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Sticky Rice with Coconut Sauce Recipe

4.8 from 116 reviews

This traditional Thai-inspired Sticky Rice with Coconut Sauce recipe features tender glutinous rice steamed to perfection and coated in a rich, creamy coconut sauce. Naturally sweetened with sugar or honey and flavored with vanilla or coconut extract, this dish can be served warm with ripe mango slices for a delightful tropical treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Sticky Rice

  • 1 cup sticky rice (glutinous rice)

Coconut Sauce

  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1/3 cup sugar or honey
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract or coconut flavor

For Serving (Optional)

  • 1 ripe mango, sliced

Instructions

  1. Rinse the Sticky Rice: Begin by rinsing the sticky rice under cold water until the water runs clear, which removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming overly sticky.
  2. Soak the Rice: Place the rinsed rice in a bowl and cover with water. Soak for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure even cooking and achieve the perfect sticky texture.
  3. Drain and Steam: Drain the soaked rice and transfer it to a steamer basket lined with cheesecloth. Steam the rice for 20-25 minutes until tender, making sure the rice is spread evenly for uniform cooking.
  4. Prepare the Coconut Sauce: In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar or honey, salt, and vanilla extract. Heat gently over low heat while stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves, avoiding boiling to maintain creaminess.
  5. Combine Rice and Sauce: After cooking, transfer the steamed rice to a large bowl. Pour half of the coconut sauce over the rice and stir to combine. Let the rice absorb the sauce for a few minutes to enhance flavor.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the sticky rice warm with the remaining coconut sauce drizzled on top. Garnish with sliced ripe mango for a refreshing and colorful finish.

Notes

  • For best texture, ensure the rice is soaked long enough to become fully hydrated.
  • Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamier sauce.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar or honey according to taste.
  • If a steamer basket is not available, you can use a rice cooker with a steaming tray or improvise with a heatproof colander over a pot of boiling water.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free but verify ingredients if you have sensitivities.
  • Leftover sticky rice can be refrigerated and reheated by steaming or microwaving with a little water.

Keywords: sticky rice, coconut sauce, Thai dessert, glutinous rice, mango sticky rice, coconut milk, steamed rice dessert