Mango Sticky Rice: a symphony of sweet, creamy coconut milk meeting the tropical tang of ripe mangoes, a dessert that’s pure sunshine on a plate. This vibrant dish is not just a treat, but an experience that will transport you to the bustling street food stalls of Southeast Asia.
Imagine sinking your spoon into the soft, glutinous rice, infused with coconut essence, perfectly complementing the juicy sweetness of the mango. Whether it’s a summer brunch or a cozy night, Mango Sticky Rice is your ticket to instant happiness. Prepare for a flavour journey that’s easy to make and impossible to resist!
- Effortless preparation: Ready in under an hour, perfect for quick desserts or spontaneous sweet cravings.
- Exquisite flavor profile: A balanced blend of sweet, creamy, and tangy tastes, delivering a tropical delight.
- Visually stunning: Bright colors and glossy textures make it a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate.
- Incredibly versatile: Enjoy it as a dessert, snack, or even a light meal; customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients for Mango Sticky Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mango Sticky Rice
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Glutinous Rice
Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect sticky texture.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Drain the soaked rice and transfer it to a steamer lined with cheesecloth or parchment paper. Steam the rice for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s tender and translucent. Fluff the rice with a fork to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Make the Sweet Coconut Sauce
In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves. Do not boil. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Sauce
Transfer the cooked rice to a bowl and pour about half of the sweet coconut sauce over the rice. Gently fold the sauce into the rice, ensuring every grain is coated. Let the rice absorb the sauce for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Mangoes
Peel the mangoes and slice the flesh into thin, even slices. Arrange the mango slices beautifully on a plate.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Spoon the coconut-infused sticky rice next to the mango slices. Drizzle with the remaining coconut sauce and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately and enjoy the heavenly combination of sweet rice and ripe mango!
Perfecting the Cooking Process

Timing is everything, darling! Start by preparing the rice and coconut sauce simultaneously. This ensures that both components are ready around the same time, so you can assemble and serve your delicious Mango Sticky Rice warm and fresh. Coordination prevents kitchen chaos!
Add Your Touch
Feeling adventurous? Infuse the coconut sauce with a hint of cardamom or ginger. Swap regular white rice for black sticky rice for a nutty twist. Or, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts for added texture. This simple Mango Sticky Rice can be upgraded with your creativity.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Mango Sticky Rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the sticky rice gently in the microwave with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. The coconut sauce can be reheated gently on the stovetop. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.
Here are some top-tier tips to become a Mango Sticky Rice Maestro:
- Soaking the sticky rice overnight is non-negotiable; it guarantees that perfectly tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture we all crave.
- Don’t overcook the rice! Aim for al dente – slightly firm to the bite – because it will continue to soften as it steams.
- Taste the coconut sauce as you go; adjust the sweetness and saltiness to your liking, because that’s what separates a good sauce from a great one.
(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)
My grandma, who I swear could charm birds from trees, declared my first attempt was “interesting.” After a few tweaks (and her expert guidance) she announced it “almost as good as hers!” The victory was sweet.
The Tale of Sticky Rice: A Tropical Love Affair
Ah, Mango Sticky Rice. Or, as I like to call it, the dessert that whispers sweet nothings in your ear. It’s not just a dish; it’s a tropical vacation for your taste buds, a culinary hug, and quite possibly the reason I haven’t booked a one-way ticket to a deserted island just yet. The blend of creamy coconut milk, perfectly cooked sticky rice, and the tangy sweetness of ripe mangoes? Pure genius, I tell you! It’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes, sigh contentedly, and momentarily forget about that pile of laundry mocking you from the corner.
Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Mango Sticky Rice? Sounds complicated!” Fear not, my friend! If I, a person who once managed to set water on fire (don’t ask), can master this delightful treat, so can you. This isn’t a delicate soufflé or a multi-layered pastry that requires a degree in culinary arts. This is sticky rice, people! We’re talking about a recipe that’s as forgiving as a toddler who’s just discovered your lipstick. It is something you can make.
