Every time I savor a bite of Mango Sticky Rice, I’m transported to sun-soaked beaches and vibrant markets. The tropical aroma of coconut mingles with the sweetness of ripe mangoes, creating a blissful harmony that feels both indulgent and nostalgic. I stumbled upon this delectable dessert during a trip to Thailand, where the street vendors flaunted their beautiful creations. Determined to recreate that magic at home, I found that this simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for those craving something wholesome over fast food.
Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening in, this Mango Sticky Rice recipe is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. With a velvety coconut sauce drizzled over sticky rice and fresh mango slices, it shines as both a crowd-pleaser and an intimate treat for yourself. As we dive into the easy steps for making your own, get ready to impress your taste buds and embrace the joy of homemade goodness.
Why is this Mango Sticky Rice Recipe a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for novice cooks.
Tropical Delight: Each bite transports you to a sun-soaked paradise with the fragrant aroma of coconut and sweet mango.
Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from summer BBQs to intimate dinners, this dish adapts effortlessly to your needs.
Indulgent Yet Light: The creamy coconut sauce enhances the sticky rice without overwhelming your palate—pure bliss!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress friends and family with this stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes.
For more delightful desserts, check out our homemade treats collection to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Mango Sticky Rice Recipe Ingredients
• Let’s gather the essentials for this delightful treat!
For the Rice
- Sticky rice – The base of this dish, providing that delightful chewiness.
- Water – To soak and cook the rice to perfection.
- Full-fat coconut milk – Adds a rich creaminess that elevates the flavor and texture.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens up the rice, making it irresistible!
For the Coconut Sauce
- Coconut milk – Enhances the creamy sauce; consider light coconut milk for a lighter option.
- Granulated sugar – Balances the richness of the coconut milk; adjust to your taste preference.
- Cornflour – Helps thicken the sauce for a luscious consistency.
- Sesame seeds – Adds a delightful crunch for contrast.
- Poppy seeds – Offers a pop of flavor and visual appeal.
For the Topping
- Ripe mangoes – The star of the dish; choose sweet and juicy ones for the perfect finish.
Get ready to savor the magic of this Mango Sticky Rice Recipe as you prepare to create a truly enchanting dessert!
How to Make Mango Sticky Rice
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Rinse the sticky rice under cold water until the water turns clear. This removes excess starch, ensuring the rice cooks up fluffy and tender.
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Soak the rice by combining it with water in a pot. Allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving that desired chewy texture.
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Boil the mixture by adding coconut milk and sugar to the soaked rice. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, letting the tropical aromas fill your kitchen.
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Simmer the rice by reducing the heat, covering the pot, and cooking for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is glossy and fragrant!
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Prepare the coconut sauce by combining coconut milk, sugar, cornflour, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds in a separate saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened, resembling silky cream.
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Slice the ripe mangoes after peeling them, ensuring they are juicy and perfectly sweet for topping your dessert.
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Serve the warm coconut rice drizzled with the luscious coconut sauce and topped with beautiful mango slices. Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors!
Optional: Sprinkle extra sesame seeds on top for added texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Mango Sticky Rice
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Choose the Right Rice: Use glutinous or sticky rice for the best texture. Long-grain rice won’t yield the same chewy goodness you desire.
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Soaking is Key: Don’t skip the soaking step; it ensures the rice cooks evenly and achieves that perfect sticky consistency.
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Monitor the Cooking: Keep an eye on the simmering rice. If it starts to boil over, reduce the heat and cover it to prevent mess and ensure perfect doneness.
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Adjust the Sweetness: Taste the coconut sauce as it thickens and adjust the sugar according to your preference, as some mangoes can be sweeter than others.
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Fresh Mango Matters: Opt for ripe, fragrant mangoes to enhance the dish’s sweetness. Under-ripe or overripe mangoes can disrupt the balance of flavors in your Mango Sticky Rice Recipe.
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Garnish Creatively: Elevate the presentation by adding mint leaves or a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top before serving.
Mango Sticky Rice Recipe Variations
Feel free to play around with this delightful dish and make it your own with these fun ideas!
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Vegan: Substitute full-fat coconut milk and sugar with coconut cream and maple syrup for a plant-based twist. This keeps the flavors rich while aligning with vegan preferences.
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Fruit Swap: Try using fresh pineapple or dragon fruit instead of mango for a tropical twist that still surprises your taste buds. Each bite will bring its own unique sweetness!
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Nutty Crunch: Add roasted peanuts or toasted coconut flakes as a topping for extra crunch and flavor. The contrast of textures elevates the overall dessert experience.
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Spicy Kick: Drizzle a little chili oil or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness beautifully. It’s a daring move that pays off!
