Mango Sticky Rice

Name: Mango Sticky Rice
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup glutinous rice; 1 ½ cups coconut milk; ½ cup sugar; ¼ teaspoon salt; 2 ripe mangoes; Sesame seeds or mung beans for garnish (optional)

Indulge in the tropical flavors of mango sticky rice, a beloved Thai dessert that perfectly combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the creamy richness of coconut sticky rice. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make at home, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, mango sticky rice is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Ingredients

1 cup glutinous rice
1 ½ cups coconut milk
½ cup sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
2 ripe mangoes
Sesame seeds or mung beans for garnish (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 4g
– Fat: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 56g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional value is based on a single serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Wash the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Soak the rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Drain the rice and place it in a steamer lined with cheesecloth.
Steam the rice for about 30 minutes or until tender.
In a saucepan, heat the coconut milk, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves.
Reserve ¼ cup of coconut milk for serving.
Mix the cooked rice with the remaining coconut milk mixture.
Cover and let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Peel and slice the ripe mangoes into thin strips.
Serve the sticky rice with mango slices, drizzling the reserved coconut milk on top.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute glutinous rice with jasmine rice for a different texture, although it won’t be as sticky. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of coconut milk for a richer flavor.

Serving and Pairings

Mango sticky rice can be served as a dessert on its own or paired with other Thai desserts like coconut ice cream or fried bananas. It also makes a refreshing treat during hot weather.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover sticky rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of coconut milk to restore moisture. Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture.

Cooking Mistakes

Not soaking the rice long enough can result in uneven cooking.
Using regular rice instead of glutinous rice will affect the dish’s texture.
Overcooking the rice can make it mushy.
Not allowing the rice to absorb the coconut milk can lead to bland flavor.
Skipping the resting period after mixing the rice and coconut milk will reduce flavor absorption.

Helpful Tips

Always rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch.
Use ripe, sweet mangoes for the best flavor.
Experiment with garnishes like toasted coconut or sesame seeds.
Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar in the coconut milk.

FAQs

What type of rice is best for mango sticky rice?

Glutinous rice, also known as sticky rice, is the best choice for mango sticky rice due to its unique texture when cooked. It absorbs the coconut milk well and provides the perfect base for this dessert.

Can I use canned mangoes instead of fresh?

While fresh mangoes are preferred for their flavor and texture, canned mangoes can be used in a pinch. However, they may not provide the same freshness and sweetness as ripe, fresh mangoes.

Is mango sticky rice gluten-free?

Yes, mango sticky rice is gluten-free as it is made with glutinous rice and coconut milk, which do not contain gluten. It’s a great dessert option for those with gluten sensitivities.

How can I make this dessert vegan?

Mango sticky rice is naturally vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients. Just ensure that the sugar used is vegan-friendly, as some sugars may be processed with bone char.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sticky rice and coconut milk mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to slice the mangoes just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent browning.

Conclusion

Mango sticky rice is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of tropical flavors. With its creamy coconut rice and sweet mango, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. Whether enjoyed at home or at a gathering, this dish will surely make a lasting impression.