As I strolled through a bustling Thai market, the sweet aroma of ripe mangoes hung in the air, drawing me toward a charming stall. There, I discovered the magic of Mango Sticky Rice, a traditional Thai dessert that perfectly balances creamy, rich coconut with the tender chew of sticky rice and the vibrant sweetness of fresh mango slices. This delightful recipe is not only easy to prepare but also gluten-free, making it an ideal choice for anyone craving a fresh, homemade treat. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply seeking a comforting dessert, Mango Sticky Rice is sure to impress. Ready to explore this deliciously simple recipe that captures the essence of summer in every bite? Why is Mango Sticky Rice a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavor: The sweet, ripe mango combined with rich, creamy coconut creates a dessert that dances on your palate. Quick and Easy: This recipe allows you to whip up a traditional Thai treat in just a few steps, ideal for busy home cooks. Gluten-Free Delight: Enjoy a dessert that accommodates various dietary needs while still nurturing your sweet tooth. Refreshing and Light: Perfect for warm days, Mango Sticky Rice provides a satisfying finish to any meal without feeling heavy. Versatile Servings: Dress it up for gatherings or enjoy it alone—this dessert is as adaptable as your cravings! Once you try this recipe, you might just find it rivals other favorites like Honey Butter Rice or Corn Chicken Rice, making it a new staple in your kitchen. Get ready to indulge! Mango Sticky Rice Ingredients • Discover all the essentials to create this delightful Thai dessert! For the Sticky Rice Thai Sticky Rice – Soak before cooking to achieve that perfect chewy texture. For the Coconut Sauce Full-Fat Coconut Milk – Adds rich creaminess; using light coconut milk will alter the dessert’s texture. Granulated Sugar – Adjust sweetness based on mango ripeness; it helps balance the flavors in your Mango Sticky Rice. Salt – A pinch enhances the overall taste; it’s essential for that sweet-savory balance. Corn Starch – Thicken your coconut cream for a luscious topping; arrowroot starch works as a great substitute if needed. For Assembly Ataúlfo Mangoes – These are the stars of the dish, bringing freshness and sweetness; ideal for optimal flavor and texture. Toasted White Sesame Seeds – Use as an optional garnish for added crunch and visual appeal. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mango Sticky Rice Step 1: Prep Rice Rinse the Thai sticky rice under cold water for about 3–4 times until the water runs clear, ensuring any excess starch is removed. Then, soak the rice in cold water for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results. After soaking, drain the rice and steam it in a sieve or bamboo steamer over simmering water for approximately 15 minutes, until it appears translucent and tender. Step 2: Coconut Mixture While the sticky rice is steaming, prepare the coconut sauce for your Mango Sticky Rice. In a small pot, combine 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk with 6 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gently heat the mixture over low-medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Keep the mixture warm with a lid, ensuring it doesn’t boil. Step 3: Combine Rice Once the sticky rice is fully cooked, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Gradually pour in the warm coconut mixture, using a spatula to gently fold it into the rice. This process allows the rice to absorb the coconut flavor. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit for about 30 minutes, allowing the sticky rice to become soft and flavorful. Step 4: Coconut Cream In a saucepan, heat the remaining 3/4 cup of coconut milk over medium heat. Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor, and bring it just to a gentle simmer. Slowly sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of corn starch, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool to thicken further. Step 5: Assemble To serve your Mango Sticky Rice, layer a generous portion of the sticky rice onto a plate. Neatly arrange sliced Ataúlfo mangoes atop the rice, allowing their natural sweetness to shine. Drizzle the thickened coconut cream over the top, and for an added touch, sprinkle toasted white sesame seeds for crunch before enjoying this delightful Thai dessert. How to Store and Freeze Mango Sticky Rice Fridge: Store any leftover Mango Sticky Rice in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the rice and coconut cream separate to maintain their perfect textures. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sticky rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Reheat the sticky rice in a steamer or microwave, covered with a damp paper towel, until warmed through. Add a splash of coconut milk to revive creaminess if needed. Serving Notes: Serve the thawed rice with freshly sliced mango and a drizzle of coconut cream for that delightful fresh taste! What to Serve with Mango Sticky Rice? Enhance your Mango Sticky Rice experience with these delightful pairings that will create a well-rounded meal. Crispy Spring Rolls: The crunch of fresh vegetables wrapped in thin rice paper complements the creamy sweetness of the dessert. Thai Coconut Soup: A warm and fragrant broth with notes of lemongrass and lime offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sticky rice. Indulge in the world of Thai flavors by serving them together. The warm soup balances the cool, rich dessert, creating harmony on your palate. Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh tropical fruits like pineapple and papaya adds brightness and acidity, enhancing the sweetness of the Mango Sticky Rice. Thai Iced Tea: The creamy, spiced richness of this beverage acts as a perfect accompaniment, mirroring the coconut flavors in your dessert. Both of these additions create a vibrant, refreshing theme, making your meal feel festive and exotic. