Mango Sticky Rice is a beloved Thai dessert that combines sweet coconut sticky rice with ripe, juicy mango slices. Its delicate balance of creamy, sweet, and fruity flavors makes it a favorite among both locals and tourists. It’s easy to make and offers a refreshing treat, perfect for warm days.
This dessert is the perfect balance of flavors—sweet, creamy, and slightly salty. The coconut milk enriches the sticky rice, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture. When paired with perfectly ripe mango, the dish takes on a refreshing, tropical note that elevates any meal. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but light, making it a favorite during warm weather or after a hearty meal.
Why You’ll Love This Mango Sticky Rice Recipe
Mango Sticky Rice is the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The ripe mango adds freshness, while the sticky rice has a smooth, coconut flavor that melts in your mouth. It’s a dessert that feels both light and indulgent.
The simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible to everyone. With just a few ingredients—mango, rice, coconut milk—you can create a delicious dish in no time. It’s easy to follow, even for beginners, and the results are always impressive.
This dish is great for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving a sweet treat, Mango Sticky Rice is a crowd-pleaser. It’s sure to impress both family and friends with its beautiful presentation and irresistible flavor.
Mango Sticky Rice is also a healthier dessert choice. Unlike heavy, sugary sweets, it offers a light sweetness with natural fruit sugars. Plus, it’s made with coconut milk, which is rich in healthy fats and gives the dish a creamy texture.
Pre-preparation of Mango Sticky Rice Recipe
Before diving into the recipe, here’s a quick pre-preparation guide:
- Soak the Sticky Rice: The sticky rice must be soaked for at least 4-6 hours or overnight to achieve the perfect texture.
- Peel the Mangoes: Select ripe, sweet mangoes. Peel and slice them into thin, even strips.
- Prepare Coconut Milk: Ensure that your coconut milk is well-mixed before using it for the recipe.
How to Make Mango Sticky Rice Recipe
Ingredients
Here are the simple ingredients needed for Mango Sticky Rice:
- 1 cup sticky rice (glutinous rice)
- 1 ½ cups coconut milk
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
- Sesame seeds or mung beans (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Rinse and Soak the Rice: Rinse the sticky rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
- Steam the Rice: Drain the rice and place it in a steamer basket—steam for 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and tender. Be sure to fluff the rice halfway through cooking.
- Prepare Coconut Milk Mixture: While the rice is cooking, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt in a medium pot over low heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, and don’t let the coconut milk come to a boil. Remove from heat once it’s thoroughly combined.
- Mix Rice with Coconut Milk: Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the coconut milk mixture over the rice and stir gently. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the coconut milk.
- Serve: Once the rice has absorbed the coconut milk, it’s time to plate. Scoop some rice onto a plate, top with fresh mango slices, and garnish with sesame seeds or mung beans if desired.
- Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet, creamy goodness of Mango Sticky Rice!
Nutrition and Health Benefits of Mango Sticky Rice Recipe
Nutrition Benefits:
- High in Vitamins: Mangoes are rich in vitamin C and vitamin A, which support a healthy immune system, skin, and vision.
- Good Source of Fiber: The sticky rice provides dietary fiber that aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
- Low in Fat: This dish is naturally low in fat, making it a light and healthy dessert option.
- Energy Boosting: The carbohydrates from the sticky rice give you a quick energy boost while keeping you full for longer.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Mangoes are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Health Benefits:
- Promotes Digestion: The fiber from sticky rice and mangoes aids in smooth digestion and reduces the risk of constipation.
- Improves Skin Health: Vitamin A and C in mangoes help rejuvenate the skin, keeping it glowing and healthy.
- Supports Immune Function: Mangoes’ vitamin C content strengthens your immune system, helping you stay healthy and fight infections.
- Boosts Eye Health: The high vitamin A content in mangoes promotes healthy eyesight and reduces the risk of age-related vision issues.
- Enhances Bone Health: Both mangoes and sticky rice contain nutrients that support bone strength and prevent bone-related issues.
Mango Sticky Rice Recipe Variation
You can try different variations of Mango Sticky Rice to suit your taste. For a richer flavor, add a little more sugar to the coconut sauce or a dash of vanilla extract. For a tropical twist, you can also add other fruits like papaya or pineapple along with the mango.
Another variation is to add a spoonful of crushed peanuts on top for an added crunch. You can also experiment by using brown sugar instead of white sugar for a caramelized flavor.
How to Serve Mango Sticky Rice Recipe
Mango Sticky Rice is best served fresh. You can arrange the sticky rice on a plate, place the mango slices on top, and drizzle with the remaining coconut sauce for a beautiful presentation. For a touch of sweetness, sprinkle some extra sugar on top before serving.
This dish can be served as a dessert after a savory meal or as a refreshing snack on a hot day. It’s perfect for summer gatherings and is often enjoyed as a traditional Thai treat at special occasions or festivals.
Storage Options
Mango Sticky Rice is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When storing, keep the rice and mango slices separate to prevent the fruit from becoming too mushy.
If you want to save the sticky rice, you can freeze it for up to a month. Simply reheat it with a bit of coconut milk for the best texture. The mango slices should be consumed immediately for the best flavor.
FAQs About Mango Sticky Rice Recipe
Can I use regular rice instead of sticky rice?
Regular rice won’t give you the same chewy, sticky texture that glutinous rice provides. For the best results, it’s highly recommended to use sticky rice for this recipe.
How do I store leftover Mango Sticky Rice?
Leftover mango sticky rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, steam it gently to restore its soft, sticky texture.
Is Mango Sticky Rice a healthy dessert?
Mango sticky rice is a relatively indulgent dessert due to the sugar and coconut milk. However, it offers the nutritional benefits of mango, which is rich in vitamins and fiber.
Can I use canned coconut milk for Mango Sticky Rice?
Yes, canned coconut milk works perfectly in this recipe and is often used for convenience. Be sure to choose a full-fat version for a rich, creamy texture.