Unveiling the Key Ingredients: Nature’s Sweet Symphony
Let’s talk ingredients, shall we? Because even the most talented artist needs a good canvas, and in this case, our canvas is a bowl.
- **Sticky Rice (aka Glutinous Rice):** The star of our show. Do NOT, I repeat, DO NOT try to substitute regular long-grain rice. It simply won’t work. Sticky rice has a unique starch composition that gives it that characteristic, well, stickiness. It’s like the culinary equivalent of Velcro, but in a good way. You can often find this at any Asian grocery store.
- **Ripe Mangoes:** Okay, this is where things get serious. You want mangoes that are ripe, juicy, and practically bursting with flavor. The variety is up to you, but I’m partial to Ataulfo mangoes (also known as honey mangoes) for their creamy texture and intense sweetness. If you can’t find those, Alphonso or even a perfectly ripe Tommy Atkins will do in a pinch. The key is to gently squeeze the mango; it should yield slightly to pressure, but not be mushy.
- **Coconut Milk:** Full-fat, people! Don’t even think about reaching for the low-fat stuff. We’re making dessert here, not dieting. The richness of full-fat coconut milk is essential for that creamy, decadent sauce that makes Mango Sticky Rice so irresistible.
- **Sugar:** Because, duh, it’s dessert! Palm sugar is traditional, but granulated sugar works just fine.
- **Salt:** A pinch! Just a pinch! Salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors. Think of it as the yin to the sugar’s yang.
- **Agar-Agar Powder:** This will substitute gelatin. This is important to the dish and should be used carefully.
Step-by-Step: From Rice to Paradise
Alright, let’s get down to business. Here’s how to transform these humble ingredients into a bowl of tropical bliss:
The Sticky Rice Saga
1. **Soak the Rice: ** This is crucial. Rinse the sticky rice until the water runs clear. Then, soak it in water for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This hydrates the rice and ensures even cooking. Think of it as giving your rice a spa day before its big performance.
2. **Steam the Rice: ** Drain the rice and place it in a steamer lined with cheesecloth or parchment paper. Steam over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is translucent and tender. If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a colander set over a pot of boiling water, making sure the water doesn’t touch the rice.
Crafting the Coconut Dream Sauce
1. **Combine Ingredients: ** In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, salt, and agar-agar powder.
2. **Simmer and Stir: ** Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil!
3. **Reserve Some Sauce: ** Set aside about ¼ cup of the sauce for drizzling later. Because, you know, we like to be fancy.
Mango Magic and Assembly
1. **Prepare the Mangoes: ** Peel the mangoes and slice them into beautiful, Instagram-worthy slices. Or, if you’re like me and your knife skills are questionable, just chop them into chunks. No judgment here!
2. **Combine and Conquer: ** Gently fold the warm sticky rice into the remaining coconut sauce, making sure every grain is coated in creamy goodness.
3. **Plate and Present: ** Spoon the sticky rice onto a plate, arrange the mango slices artfully on top, and drizzle with the reserved coconut sauce.
4. **Garnish (Optional): ** Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or a pinch of flaky sea salt for extra flair.
Troubleshooting Tips: Because Life Happens
- **Rice Too Sticky?** You probably overcooked it. Next time, check the rice more frequently while steaming. Also, make sure you measured the water properly.
- **Sauce Too Thin?** Keep simmering it until it thickens. You may have added too much liquid or not enough agar-agar.
- **Mangoes Not Sweet Enough?** Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over them to boost the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions: Beyond the Bowl
While Mango Sticky Rice is perfectly delightful on its own, here are a few ideas to elevate your experience:
- **Grilled Mango:** Grilling the mango slices before serving adds a smoky depth of flavor that is simply divine.
- **Coconut Ice Cream:** A scoop of creamy coconut ice cream on top? Yes, please!
- **Lime Zest:** A sprinkle of lime zest adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness of the coconut milk.
