Mango Sago Pudding

Mango Sago Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the creaminess of coconut milk, the sweetness and tang of ripe mango, and the unique texture of sago pearls. This dessert is popular throughout Southeast Asia and is often enjoyed during warmer months due to its refreshing taste. It is believed that the origins of this pudding extend back to the mingling of tropical ingredients that were prevalent in regional Asian cooking, with influences possibly coming from both Chinese and Malaysian cuisines.

Ingredients

• Mango (2 large, ripe)
• Sago pearls (1/2 cup)
• Coconut milk (1 cup)
• Water (1 cup)
• Sugar (1/4 cup, or to taste)
• Condensed milk (1/4 cup, optional)
• Mint leaves (for garnish)

Preparation Steps

Stage 1: Preparing the Sago

First, rinse the sago pearls under running water to remove excess starch. Boil 1 cup of water in a pot and add the rinsed sago. Cook on medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 10 minutes until the sago turns translucent. Use a cooking timer for precise timing. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop further cooking. Set aside.

Stage 2: Preparing the Mango Puree

While the sago cools, peel and cut the mango into cubes. Reserve a few cubes for garnish. In a blender, add the mango cubes and blend until smooth. You can choose to add some sugar if you prefer a sweeter pudding, depending on the sweetness of the mango.

Stage 3: Mixing the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and condensed milk. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. If you prefer a chilled dessert, refrigerate this mixture for 30 minutes.

Stage 4: Combining All Components

Gently fold the sago into the chilled coconut milk mixture until well combined. Next, swirl in the pureed mango, leaving some streaks of pulp for a beautiful visual effect. Pour the mixture into serving glasses or bowls.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish with the reserved mango cubes and mint leaves. Serve the Mango Sago Pudding chilled for maximum refreshment. Optionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top can add an extra level of indulgence. This pudding makes a wonderful ending to a summertime meal, offering a taste of the tropics with each spoonful.