Mango Sticky Rice Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet, juicy mangoes and creamy, coconut-infused sticky rice. Every bite is a perfect balance of flavors—mildly salty, richly sweet, and wonderfully fragrant.

If you’ve ever traveled to Thailand, you’ve likely come across this iconic street food dessert. But the good news is, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy it—you can make it right at home!

I remember the first time I tried mango sticky rice on a warm summer evening. The tropical aroma of ripe mangoes, the comforting chewiness of the rice, and the luscious coconut sauce made it an unforgettable experience. Since then, it has become a must-make treat whenever mango season arrives.

This recipe is simple and requires only a few ingredients, yet the result is something truly indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a light, refreshing dessert, mango sticky rice is the perfect choice. Let’s dive in and make this delightful Thai classic!

Why You’ll Love It

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires just a few ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for beginners.
• Naturally Sweet & Refreshing: The natural sweetness of ripe mangoes pairs beautifully with the rich coconut-infused rice.
• Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: This dessert is naturally gluten and dairy free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer treat, a special celebration, or just a way to enjoy seasonal mangoes, this dish is always a hit!

Ingredient List

For the Sticky Rice:

• 1 cup glutinous rice (also called sticky rice)
• 1 ½ cups water (for soaking and cooking)

For the Coconut Sauce:

• 1 cup coconut milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For Serving:

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds or mung beans (for garnish, optional)
• Extra coconut sauce (for drizzling)

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Medium bowl (for soaking rice)
• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)
• Steamer or rice cooker (for cooking sticky rice)
• Small saucepan (for making coconut sauce)
• Mixing spoon or whisk
• Sharp knife (for slicing mangoes)
• Serving plates or bowls

Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Rice

• Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
• Place the rice in a bowl and cover with water. Let it soak for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Step 2: Cook the Sticky Rice

• Drain the soaked rice using a fine mesh strainer.
• Steam the rice in a bamboo or metal steamer for 25-30 minutes, or until tender. If using a rice cooker, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for sticky rice.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Sauce

• In a small saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt.
• Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves. Do not let it boil.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce. Stir until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Mix the Rice with Coconut Sauce

• Transfer the cooked sticky rice to a bowl and gradually pour half of the warm coconut sauce over it.
• Stir gently and cover the bowl with a lid. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

• Slice the mangoes into thin strips or cubes.
• Divide the sticky rice into serving portions and top with mango slices.
• Drizzle with the remaining coconut sauce and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or mung beans.
• Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips and Tricks for Success

1. Use the Right Rice: Glutinous rice (also called sticky rice or sweet rice) is essential for this recipe. Regular rice won’t work the same way.
2. Soaking is Key: Don’t skip soaking the rice, as it ensures the perfect soft and chewy texture.
3. Steam for Best Results: While some rice cookers have a sticky rice setting, steaming gives the most authentic texture.
4. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can increase the sugar slightly in the coconut sauce.
5. Serve Fresh: Mango sticky rice tastes best when freshly made. However, you can store leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
6. Use Ripe Mangoes: Choose fragrant, ripe mangoes for the best flavor. Varieties like Ataulfo or Thai mangoes work wonderfully.
7. Customize Toppings: Try adding crushed peanuts, coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of honey for extra texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Glutinous Rice Alternative: If you can’t find glutinous rice, sushi rice is the closest substitute, though the texture will be slightly different.
• Coconut Milk Replacement: For a non-coconut version, you can use almond milk or oat milk with a bit of extra sweetener.
• Sugar Alternatives: Swap granulated sugar with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Cornstarch Substitute: If thickening the sauce, you can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch instead of cornstarch.

Variations

• Chocolate Mango Sticky Rice: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a rich twist.
• Pandan-Infused Rice: Add a pandan leaf while cooking the coconut sauce for a fragrant, Southeast Asian twist.
• Mango Sticky Rice Popsicles: Blend mango and sticky rice into molds with coconut milk for a frozen treat.
• Berry Twist: Swap mangoes with fresh berries for a different fruity flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture.
• Garnish with extra coconut flakes, crushed peanuts, or even edible flowers for an elegant presentation.
• Pair with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.
• Enjoy with Thai iced tea or a refreshing coconut drink for a full tropical experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftover sticky rice in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To restore the texture, gently steam or microwave the rice with a splash of coconut milk to soften it.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of sticky rice changes when frozen.

FAQ

1. Can I use regular rice for this recipe?
No, regular rice does not have the same sticky texture. Glutinous rice is essential for authentic results.

2. What if I don’t have a steamer?
You can use a rice cooker with a sticky rice setting or a colander lined with cheesecloth placed over a pot of boiling water.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sticky rice and coconut sauce separately and store them in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

4. How do I pick the best mangoes?
Look for mangoes that are slightly soft when pressed and have a sweet aroma.

5. Can I reduce the sugar in the coconut sauce?
Yes, adjust the sugar to your preference. You can also use natural sweeteners like honey.

6. What toppings go well with mango sticky rice?
Toasted sesame seeds, mung beans, coconut flakes, or even crushed peanuts add great texture.

7. Can I use canned mangoes?
Fresh mangoes are best, but canned mangoes can be used in a pinch.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!