Mango Sticky Rice: More Than Just a Dessert
Mango Sticky Rice isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. So go ahead, embrace your inner chef, and whip up a batch of this tropical delight. Your taste buds (and your Instagram feed) will thank you! And remember, if I can do it, you can too. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I hear a bowl of Mango Sticky Rice calling my name. Happy cooking!
Conclusion for Mango Sticky Rice :
This Mango Sticky Rice is a delightful dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. By using glutinous rice, creamy coconut milk, and sweet, ripe mangoes, you can recreate this tropical favorite. The addition of a touch of salt and sugar balances the flavors perfectly, while a rice cooker can simplify the cooking process. Whether you use fresh or frozen mangoes, this treat is sure to impress. Now go forth and create your own little piece of tropical paradise!
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Mango Sticky Rice
Delicious mango sticky rice recipe with detailed instructions and nutritional information.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup Thai sweet rice (glutinous rice)
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the sweet rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Place the rice in a saucepan with 1 1/2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Step 2: While the rice is cooking, prepare the coconut sauce. In a separate saucepan, combine 1 cup of the coconut milk, salt, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. If desired, dissolve cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of cold water, then stir into the sauce to thicken it slightly. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat.
- Step 3: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. Add 1/2 cup of the coconut sauce to the rice and stir to combine. Let the rice sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb the sauce.
- Step 4: Divide the sticky rice between two serving plates. Arrange sliced mangoes alongside the rice.
- Step 5: Drizzle the remaining coconut sauce over the rice and mangoes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Store leftover mango sticky rice in the refrigerator, but keep the mango separate from the rice to prevent it from getting soggy.
- For best results, gently reheat the sticky rice in the microwave with a splash of water to restore its moisture.
- Garnish your Mango Sticky Rice with a sprig of fresh mint or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an extra touch of elegance.
- For a richer coconut sauce, use full-fat coconut milk and simmer it until it slightly thickens on its own before adding cornstarch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
FAQs :
Can I use frozen mango for this Mango Sticky Rice recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh mangoes are the gold standard, frozen mango chunks work wonders, especially when they’re out of season. Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess juice before using. This will prevent your sticky rice from becoming too soggy. Nobody wants a mushy mango-rice disaster! Think of it as a tropical rainstorm – a little is refreshing, but too much can ruin the picnic. Using frozen mango is a convenient way to enjoy this delicious dessert year-round, and nobody will even know your secret (except for everyone reading this, of course).
How do I store leftover Mango Sticky Rice?
Storing leftover mango sticky rice properly is essential to keep it from drying out. The best way is to store the sticky rice and the mango separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the rice from absorbing moisture from the mango and becoming overly soft. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can gently reheat the rice in the microwave with a splash of water, and then combine it with the fresh mango. It’s like giving your dessert a mini spa treatment! Consume within 2 days for the best quality.
What kind of rice is best for making sticky rice?
Glutinous rice, also known as sweet rice or sticky rice, is the superstar ingredient for this dessert. Don’t let the name “glutinous” scare you; it doesn’t actually contain gluten. This special type of rice has a unique starch composition that gives it that wonderfully sticky texture when cooked. Short-grain rice varieties, like sushi rice, won’t cut it. Using the right rice is like choosing the perfect dance partner – you need someone who knows how to stick with you! Look for bags labeled “glutinous rice” at Asian grocery stores for the authentic experience.
Can I make Mango Sticky Rice in a rice cooker?
Yes, absolutely! Using a rice cooker is a fantastic and foolproof way to cook the sticky rice. Just rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly and add the appropriate amount of water according to your rice cooker’s instructions (usually a 1: 1 rice-to-water ratio). Then, simply press the button and let the rice cooker work its magic! Once it’s done, let the rice sit for about 10 minutes to allow the steam to redistribute, resulting in perfectly cooked, fluffy, and sticky rice. It’s like having a personal rice-cooking genie grant your dessert wishes.






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