The Ultimate Guide to Making Thai Sticky Rice with Mangoes (Khao Niew Mamuang)

Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of Thai cuisine? If you love the sweet and creamy combination of sticky rice and ripe mango, you’re in for a treat! Today, we’re sharing one of the best Thai dessert recipes: Thai Sticky Rice with Mangoes, also known as Khao Niew Mamuang. This easy recipe balances sweetness and texture, making it an unforgettable dish that you can serve at any occasion, from summer parties to cozy family dinners.

A Sweet Tradition

Khao Niew Mamuang is a popular dessert in Thailand, especially during the mango season from April to June. Locals and tourists alike rave about this dish, which is not only delicious but also visually stunning. The contrasting colors of vibrant yellow mango and white sticky rice make it a jaw-dropping addition to any meal. Plus, it showcases the Thai philosophy of balancing flavors—sweet, salty, and creamy—on a single plate. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients

To make this fantastic Thai Sticky Rice with Mangoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Sticky Rice:

• 2 cups of glutinous rice (sticky rice)
• 1 1/2 cups of coconut milk
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt

For the Mango:

• 2-3 ripe mangoes (preferably Sweet Nam Dok Mai or other varieties if unavailable)

For the Topping (optional):

• 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds or mung beans for garnish

Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to make this delightful dessert!

Step 1: Prepare the Sticky Rice

1. Soak the Rice: Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

2. Steam the Rice: Drain the soaked rice and place it in a bamboo steamer lined with cheesecloth or a heat-safe pan. Steam for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.

Step 2: Make the Coconut Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat it over low heat until the sugar dissolves, but do not bring it to a boil.

2. Mix with Sticky Rice: Once the rice is done steaming, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour about 1 cup of the warm coconut sauce over the hot sticky rice and mix gently, being careful not to crush the grains. Cover and let it sit for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Mango

1. Slice the Mango: Peel the mangoes and cut them into thin slices or cubes, ensuring they are ripe for maximum sweetness.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate It Up: To serve, place a generous scoop of the sticky rice on a plate, and arrange the mango slices beside it. Drizzle with more warm coconut sauce, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or mung beans if desired.

Tips and Variations

• Make It Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly! Just ensure all your ingredients, especially sugar, are vegan-certified if this is a concern.

• Experiment with Toppings: Add crushed peanuts, black sesame seeds, or even coconut flakes to enhance textures and flavors.

• Try Different Fruits: While mango is traditional, feel free to experiment with other fruits like bananas or strawberries for a twist!

Conclusion

There you have it—the best Thai Sticky Rice with Mangoes (Khao Niew Mamuang) recipe that is not only easy to make but sure to impress your guests! This dessert is perfect for hot days, special celebrations, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try it and let us know how it turned out by sharing your experience in the comments. Happy cooking! 🍚🥭