Mango Sticky Rice is a beloved Thai dessert made with sweet glutinous rice soaked in rich coconut milk, paired with ripe, juicy mango slices, and topped with a drizzle of creamy coconut sauce. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tropical flavors with a chewy, comforting texture — a simple yet indulgent treat often enjoyed chilled.
Ingredients
For the sticky rice:
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1 cup glutinous (sweet) rice
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1 ½ cups water
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½ cup coconut milk
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⅓ cup sugar
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¼ tsp salt
For the coconut sauce:
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½ cup coconut milk
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2 tsp sugar
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⅛ tsp salt
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1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Toppings:
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1–2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
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Toasted mung beans or sesame seeds (optional)
Execution
1. Soak the Rice
Soak glutinous rice in water for 4+ hours (or overnight). This ensures soft, sticky grains.
2. Cook the Rice
Drain the soaked rice and steam in a cheesecloth-lined bamboo steamer for 20-25 minutes until tender and pleasantly sticky.
3. Make the Coconut Sauce (Base)
During the rice’s steaming time, prepare the coconut mixture: In a saucepan, warm ½ cup coconut milk with ⅓ cup sugar and ¼ tsp salt over medium heat. Stir continuously just until sugar dissolves – careful not to let it boil, as this may cause separation.
4. Mix Rice with Coconut Milk
Place the hot steamed rice into a bowl. Pour the warm coconut mixture over the rice and gently mix. Cover and let it sit for 20–30 minutes so the rice absorbs the coconut flavor.
5. Make the Topping Sauce
Heat ½ cup coconut milk with 2 tsp sugar and a pinch of salt. Optional: stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) for a thicker sauce. Cook until slightly thickened.
6. Assemble
Scoop sticky rice onto a plate, top with fresh sliced mango, and drizzle the coconut sauce over everything. Sprinkle with toasted mung beans or sesame seeds for added crunch.
Additional Tips
✔ Use ripe Ataulfo or Nam Dok Mai mangoes for the best flavor — they’re sweet, fragrant, and buttery.
✔ Don’t substitute glutinous rice with regular rice — it won’t get that chewy sticky texture.
✔ Avoid boiling coconut milk — it can curdle or turn oily.
✔ No steamer? Make a steamer by setting a colander over simmering water and covering tightly with foil or a lid.
Q&A About Mango Sticky Rice
Q1: Can I use regular white rice instead of glutinous (sticky) rice?
A: No — regular rice won’t give the chewy, sticky texture essential for this dessert. You’ll need glutinous or sweet rice, commonly labeled as “sticky rice” or “Thai sweet rice.”
Q2: How do I determine when a mango is perfectly ripe?
A: Look for Ataulfo or Nam Dok Mai mangoes. They should feel slightly soft, smell sweet near the stem, and have deep golden skin with minimal green.
Q3: Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
A: Yes! You can prep the sticky rice and coconut sauce 1–2 days ahead and store them in the fridge. Store mango separately and slice fresh for best texture.
Q4: How do I reheat sticky rice without drying it out?
A: Lightly sprinkle with water and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 20–30 seconds until soft.
Q5: Is there a vegan version?
A: Good news — it’s naturally vegan! Just be sure your coconut milk and sugar don’t have additives or animal-based ingredients.
Q6: Can I freeze mango sticky rice?
A: Not recommended. The rice becomes hard and the mango turns mushy when thawed. Best to refrigerate and eat within 3–4 days.
Q7: What can I use if I don’t have a steamer?
A: Place a metal sieve or colander over a pot of boiling water, line with cheesecloth or a clean towel, and cover with a lid or foil to steam the rice.
Why You Should Make This Recipe
Mango Sticky Rice is more than just a dessert — it’s a tropical comfort food that brings together sweet, creamy, and fragrant flavors in every bite. With only a few simple ingredients, it delivers impressive results that feel indulgent yet naturally wholesome.
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🍚 Easy to Make – No oven, no fancy tools — just a steamer and a saucepan.
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🥭 Seasonal & Fresh – A perfect way to use ripe mangoes when they’re in season.
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🌱 Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free – Great for sharing with guests who have dietary restrictions.
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🇹🇭 Cultural Favorite – Brings a taste of Thai cuisine into your home, whether for a casual night or a special occasion.
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❄️ Meal-Prep Friendly – Make it in advance and enjoy it chilled for days.
This is that magic dessert – the one that earns disbelieving looks and ‘You MADE this?!’ reactions.
Happy Cooking
Diana
