Mango Sticky Rice Pudding

Mango Sticky Rice Pudding has been my go-to dessert for family gatherings and summer nights when mangoes are perfectly ripe It captures the essence of Thai cuisine in each spoonful with creamy coconut sauce tender sticky rice and glistening slices of golden mango Every bite tastes indulgent yet refreshingly light ideal for both special occasions and simple everyday treats

The first time I made it my family was skeptical but ended up fighting over the last bite now it’s requested every mango season

Ingredients

• Glutinous sticky rice: One cup is just enough for four and absorbs coconut sauce beautifully Choose a fresh bag with shiny grains
• Water: for soaking and steaming Allows the rice to soften and cook to a mild chew
• Full-fat unsweetened coconut milk: gives a luscious texture and velvet mouthfeel Pick the creamiest you can find
• Granulated sugar: brings balance and sweetness White sugar works best for a clean flavor
• Fine sea salt: lifts the coconut and fruit notes Opt for natural salt flakes
• Ripe mangoes: select two large ones that feel heavy and yield gently when pressed The sweeter the better
• Toasted sesame seeds or mung beans: an optional sprinkle for crunch and nutty aroma Always toast before topping for best flavor

Instructions

Prepare the Rice:

Rinse sticky rice thoroughly under cold water Until the water runs completely clear this ensures a clean final taste Soak the rice in plenty of water at least four hours overnight is even better for maximum tenderness

Steam the Rice:

Drain well then spoon into a cheesecloth-lined steamer basket Place over gently simmering water Cover with a lid Steam twenty-five to thirty minutes Rice should appear translucent with a hint of chew

Make Coconut Sauce:

While rice steams combine coconut milk sugar and salt in a small saucepan Warm on low stirring constantly until sugar fully dissolves Keep the mixture from boiling for best texture

Reserve and Rest:

Once the sauce is smooth remove a third of a cup for drizzling The remaining sauce stays in the pan

Dress the Rice:

Once rice is done transfer immediately into a large bowl Pour warm coconut sauce over Mixing gently with a spatula for even coating Let it rest ten to fifteen minutes covered so rice absorbs every drop

Plate and Serve:

Portion sticky rice onto serving plates Arrange ripe mango slices alongside or on top Drizzle reserved coconut sauce over Finish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crunchy mung beans if desired

Save

I am a huge fan of toasted sesame seeds for a pop of flavor My grandmother always sprinkled them on every batch her kitchen smelled like toasted nuts and coconut on festive weekends This dish became a favorite way for us to celebrate mango season together

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container Enjoy within two days for best texture Warm gently in the microwave before eating or let sit at room temperature thirty minutes Mangoes can be added just before serving Rice will dry out over time if needed add a spoonful of extra coconut milk before reheating

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap out glutinous rice for black sticky rice or even sushi rice for a different finish If you cannot find fresh mango try peaches or nectarines for a sweet-tart twist Maple syrup works in place of sugar for a deeper caramel flavor

Serving suggestions

Serve chilled for summer parties or warm for cozy winter evenings Shape the rice into small rounds for individual desserts Pair with herbal teas or Thai iced tea for authenticity

Save

Each spoonful delivers pure tropical comfort in a way only mango sticky rice pudding can Make it once and watch it become a new tradition

Recipe FAQ Section

→ What is sticky rice and why is it used?

Sticky rice, also called glutinous rice, has a chewy texture and unique stickiness that absorbs coconut sauce beautifully, making it ideal for this dessert.

→ Can I use other types of rice?

Authentic results require glutinous rice, but black sticky rice offers a dramatic color and similar texture as an alternative.

→ How do I choose the best mangoes?

Select very ripe, sweet mangoes for optimal flavor and juiciness. Thai varieties like Nam Dok Mai are especially tasty.

→ Is this dessert suitable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Always check coconut milk labels for allergens.

→ Can the coconut sauce be made ahead?

You can prepare the coconut sauce in advance and refrigerate. Gently reheat before combining with sticky rice.

→ What toppings add extra flavor or texture?

Toasted sesame seeds or cooked mung beans introduce crunch and nuttiness, enhancing the tropical flavors.