Easy Mango Sticky Rice Recipe

Mango Sticky Rice, or Khao Niew Mamuang, is a beloved Thai dessert that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes and sticky rice. This dessert is not only delicious but also gluten-free and easy to prepare at home.
Whether you’re craving a tropical treat or want to impress your guests, this recipe will guide you through making the perfect Mango Sticky Rice.
Let’s dive into the details!
Recipe Preparation Equipment
Before you start, gather the following tools:
- A medium-sized saucepan
- A rice steamer or bamboo steamer
- A mixing bowl
- A sharp knife and cutting board
- A small pot for heating coconut milk
- Measuring cups and spoons
What Do You Need to Prepare Mango Sticky Rice?
Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:
Ingredients
- For the Sticky Rice:
- 1 cup glutinous rice (also called sticky rice or sweet rice)
- 1 ½ cups water (for soaking)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- For the Coconut Sauce:
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- For Serving:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds or mung beans (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Easy Mango Sticky Rice Step-by-Step ?

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Mango Sticky Rice:
Step 1: Soak the Rice
- Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Soak the rice in 1 ½ cups of water for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step ensures the rice becomes sticky and tender when cooked.
Step 2: Steam the Rice
- Drain the soaked rice and place it in a steamer basket lined with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel.
- Steam the rice over boiling water for 20-25 minutes, or until the grains are translucent and tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Milk Mixture
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of coconut milk, ½ cup sugar, and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Do not let it boil.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Coconut Milk
- Transfer the steamed rice to a mixing bowl.
- Pour the warm coconut milk mixture over the rice and gently fold it in. Let the rice absorb the liquid for 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Make the Coconut Sauce
- In the same saucepan, combine ½ cup coconut milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
- Heat the mixture until warm and well-combined. Set aside for drizzling.
Step 6: Prepare the Mangoes
- Peel and slice the mangoes into thin, even pieces.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
- Place a portion of the sticky rice on a plate.
- Arrange the mango slices beside the rice.
- Drizzle the coconut sauce over the rice and mangoes.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or mung beans if desired.
Variations
- Vegan Option: Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a vegan-friendly version.
- Colorful Twist: Add a drop of natural food coloring (like pandan extract) to the coconut milk mixture for green sticky rice.
- Fruit Swap: Replace mangoes with other tropical fruits like papaya or pineapple.
- Nutty Flavor: Add crushed peanuts or cashews for extra crunch.
Cooking Notes
- Use glutinous rice specifically, as regular rice won’t achieve the same sticky texture.
- Ensure the mangoes are ripe but firm for the best flavor and presentation.
- If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a colander placed over a pot of boiling water.
- The coconut milk mixture should be warm, not boiling, to prevent curdling.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Mango Sticky Rice as a dessert after a Thai-inspired meal.
- Pair it with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Helpful Tips
- Soak the rice for at least 4 hours to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the coconut milk mixture.
- Toast sesame seeds or mung beans lightly for added aroma and crunch.
Tips for the Best Mango Sticky Rice
- Choose Ataulfo or Champagne mangoes for their sweetness and creamy texture.
- Keep the rice covered while steaming to retain moisture.
- Serve the dessert immediately after assembling for the best texture and flavor.
Related Recipes :
- How to Make French Vanilla Creamer at Home ?
- Easy Churro Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
- Easy Snickers Caramel Apple Salad Recipe
- How to Make a Delicious Cherry Smoothie ?
- Easy Mango Sorbet Recipe
FAQs
1. Can I use regular rice instead of glutinous rice?
No, glutinous rice is essential for the sticky texture. Regular rice won’t work.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store the rice and mangoes separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the rice gently before serving.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice and coconut sauce ahead of time, but assemble the dessert just before serving.
4. Is Mango Sticky Rice gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
Mango Sticky Rice is a delightful dessert that brings the flavors of Thailand to your kitchen. With its creamy coconut-infused rice, sweet mangoes, and simple preparation, it’s a treat that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you to create a dessert that’s sure to impress.
Try it today and enjoy a taste of the tropics!
Print
Easy Mango Sticky Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
-
For the Sticky Rice:
-
1 cup glutinous rice (also called sticky rice or sweet rice)
-
1 ½ cups water (for soaking)
-
1 cup coconut milk
-
½ cup granulated sugar
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
-
For the Coconut Sauce:
-
½ cup coconut milk
-
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
-
¼ teaspoon salt
-
-
For Serving:
-
2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
-
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds or mung beans (optional, for garnish)
-
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Rice
- Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Soak the rice in 1 ½ cups of water for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step ensures the rice becomes sticky and tender when cooked.
Step 2: Steam the Rice
- Drain the soaked rice and place it in a steamer basket lined with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel.
- Steam the rice over boiling water for 20-25 minutes, or until the grains are translucent and tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Milk Mixture
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of coconut milk, ½ cup sugar, and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Do not let it boil.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Coconut Milk
- Transfer the steamed rice to a mixing bowl.
- Pour the warm coconut milk mixture over the rice and gently fold it in. Let the rice absorb the liquid for 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Make the Coconut Sauce
- In the same saucepan, combine ½ cup coconut milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
- Heat the mixture until warm and well-combined. Set aside for drizzling.
Step 6: Prepare the Mangoes
- Peel and slice the mangoes into thin, even pieces.
- Step 7: Assemble and Serve
- Place a portion of the sticky rice on a plate.
- Arrange the mango slices beside the rice.
- Drizzle the coconut sauce over the rice and mangoes.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or mung beans if desired.
- Prep Time: 4 hours (including soaking)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Americans
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Sodium: 150mg
- Protein: 4g
Keywords: Easy Mango Sticky Rice Recipe