Mango Sticky Rice
Mango Sticky Rice, known as "Khao Niew Mamuang" in Thai, is a popular traditional Thai dessert. It's a sweet and savory treat perfect for enjoying the tropical flavors of ripe mango combined with creamy coconut-flavored sticky rice. This dessert is prominently featured in Thai culture, often enjoyed during the peak mango season in the summer months. With its origins in Southeast Asia, Mango Sticky Rice has transcended beyond Thailand, becoming beloved worldwide by those enamored with its unique flavor profile and textural delights.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of glutinous rice
- 1 1/2 cups of coconut milk
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 ripe mangoes
- 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds or mung beans (optional)
Preparation
Preparing the Rice
Start by soaking the glutinous rice in water for at least 4 to 6 hours, or preferably overnight. This soaking process is essential for achieving the soft and chewy texture characteristic of sticky rice. Once soaked, drain the rice thoroughly.
Cooking the Sticky Rice
Steam the soaked rice using a conventional steamer or a bamboo steamer lined with cheesecloth. Steam until the rice turns translucent and is tender but with a slight chew. This should take around 25 to 30 minutes. Use a cooking timer to keep track of cooking times.
Preparing the Coconut Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and salt over low heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. Be careful not to let the mixture boil as this can affect the texture of the coconut milk.
Combining the Ingredients
Once the sticky rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and pour about 2/3 of the warm coconut milk mixture over it. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the rice is fully coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit for about 30 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the coconut milk mixture. This process is what gives the rice its flavorful and luscious texture.
Serving
Peel and slice the ripe mangoes into thin strips. Arrange the slices alongside the sticky rice on a serving plate. Drizzle the remaining coconut milk sauce generously over the rice and top with toasted sesame seeds or mung beans for added texture and visual appeal.
Enjoying Mango Sticky Rice
Mango Sticky Rice is best enjoyed fresh. The combination of the cool, juicy slices of mango and the warm, sweet, and slightly salty sticky rice is nothing short of delightful. The texture contrast between the creamy, aromatic rice and the succulent mango creates an unforgettable culinary experience, one that's bound to become a favorite in any dessert repertoire. Serve this dish at room temperature or slightly chilled for the optimal taste experience. Embrace a piece of Thailand with every bite of this heavenly dessert.