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Coconut Infusion: Use coconut extract to amplify the coconut flavor in both the rice and sauce. It’ll envelop your senses in a wave of tropical goodness.
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Dessert Layering: Turn it into a parfait by layering coconut rice with yogurt and diced mango. Each spoonful will be creamy, fruity, and oh-so-satisfying!
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Rice Alternatives: Experiment with quinoa or millet for a gluten-free take. While the texture may differ, the rich coconut flavor will still shine through.
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Chilled Delight: Serve the dish chilled for a refreshing summer treat. Just place the rice in the fridge for an hour before drizzling the sauce. This twist offers a different dining experience!
What to Serve with Mango Sticky Rice?
Indulging in a bowl of Mango Sticky Rice sets the stage for a delightful dining experience—let’s elevate your meal!
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Grilled Pineapple: The smoky sweetness of grilled pineapple complements the creamy rice, adding a burst of tropical flavor. Its caramelization enhances the dessert’s sweetness.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: A savory counterpart, these delicate rolls filled with crunchy vegetables offer a delightful contrast to the sweet rice. The fresh cilantro inside brightens every bite!
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Thai Iced Tea: This creamy and sweet beverage pairs perfectly with the tropical flavors, creating a refreshing balance as the tea’s spice complements the coconut richness.
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Coconut Sorbet: Light and refreshing, this sorbet echoes the dish’s coconut notes while serving as a palate cleanser between bites of sticky rice. The chill contrasts beautifully with the warm dessert.
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Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh tropical fruits—think papaya, kiwi, and dragon fruit—adds a vibrant touch and balances the dish’s sweetness with natural tartness.
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Sesame Cracker Snacks: Serve alongside for a crunchy texture that contrasts the creaminess, and their nutty flavor pairs delightfully with the coconut sauce.
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Mango Lassi: This creamy yogurt drink enhances the tropical experience, making it a tasty companion to your Mango Sticky Rice, while the coolness beautifully balances the richness.
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Matcha Green Tea: The earthy tones of matcha bring a sophisticated touch to the meal while cutting through the dessert’s sweetness, creating an aromatic and enjoyable combination.
How to Store and Freeze Mango Sticky Rice
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the rice completely before sealing to maintain its texture.
Freezer: To freeze, portion the mango sticky rice into individual servings in freezer-safe bags. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.
Fresh Mango: Keep mango slices separate in the fridge, and enjoy them fresh; they don’t freeze well and are best added just before serving your Mango Sticky Rice Recipe.
Make Ahead Options
These Mango Sticky Rice Recipe components can easily be prepped in advance, making it a fantastic option for busy home cooks! You can soak the sticky rice and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before cooking to save time. Additionally, the coconut sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just give it a gentle reheat before serving to maintain its creamy texture. When ready to enjoy, simply follow the last steps: cook the soaked rice and drizzle the warmed coconut sauce over it, topped with fresh mango slices. With these make-ahead tips, you can savor this tropical delight without the stress!
Mango Sticky Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe mangoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma. The skin should be vibrant in color, without dark spots or wrinkles. Ideal varieties include Ataulfo or Haden, which are sweet and juicy, perfect for enhancing your Mango Sticky Rice Recipe.
How should I store leftovers?
Very good question! Store any leftover coconut rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the rice is completely cooled before sealing it, as this helps maintain its fluffy texture. You can also freeze the sticky rice in portion sizes using freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze Mango Sticky Rice? How?
Of course! To freeze the coconut rice, portion it into individual servings in freezer-safe bags, pressing out excess air. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk to restore its creamy texture.
What do I do if the rice isn’t sticky enough?
Oh, no worries! If this happens, it might be from insufficient soaking or the wrong type of rice. Ensure you use glutinous or sticky rice and soak it for at least 30 minutes or up to a couple of hours for the best outcomes. If you find it’s still not sticky after cooking, you can stir in a bit of extra coconut milk while it’s still warm to improve the consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, it’s important to note! If you’re serving this recipe to someone with a coconut allergy, it’s best to avoid this dish altogether, as it features both coconut milk and shredded coconut. You can also substitute the sugar with a sweetener of your choice if you need a low-sugar version. Always double-check the ingredient labels if you have guests with specific dietary needs.
Delicious Mango Sticky Rice Recipe for a Tropical Escape
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the sticky rice under cold water until the water turns clear.
- Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes.
- Boil the soaked rice with coconut milk and sugar over medium heat.
- Simmer the rice, covering the pot and cooking for 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the coconut sauce by heating coconut milk, sugar, cornflour, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds until thick.
- Slice the ripe mangoes after peeling.
- Serve warm coconut rice drizzled with coconut sauce and topped with mango slices.