The first time I tasted mango sticky rice, I was swept away by a whirlwind of tropical flavors and creamy textures. The combination of sweet, tender rice enveloped in a luscious coconut sauce, paired with juicy, ripe mangoes, was nothing short of a gastronomic love affair. This delightful Thai dessert has become my go-to treat, especially during warm summer evenings when I crave something refreshing yet satisfying.
What makes this recipe even more appealing is its simplicity. Unlike many restaurant versions that can be overly sweet, my homemade take on mango sticky rice strikes the perfect balance—delightfully indulgent while still being a healthier option. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delectable dish. So, if you’re ready for a culinary adventure that will whisk you away to the streets of Thailand, let’s dive into this easy and authentic recipe for mango sticky rice!
Why is Mango Sticky Rice so special?
Irresistible Flavors: The smooth coconut sauce perfectly complements the sweet, ripe mango, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
Healthier Homemade Option: This recipe offers a lower sugar alternative, ensuring you indulge without the guilt.
Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can master this dessert—even novice cooks!
Vegan & Gluten-Free: Perfect for all dietary preferences, it’s a treat everyone can share at your next gathering.
Serve It Any Time: Whether as a refreshing summer dessert or a sophisticated finish to a meal, it never fails to impress. Enjoy this delightful recipe that captures the essence of Thai street food right in your home!
Mango Sticky Rice Ingredients
• Discover the key components to this delightful dessert!
For the Sticky Rice
- Sticky Rice – This is the star ingredient, providing that unique chewy texture; remember to soak it beforehand for optimal results.
For the Coconut Sauce
- Coconut Milk – Full-fat canned coconut milk gives the sauce its creamy richness; feel free to use fresh coconut milk for an even fresher taste.
- Sugar – Standard white granulated sugar sweetens the dish without darkening its color; adjust the amount if you want a less sweet treat.
- Salt – A pinch enhances the coconut flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Cornstarch (Optional) – Use this to thicken the sauce if it’s too thin for your preference, creating that luscious consistency.
For the Fresh Fruit
- Ripe Mangoes – Choose sweet varieties like Ataulfo or Tommy Atkins to ensure every bite bursts with tropical flavor.
For the Garnish
- Toasted Sesame Seeds (Optional) – These add a delightful crunch and a beautiful finish to your presentation.
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a showstopper with your homemade Mango Sticky Rice!
How to Make Mango Sticky Rice
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Prep the Rice: Rinse your sticky rice thoroughly under cold water, then soak it in water for at least 1 hour, up to overnight. This helps achieve the perfect chewy texture.
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Steam the Rice: Drain the soaked rice and place it in a heatproof bowl positioned in a steamer. Steam over medium-high heat for 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and sticky.
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Make the Coconut Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Gently warm the mixture over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Avoid boiling!
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Thicken Sauce (if necessary): If you’d like a richer consistency, mix cornstarch with a little water, then stir it into the warm coconut sauce until thickened to your liking.
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Combine: Once the sticky rice is cooked, mix in about 1 cup of the coconut sauce, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors while maintaining its delightful stickiness.
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Serve: Plate the warm coconut rice alongside freshly sliced mangoes. Drizzle more coconut sauce over the top and garnish with toasted sesame seeds if you wish.
Optional: Serve with additional mango slices for a vibrant presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Mango Sticky Rice are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can soak the sticky rice and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, which helps achieve that perfect chewy texture when cooked. The coconut sauce can also be prepared ahead of time; simply store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container to maintain its rich flavor. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the rice gently and combine it with the coconut sauce before plating with fresh mango slices. This ensures your dessert remains just as delicious while saving you precious time during hectic days!
Mango Sticky Rice Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists that will make your Mango Sticky Rice experience even more exciting!
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Coconut Cream: Swap coconut milk with coconut cream for an ultra-rich sauce; reduce sugar if needed for balance. A thicker sauce adds a velvety touch that elevates each bite.
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Black Glutinous Rice: Use black glutinous rice instead of the regular variety for a nuttier flavor and stunning color contrast. This unique twist transforms the dish into an eye-catching masterpiece.
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Pandan Leaf Infusion: Prepare the rice with pandan leaves while steaming for an aromatic touch that’s both refreshing and unique. This fragrant addition beautifully complements the mango’s sweetness.
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Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruits like berries or bananas if mangoes aren’t available! They add a pop of color and diverse flavors, making each bowl a delicious surprise.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like cashews or peanuts for extra texture and flavor. The added crunch contrasts beautifully with the creamy coconut and soft rice.
