How to Make Mango Sticky Rice (Recipe Guide)

Few desserts capture the essence of tropical indulgence quite like Mango Sticky Rice, Thailand’s most iconic sweet treat. This simple yet luxurious dish pairs sweet, ripe mango slices with perfectly cooked sticky rice drenched in rich coconut milk. It’s a harmonious balance of textures and flavors—warm, creamy, chewy rice meets the cool, juicy sweetness of mango in every bite.

Rooted in Thai culinary tradition, Mango Sticky Rice is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of seasonal produce and mindful preparation. Traditionally served during mango season in the spring and early summer, it has become a beloved dish worldwide for its elegance and comfort. It’s incredibly easy to make at home and requires just a handful of ingredients, making it perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make authentic Mango Sticky Rice from scratch using traditional techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this step-by-step recipe will help you recreate the tropical magic of Thailand in your own home.

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Best Time to Eat & What to Serve with Mango Sticky Rice

Mango Sticky Rice is best enjoyed as a light dessert after lunch or dinner, especially during warmer months when fresh mangoes are at their peak. It’s also a great treat for mid-afternoon snack times, especially if you’re hosting a tropical-themed meal or craving something sweet but not overly heavy.

For a complete Southeast Asian dessert spread, serve it alongside Thai iced tea or lemongrass-infused herbal drinks. Garnish your dish with a drizzle of thickened coconut cream and a sprinkle of toasted mung beans or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.

Whether served at a dinner party or as a personal indulgence, Mango Sticky Rice is a refreshing, satisfying, and easy-to-love dessert that brings a taste of Thailand to your table.

How to Make Mango Sticky Rice

Mango Sticky Rice Recipe Ingredients

1 cup glutinous rice (also known as sticky rice)
1 1/2 cups water
1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds or mung beans for garnish (optional)

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Step By Step How to Make Mango Sticky Rice

Step 1 – Prepare the Rice

Rinse the glutinous rice until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This step is crucial as it softens the rice and ensures even cooking. Drain the rice and cook it in a rice cooker or on the stovetop.

If using a rice cooker combine the drained rice with 1 1/2 cups of water in a pot, bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 2 – Make the Coconut Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Do not let it boil to prevent the coconut milk from curdling. Divide the Sauce: Separate about 1/4 cup of the coconut milk sauce to use as a topping when serving.

Step 3 – Mix Rice and Sauce

While the rice is still hot, add the remaining coconut milk sauce. Stir gently to mix thoroughly. Cover the rice and let it sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the rice to absorb the coconut milk.

Step 4 – Serve

While the rice is absorbing the sauce, peel and slice the mangoes. Scoop a portion of the sticky rice onto a serving dish. Arrange mango slices around or on top of the rice.

Drizzle the reserved coconut milk sauce over the rice and mango and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or mung beans over the top for added texture and flavor.

Tips To Make Mango Sticky Rice

Use ripe mangoes that are sweet and slightly soft to the touch. The rice should be sticky and moist but not overly wet. Adjust the amount of coconut milk sauce if necessary. Mango sticky rice can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

How Many Calories Has A Mango Sticky Rice

About 1 cup of cooked glutinous rice contains approximately 300 calories. Coconut Milk is around 550 calories. Sugar: 1/2 cup of sugar adds about 400 calories. Mango is approximately 200 calories. and toasted sesame seeds is around 10-20 calories.

The total calories per serving of Mango sticky rice is about 365 to 420 calories.