There’s something truly enchanting about street food carts lining the bustling streets of Thailand, each offering a delicious glimpse into the rich culinary culture. One gem that always catches my eye is Thai Mango Sticky Rice, a vegan dessert that celebrates simplicity in the most delightful way. The sticky, chewy glutinous rice paired with a velvety coconut milk sauce and sweet ripe mangoes creates a harmonious blend of flavors that’s simply irresistible. Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also serves as a refreshing treat perfect for those warm days when you crave something light yet satisfying. With the option to sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a touch of crunch, this dessert invites you to embrace a tropical experience right in your own kitchen. Are you ready to savor the joy of homemade Thai Mango Sticky Rice?

Why is Thai Mango Sticky Rice a Must-Try?

Delightfully Simple: This recipe is a breeze to prepare, requiring only a handful of ingredients to create a dish that’s both elegant and satisfying.

Vegan and Gluten-Free: Perfect for various dietary preferences, the creamy coconut and fresh mango ensure everyone can enjoy this dessert without missing out.

Bursting with Flavor: The sweet, juicy mango combined with the rich coconut sauce offers a delightful tropical experience that transports you straight to sunny Thailand.

Garnish Options: Add toasted sesame seeds or mung beans to elevate the texture, making each bite a well-balanced treat.

Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your friends and family with this stunning dessert, which is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or celebration.

For more delicious vegan options, be sure to check out my recipes for Corn Chicken Rice or Teriyaki Chicken Rice that are also perfect for sharing!

Thai Mango Sticky Rice Ingredients

For the Sticky Rice
• Glutinous Sticky Rice – This is the heart of the dish, providing the traditional chewy texture; avoid substituting with regular rice!
• Water – Essential for steaming the rice to a tender perfection.

For the Coconut Sauce
• Full-Fat Coconut Milk – Brings a rich creaminess and depth of flavor; consider light coconut milk for a thinner sauce.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the coconut; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the coconut sauce for that perfect balance of taste.

For the Topping
• Ripe Mangoes – Vital for freshness and sweetness; ensure they are at room temperature for the best flavor.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds or Mung Beans (optional) – These provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor as a garnish; you can mix and match for variety!

Enjoy crafting this Thai Mango Sticky Rice dessert that promises to take you on a sweet culinary journey!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for THAI MANGO STICKY RICE

Step 1: Soak the Sticky Rice
Begin by soaking 1 cup of glutinous sticky rice in water for at least 3 hours, or overnight for optimal results. This soaking process hydrates the grains, ensuring they become tender and chewy. Once soaked, drain and rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch for the best texture in your THAI MANGO STICKY RICE.

Step 2: Steam the Rice
Prepare a steamer basket lined with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel and add the rinsed sticky rice. Fill a pot with 1 1/2 cups of water and let it come to a gentle boil before placing the steamer basket on top. Cover and steam the rice for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the rice is tender but still retains its shape, achieving that perfect chewy consistency.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Sauce
While the sticky rice is steaming, combine 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan over low heat. Stir gently, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely without boiling the mixture. This should take about 5 minutes. The goal is to create a rich and creamy coconut sauce that will later envelop your THAI MANGO STICKY RICE.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Sauce
Once the sticky rice is cooked, transfer it to a mixing bowl and pour about two-thirds of the warm coconut sauce over it. Gently mix the rice and sauce with a spatula or wooden spoon, ensuring the rice absorbs the sauce while maintaining its sticky texture. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes for the flavors to meld beautifully in your THAI MANGO STICKY RICE.

Step 5: Prepare the Mangoes
While the rice absorbs the coconut sauce, peel and slice 2 ripe mangoes into bite-sized pieces. Make sure the mangoes are at room temperature to enhance their sweetness. These juicy slices will beautifully complement the rich flavors of your THAI MANGO STICKY RICE, providing a fresh and tropical element to balance the dish.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
To serve, scoop the sticky rice onto individual plates alongside the mango slices, allowing the two components to shine. Drizzle the remaining coconut sauce over the rice and mango for an extra touch of creaminess. For added texture and flavor, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or mung beans if desired, completing your stunning THAI MANGO STICKY RICE dessert.

Expert Tips for Thai Mango Sticky Rice

Soak for Success: Soak the sticky rice for at least 3 hours or overnight. This crucial step ensures the rice achieves that traditional chewy texture in your THAI MANGO STICKY RICE.
Heat Control: When heating the coconut milk, keep the heat low and stir constantly to prevent burning. Never let it boil, or the consistency will be off.
Check Rice Tenderness: Test the rice before removing it from the steamer. It should be tender but still hold its shape; additional steaming may be needed if it feels firm.
Store Wisely: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a couple of days. However, the texture may change upon reheating, so enjoy it fresh for the best experience.
Flavor Variations: Get creative by adding a drizzle of pandan syrup for a pop of color and flavor, or mix in different fruits for unique taste twists!

How to Store and Freeze Thai Mango Sticky Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. While the flavors will still be delicious, the texture of the sticky rice may change slightly.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rice and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat the rice in a steamer or microwave with a splash of coconut milk to restore moisture and stickiness. Enjoy your Thai Mango Sticky Rice as a delightful treat again!

