How to Make a Sweet and Sticky Mango Sticky Rice

Mango sticky rice is a popular dessert that comes from Thailand. It’s a delicious combination of sweet, sticky rice, and ripe, juicy mangoes, all tied together with a drizzle of creamy coconut sauce. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out on a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and texture. The good news is, making mango sticky rice at home is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated steps. Here’s a simple guide to help you create this sweet and sticky dessert in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the sticky rice:
– 1 cup of glutinous rice (also known as sticky rice or sweet rice)
– 1 1/2 cups of water

For the coconut sauce:
– 1 cup of canned coconut milk
– 1/4 cup of sugar (you can adjust based on your preference)
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt

For the mango:
– 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced

Optional for garnishing:
– A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or mung beans
– A few mint leaves

Step 1: Preparing the Rice

The first step in making mango sticky rice is to properly prepare the sticky rice. Begin by rinsing the rice in cold water a few times to remove excess starch. This step is crucial because it prevents the rice from getting too mushy. After rinsing, soak the rice in water for at least an hour, though letting it sit overnight yields even better results. When the rice has been soaked, drain the water.

Next, it’s time to steam the rice. Use a traditional bamboo steamer for an authentic touch, but any steamer will do. Spread the soaked rice in a thin layer on a cheesecloth or a similarly porous cloth and place it in the steamer. Make sure the water in the steamer doesn’t touch the rice. Cover and steam for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and translucent. Don’t forget to check the water level in your steamer periodically and add more if needed.

Step 2: Making the Coconut Sauce

While the rice is cooking, you can start on the coconut sauce. Pour the coconut milk into a small pot and add sugar and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once it’s dissolved, reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Be careful not to let it boil too vigorously, or you might end up with a sauce that’s too thick.

Step 3: Mixing the Rice and Coconut Sauce

Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. While the rice is still hot, pour about three-quarters of the coconut sauce over it. Gently stir the mixture to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the sauce. Let it sit for a few minutes; the rice will absorb the sauce and become even more flavorful.

Step 4: Serving

Now, it’s time to assemble your dessert. Spoon a portion of the sticky rice onto a plate. Next, add the sliced mangoes on the side or on top of the rice. Drizzle the remaining coconut sauce over the mango and rice for added creaminess and flavor. If you like, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or mung beans on top for a bit of crunch and garnish with a few mint leaves for freshness.

Tips for the Perfect Mango Sticky Rice

1. Choosing the Right Mango: The key to delicious mango sticky rice is ripe, sweet mangoes. Look for mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma. The Ataulfo (also known as honey or champagne) and Kent mango varieties are excellent choices.

2. Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the coconut sauce to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, start with less sugar and add more as needed.

3. Serving Temperature: Mango sticky rice is best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Mango sticky rice is a fantastic way to end a meal or as a treat any time of day. Its combination of creamy, sweet rice and fresh mangoes, drizzled with coconut sauce, makes it irresistible. With this simple guide, you can bring a taste of Thailand into your home and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. So, why wait? Give it a try and enjoy the delectable world of mango sticky rice today!