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinated shrimp, char-grilled for smoky flavor, provide a savory touch that balances the sweetness of the sticky rice. Chili Lime Chicken: Spicy and zesty, this chicken dish brings a delightful kick that contrasts beautifully with the coconut cream and mango flavors. These savory dishes bring out the best in each other, creating a meal that is truly unforgettable. Expert Tips for Mango Sticky Rice Soaking is Key: Soak the sticky rice overnight for ultimate texture; this ensures even cooking and that delightful chewiness. Coconut Care: Keep the coconut mixture warm but not boiling; burning can ruin the creaminess of your Mango Sticky Rice, so stir it constantly. Taste as You Go: Adjust your sugar depending on the sweetness of the mangoes; this balance is crucial for an unforgettable dessert. Control the Thickness: If your coconut cream is too thin, let it simmer longer while whisking; it should be rich and luscious, perfect for drizzling. Garnish Wisely: Don’t skip the sesame seeds! They provide a beautiful touch of crunch to contrast the smooth rice and cream, elevating every bite. Mango Sticky Rice Variations & Substitutions Feel free to make this delightful dessert your own with these simple variations! Different Mango Varieties: Swap Ataúlfo mangoes for Haden or Tommy Atkins to explore new flavor profiles. Each variety brings a unique sweetness that elevates your dish. Light Coconut Milk: For a lighter version, use light coconut milk in place of full-fat. It will result in a slightly different texture, but will still be deliciously satisfying. Nutty Topper: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes for extra crunch and a delightful nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness. Dairy-Free Option: Use oat or almond milk instead of coconut milk for a nutty twist. The dish won’t be as traditional, but it’s a great alternative for those with dairy restrictions! Infused Coconut Cream: Add a hint of pandan or vanilla extract to the coconut cream for a fragrant enhancement. This twist takes the flavor to a whole new level, giving a deeper profile that complements the mango perfectly. Thai Basil Garnish: Add a few leaves of fresh Thai basil or mint to elevate the flavor and add a pop of freshness. The herbal notes provide a beautiful contrast to the dessert’s sweetness. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of chili powder to the coconut cream. Just a hint will give your Mango Sticky Rice an unexpected but delightful kick! Looking to expand your culinary repertoire? You might enjoy trying out Beef Pepper Rice for a savory bite or serve this sticky treat alongside Honey Butter Rice for a sweet finale. Enjoy making it uniquely yours! Make Ahead Options Mango Sticky Rice is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sticky rice up to 24 hours in advance by soaking it overnight, cooking it, and then mixing it with the coconut mixture to allow the flavors to meld. Simply store the rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The coconut cream can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just reheat gently before serving to maintain its creamy texture. When it’s time to enjoy your dessert, assemble by layering the sticky rice, adding fresh mango slices, and drizzling the warmed coconut cream on top for that fresh, restaurant-quality treat with minimal effort. Mango Sticky Rice Recipe FAQs What type of mangoes should I use for Mango Sticky Rice? I recommend using Ataúlfo mangoes for their incredible sweetness and creamy texture, which complements the sticky rice perfectly. If you can’t find them, Haden or Tommy Atkins mangoes are good alternatives, but make sure they are ripe for the best flavor! How should I store leftover Mango Sticky Rice? Leftover Mango Sticky Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain the dessert’s texture, it’s best to keep the sticky rice and coconut cream separate. This prevents the rice from becoming too soggy and the cream from losing its luscious thickness. Can I freeze Mango Sticky Rice? Absolutely! You can freeze the sticky rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the sticky rice in a steamer or microwave, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Add a splash of coconut milk while reheating to restore its creaminess! What are some common mistakes to avoid when making Mango Sticky Rice? One common mistake is not soaking the sticky rice long enough, which can lead to uneven cooking and a less chewy texture. Aim to soak it for at least 1 hour or ideally, overnight. Additionally, be cautious with the coconut milk; heating it too quickly can result in burning. Stir constantly while heating to keep it smooth and creamy! Is Mango Sticky Rice suitable for people with dietary restrictions? Yes! Mango Sticky Rice is gluten-free due to the main ingredient being sticky rice, and it doesn’t contain any nuts unless you choose to add sesame seeds or other toppings. However, if you have dairy restrictions, be aware that full-fat coconut milk is quite rich; you may consider using a light coconut milk, although it will alter the dish’s creaminess. How can I adjust the sweetness of my Mango Sticky Rice? The sweetness of your Mango Sticky Rice can be adjusted by tasting as you go! Start with the suggested sugar amount and add more if your mangoes are less ripe. Because mango ripeness varies, a good rule of thumb is to taste your coconut sauce before mixing it with the rice, allowing you to find that perfect balance between sweet and creamy! Mango Sticky Rice: The Creamy Thai Dessert You’ll Love This Mango Sticky Rice recipe features creamy coconut and sweet mango in a delightful gluten-free dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsResting Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DessertCuisine: ThaiCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sticky Rice1 cup Thai Sticky Rice Soak before cooking to achieve that perfect chewy texture.For the Coconut Sauce1 cup Full-Fat Coconut Milk Adds rich creaminess; using light coconut milk will alter the dessert's texture.6 tablespoons Granulated Sugar Adjust sweetness based on mango ripeness.1/4 teaspoon Salt Enhances the overall taste.1 tablespoon Corn Starch Thicken your coconut cream for a luscious topping.For Assembly2 medium Ataúlfo Mangoes Bringing freshness and sweetness; ideal for optimal flavor and texture.2 tablespoons Toasted White Sesame Seeds Use as an optional garnish. Equipment bamboo steamermixing bowlSmall potsaucepan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsRinse the Thai sticky rice under cold water for about 3–4 times until the water runs clear. Soak in cold water for at least 1 hour or overnight. After soaking, drain the rice and steam it in a sieve over simmering water for approximately 15 minutes until tender.In a small pot, combine 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk with 6 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gently heat until the sugar dissolves and keep warm.Once the sticky rice is fully cooked, transfer it to a mixing bowl and fold in the warm coconut mixture. Cover with a kitchen towel and let sit for about 30 minutes.In a saucepan, heat the remaining 3/4 cup of coconut milk with 1/4 teaspoon of salt until it simmers. Add 1 tablespoon of corn starch slowly, whisking until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.Serve by layering the sticky rice on a plate, arranging sliced Ataúlfo mangoes on top, drizzling with thickened coconut cream, and sprinkling toasted sesame seeds before enjoying. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 100mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, keeping rice and coconut cream separate. For longer storage, freeze in a container for up to 1 month, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