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Spicy Kick: Drizzle a bit of chili oil or sprinkle crushed chili flakes for those who enjoy a hint of heat. The spicy-sweet combination is an adventurous twist that will ignite your taste buds.
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Sweetened Coconut Flakes: Top with toasted coconut flakes for a lovely sweetness and an additional layer of coconut flavor. This not only enhances the appearance but also delights the senses with a tropical crunch.
Discover how these variations can transform your beloved Mango Sticky Rice into a new favorite with every variation!
How to Store and Freeze Mango Sticky Rice
Fridge: Store leftover mango sticky rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the coconut sauce separate to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
Freezer: If you plan to freeze, portion the sticky rice and coconut sauce in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, steam the rice gently until warm and drizzle with fresh coconut sauce, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Serving Tip: Serve with fresh, ripe mango slices for an added burst of flavor when enjoying leftovers!
Expert Tips for Mango Sticky Rice
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Soak the Rice: Always soak the sticky rice before cooking; this is essential for achieving the perfect gooey and chewy texture.
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Gentle Heating: Avoid boiling the coconut sauce; instead, heat it gently to allow flavors to develop without separating.
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Consistency Control: If your coconut sauce seems too thin, add cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken it for that luxurious texture.
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Pick Sweet Mangoes: Choose ripe varieties like Ataulfo or Tommy Atkins for the best flavor balance with the sticky rice.
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Storage Secrets: Store leftover rice and sauce separately in the fridge to keep them fresh; reheat the rice gently before serving.
What to Serve with Mango Sticky Rice?
Mango sticky rice is the perfect sweet ending to any meal, but pairing it with special sides or drinks can elevate the experience.
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Fresh Spring Rolls: These vibrant rolls add a crunchy texture and freshness, complementing the sweetness of the dessert beautifully.
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Thai Iced Tea: The creaminess and slight bitterness of this traditional drink balance perfectly with the rich coconut flavors, enhancing overall enjoyment.
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Fried Bananas: Crispy on the outside and warm inside, these treats echo the tropical theme while adding a delightful crunch with each bite.
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Coconut Macaroons: Intensify the coconut experience with these chewy bites; their sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the smooth sauce of the sticky rice.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of fruits like pineapples and papayas offers a refreshing contrast with hints of tartness, complementing the dessert.
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Chilled Coconut Water: This light, hydrating drink brings an additional layer of coconut flavor, keeping the meal light and refreshing.
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Mango Sorbet: For mango lovers, serving this icy treat alongside your sticky rice adds a frigid element that enhances the tropical experience.
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Sesame Cookies: A small, crunchy compliment to the soft textures of the sticky rice, these cookies introduce a nutty flavor that keeps the meal interesting.
These pairings will ensure your dessert is not only fulfilling but a delightful centerpiece to your culinary adventure!
Mango Sticky Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of mangoes should I use for mango sticky rice?
For the best flavor, choose ripe varieties such as Ataulfo (also known as Honey or Champagne mango) or Tommy Atkins. These types are sweet and delicious, providing the perfect balance to the creamy coconut rice.
How long can I store leftover mango sticky rice?
You can store leftover mango sticky rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the rice and coconut sauce separate to prevent the rice from drying out.
Can I freeze mango sticky rice?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the sticky rice and coconut sauce into freezer-safe containers. It can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat using a steamer or microwave.
What should I do if my coconut sauce is too thin?
If you find your coconut sauce is a bit runny, simply mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Stir this into your warm coconut sauce and allow it to thicken over low heat while stirring continuously until you reach your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for mango sticky rice?
Yes! This recipe is vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. However, if serving to pets, avoid giving them the coconut milk and sugar, as these can upset their stomachs.
How should I reheat leftover mango sticky rice?
To reheat, gently steam the rice in a steamer until warmed through, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring to ensure even heating. Drizzle with fresh coconut sauce before serving to restore its creamy texture!
Mango Sticky Rice Magic: Easy Vegan Delight at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse sticky rice thoroughly, then soak it in water for at least 1 hour, up to overnight.
- Drain the soaked rice, place it in a heatproof bowl in a steamer, and steam for 20-25 minutes.
- In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Warm gently, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- If necessary, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir into the coconut sauce until thickened.
- Once the sticky rice is cooked, mix in about 1 cup of the coconut sauce, allowing flavors to absorb.
- Plate the warm rice alongside sliced mangoes, drizzle with coconut sauce, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds.