There’s a special kind of joy that comes when a simple ingredient can transform into a delightful dessert—like this easy mango sticky rice. Imagine the sweet aroma of ripe mangoes and the creamy, luscious coconut milk melding together to create a dish that not only pleases your palate but also captivates your heart. I discovered this recipe during a summer gathering, where the colors of fresh fruits beckoned from my kitchen counter, and it turned out to be the star of the show!
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or treat yourself to a comforting dessert, this dish is versatile and incredibly easy to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients, including sticky rice, coconut milk, and juicy mangoes, you’ll create a tropical escape right in your home. Following this simple recipe, you can turn a mundane evening into a culinary celebration, all while savoring the delightful flavors of this sweet treat. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into the sweet world of mango sticky rice!
Why is easy mango sticky rice so irresistible?
Decadent Coconut Milk: The rich, creamy coconut milk paired with sweet mangoes creates a luxurious flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Quick Prep: This recipe is perfect for a busy day; it requires minimal prep and simple cooking techniques!
Tropical Vibes: Enjoy a slice of paradise at home without booking a flight, thanks to the tropical flavors in every bite.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Whether it’s a dinner party or family gathering, this dish is sure to be the highlight and impress everyone!
Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding fruits or toppings, making it versatile for your taste buds.
This easy mango sticky rice is the perfect choice for skimming past boring fast food—prepare to satisfy your cravings!
Easy Mango Sticky Rice Ingredients
For the Rice
• Sticky rice – This is essential for that delightful, chewy texture we love in easy mango sticky rice.
• Water – Needed to cook the sticky rice perfectly without it becoming mushy.
For the Coconut Sauce
• Full-fat coconut milk – The creaminess adds richness, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.
• Granulated sugar – This sweetens the coconut milk and balances the natural flavors.
• Cornflour – Use this to thicken your sauce for that luxurious sheen.
For the Toppings
• Sesame seeds – These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to your finished dish.
• Poppy seeds – A sprinkle of these provides an extra layer of texture and visual appeal.
• Ripe mangoes – The star of the show, as juicy mangoes elevate the sweetness of your coconut rice.
With these simple but flavorful ingredients, creating your easy mango sticky rice will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise!
How to Make Easy Mango Sticky Rice
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Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing 1 cup of sticky rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, ensuring your rice cooks up perfectly sticky and chewy.
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Cook the Rice: In a pan over low to medium heat, combine the rinsed rice with 1 ½ cups of water. Cover with a lid and cook until all the water has evaporated and the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes, depending on your heat.
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Steam the Rice: Once the water is gone, remove the pan from heat but keep the lid on for an additional 5 minutes. This helps the rice finish steaming and ensures a nice, fluffy texture.
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Make the Coconut Sauce: In a separate pan, combine 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
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Mix the Sauce: Once boiling, stir in 1 teaspoon of cornflour mixed with a small amount of water, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly (about 2-3 minutes).
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Combine Rice and Sauce: Pour the warm coconut sauce over the cooked rice and stir gently to combine. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, allowing the rice to soak in all that delicious coconut goodness.
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Shape the Rice: After soaking, divide the rice amongst small ramekins or round bowls. Press down gently with a spoon to create a compact dome shape.
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Serve with Style: Invert the bowls onto small plates to form rice domes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and poppy seeds for added texture. Add mango slices on the side and drizzle with extra coconut milk before serving.
Optional: For a burst of color, add a mint leaf to each serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Mango Sticky Rice
Room Temperature: Allow the easy mango sticky rice to cool completely before storing, as keeping it warm can create condensation which makes rice gummy.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed; you can add a splash of coconut milk if it feels dry.
Freezer: Freeze the rice in individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating: For the best texture, consider steaming the rice after thawing; this helps to revive its sticky quality while enhancing the flavors of your easy mango sticky rice.
Expert Tips for Easy Mango Sticky Rice
Rinse Properly: Thoroughly rinse the sticky rice until the water runs clear to eliminate excess starch; this prevents gumminess and ensures a perfect texture.
Watch the Water: Pay attention to the water-to-rice ratio; too much water can lead to overly soft rice, while too little can leave it undercooked.
Soak the Sauce: Let the rice absorb the coconut sauce for at least 30 minutes; this creates a deep, rich flavor and enhances the overall experience of your easy mango sticky rice.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar levels in the coconut sauce to match your sweetness preference; this personal touch can elevate your dish even more!
Creative Toppings: Don’t hesitate to explore unique toppings like shredded coconut or chopped nuts; they can add delightful crunch and flavor contrast to your dessert.
What to Serve with Coconut Rice with Mango?