Garnishing Tips: If you’ve stored garnishes separately, add toasted sesame seeds or mung beans just before serving to maintain their crunch and enhance the overall experience.

What to Serve with Thai Mango Sticky Rice

As you indulge in this sweet, tropical delight, consider crafting a delightful meal around it that dances on your palate.

Iced Green Tea: Its refreshing, herbal notes perfectly contrast the rich coconut flavors, making each sip a rejuvenating complement to your dessert.
Spicy Thai Curry: The heat of a vibrant curry balances the sweetness of the sticky rice, creating a satisfying contrast that excites the taste buds.
Fresh Summer Rolls: Light and filled with crisp vegetables, these rolls provide a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the rice.
Chilled Coconut Water: This light, hydrating drink echoes the coconut flavor while offering a natural sweetness that harmonizes with the dish.
Coconut Sorbet: For an extra coconut fix, serve with sorbet to keep the tropical vibes going; it adds a cool, refreshing finish to your meal.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits like papaya and pineapple adds a burst of flavor and texture that enhances the vibrant experience of Thai Mango Sticky Rice.

For a complete Thai feast, these options build upon the joy of your dessert, inviting friends and family to journey through a symphony of flavors together.

Variations & Substitutions for Thai Mango Sticky Rice

Feel free to get creative and make this Thai Mango Sticky Rice your own with these delightful variations!

Different Fruits: Swap ripe mangoes for lychee or fresh coconut for a unique twist that still delivers on sweetness.
Experimenting with seasonal fruits allows you to keep your dessert fresh and exciting!
Lighten It Up: Use light coconut milk instead of full-fat for a lower-calorie version of the decadent sauce.
It’ll still be creamy but with a lighter feel, perfect for those watchful of their diet!
Sweetener Alternatives: Try using maple syrup or agave nectar in place of granulated sugar for a natural sweetening experience.
Just adjust to your taste, as these alternatives may bring a different flavor nuance to your sticky rice!
Add a Spice Kick: A sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of cardamom can jazz up the coconut sauce with an aromatic fragrance.
This unique addition can infuse your Thai Mango Sticky Rice with warmth and depth, creating an entirely new dessert experience.
Texture Boost: Mix in some crushed pistachios or coconut flakes for a lovely crunchy topping alongside the toasted sesame seeds.
These textures will provide a delightful contrast to the creamy rice and juicy mango.
Coconut Sauce Swap: For a nutty twist, blend in a little almond milk with the coconut milk for a different flavor profile.
This not only alters the taste but also offers a fun diversification from the original recipe.
Using Other Sweeteners: Experiment with coconut sugar or honey if you are not strict vegan; they can add a nice caramel-like depth.
These alternatives cater to flavor preferences while staying true to the lusciousness of Thai desserts.
Tropical Infusion: Drizzle pandan syrup over the top before serving for a colorful and aromatic element that enhances the tropical theme.
This vibrant touch will impress and delight your guests while adding a unique flavor experience!

For even more easy and delicious recipes, don’t forget to check out my Scrambled Eggs Rice for a savory option, or indulge in a comforting bowl of Puerto Rican Rice to satisfy your cravings!

Make Ahead Options

These Thai Mango Sticky Rice components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can soak the glutinous sticky rice up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to hydrate fully—this step is crucial for achieving that desired chewy texture. Additionally, you can prepare the coconut sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just reheat gently before serving to ensure it remains silky and smooth. To keep mango slices fresh, peel and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the warmed sticky rice with the coconut sauce, plate it alongside the mango, and voilà—your delightful Thai Mango Sticky Rice is ready to impress!

Thai Mango Sticky Rice Recipe FAQs

What type of mangoes should I use for Thai Mango Sticky Rice?
I recommend using ripe and juicy mangoes for this dessert, like Ataulfo or Haden, as they provide the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Make sure they are at room temperature for optimal flavor!

How do I store leftover Thai Mango Sticky Rice?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Although the flavors will still be delightful, the texture of the sticky rice may change slightly upon reheating.

Can I freeze Thai Mango Sticky Rice?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze the rice and coconut sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight before gently reheating. This helps maintain the sticky texture of the rice.

What should I do if my sticky rice is too hard after steaming?
If your sticky rice feels hard, it likely has not been steamed long enough. Simply return it to the steamer and steam for an additional 5-10 minutes until it reaches that delightful, chewy texture. Keep an eye on the water level so it doesn’t dry out!

Is Thai Mango Sticky Rice safe for my pets?
While the ingredients in this recipe are generally safe for pets, it’s best to avoid sharing any coconut products with dogs or cats as they can sometimes upset their stomachs. Always check with your veterinarian if you’re uncertain.

Can I adjust the sweetness in my Thai Mango Sticky Rice?
Yes, you can absolutely adjust the sweetness to suit your taste! Start with the suggested amount of sugar in the coconut sauce, then taste and add more if desired. Remember, the sweet, ripe mango will also contribute to the overall sweetness of the dish.