Imagine treating yourself to a tropical feast complete with lush flavors and comforting textures that dance on your palate.
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Thai Spring Rolls: These fresh rolls filled with herbs and veggies offer a light, crunchy contrast that complements the creamy rice beautifully.
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Grilled Chicken Skewers: Savory marinated chicken adds a satisfying protein punch, balancing the sweetness of the mango and coconut.
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Crispy Fried Tofu: The crispy exterior and soft inside of tofu provide a delightful textural play alongside the sticky rice’s chewiness.
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Coconut Curry: Rich and fragrant, a coconut curry pairs splendidly with mango sticky rice, enhancing the tropical flavors that shine through.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing assortment of tropical fruits like pineapple and kiwi can provide brightness and acidity, perfectly offsetting the dish’s sweetness.
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Iced Green Tea: This lightly sweetened drink offers a soothing refreshment that cleanses the palate while enjoying the richness of the coconut rice and mango.
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Sesame Ginger Dressing: Drizzling this tangy dressing over a simple side salad can bring a zesty twist that balances the dish’s creaminess.
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Chocolate Mousse: For a decadent dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse can round out the meal while keeping the focus on indulgence.
In this delightful pairing world, each dish brings its own charm, making your meal not just a feast, but a delightful culinary adventure.
Make Ahead Options
These easy mango sticky rice bowls are perfect for busy cooks who want to save time during the week! You can prepare the sticky rice and coconut sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the rice and let it soak in the coconut sauce as instructed, then refrigerate them in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the rice and drape the warm coconut sauce over it. To maintain the quality, avoid adding the mango slices until just before serving, so they remain fresh and vibrant. With these prep-ahead strategies, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to enjoy with minimal effort!
Easy Mango Sticky Rice Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Coconut Cream: Replace the full-fat coconut milk with coconut cream for a richer and creamier sauce. It elevates the flavor to pure bliss!
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Sweetener Swap: Use honey or agave syrup instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener that enhances the tropical vibe of this dish.
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Fruit Fusion: Add sliced peaches, strawberries, or bananas alongside mango for a delightful medley of fruit flavors. It takes your dessert to a whole new level of fresh!
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Nutty Touch: Top with chopped toasted almonds or cashews for a crunchy contrast to the soft, sticky rice and sweet coconut. You’ll absolutely love this textural twist!
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Vegan Version: Keep it vegan by ensuring the sugar you use is unrefined, as some sugar can be processed with bone char. Sweeten without compromise!
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the coconut sauce for a warm, seasonal take on this classic dish. This tiny tweak makes all the difference!
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Zesty Kick: Drizzle a little lime or lemon juice over the finished dish for a citric zing that balances the sweetness beautifully. It’s a refreshing surprise in every bite!
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Salty Surprise: Incorporate a pinch of sea salt to enhance all the flavors and bring out the natural sweetness of the mango. Salt and sweet are a blissful pair!
Easy Mango Sticky Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best mangoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting mangoes, look for fruits that are slightly soft to the touch and emit a sweet aroma. Ripe mangoes often have a vibrant skin color, but be mindful that some varieties may remain green even when fully ripe. I suggest letting them sit at room temperature for a day or two if they’re not quite ripe yet.
How should I store the easy mango sticky rice?
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious creation, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a few seconds, adding a splash of coconut milk if it seems a bit dry.
Can I freeze easy mango sticky rice?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooled sticky rice in individual portions, using freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will keep for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. For best results, once thawed, you might want to steam it for a few minutes to restore its delightful sticky texture.
What should I do if my coconut sauce is too thin?
If you find your coconut sauce isn’t thickening as expected, don’t worry! You can create a slurry by mixing an extra teaspoon of cornflour with a small amount of cold water until smooth. Then, whisk it into the sauce over medium heat, stirring consistently until it reaches your desired thickness. This should resolve the issue!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this dish?
Great question! This easy mango sticky rice is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it friendly for various dietary needs. However, if you’re preparing it for someone with allergies, always double-check the ingredients in your coconut milk and sugar. You might also consider using alternative sweeteners if needed, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful treat!
Easy Mango Sticky Rice Recipe to Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a pan, combine rinsed rice and water. Cover and cook until water evaporates and rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
- In a separate pan, combine coconut milk and sugar, then bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in cornflour mixed with a small amount of water, cooking until slightly thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
- Pour the coconut sauce over the rice and mix gently. Let it sit for about 30 minutes.
- Divide rice into ramekins, pressing down to form a dome shape.
- Invert bowls onto plates, sprinkle with sesame and poppy seeds, add mango slices, and drizzle with coconut milk.