Thai Sweet Sticky Rice with Mango (Khao Neeo Mamuang)
A beloved Thai dessert featuring glutinous rice cooked in sweetened coconut milk and served with fresh mango slices. The rice becomes creamy and fragrant while maintaining a pleasant chewy texture. A drizzle of coconut sauce and toasted sesame seeds complete this tropical treat that's perfect for warm weather or as an elegant ending to a Thai meal. This version balances the natural sweetness of ripe mangos with the rich coconut flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 ½ cups glutinous sticky white rice, uncooked, rinsed
- 2 cups coconut milk, divided
- 1 cup white sugar, or to taste
- ¾ teaspoon salt, divided
- 1 tablespoon white sugar, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon tapioca starch
- 3 mangos, peeled and slicedother tropical fruits1:1fruit
papaya or pineapple work well
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- 1
Gather all ingredients
- 2
Combine water and rice in a saucepan and bring to a boil
- 3
Cover and reduce heat to low, simmer until water is absorbed
- 4
Combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt in another saucepan
- 5
Bring coconut milk mixture to a boil over medium heat then remove from heat
- 6
Stir cooked rice into coconut milk mixture and cover
- 7
Allow to cool
- 8
Make sauce by combining remaining coconut milk, sugar, salt, and tapioca starch in saucepan
- 9
Bring sauce to a boil and cook until thickened
- 10
Place coconut rice on serving dish and arrange mangos on top
- 11
Pour sauce over mangos and rice
- 12
Sprinkle with sesame seeds
Tips
Use ripe but firm mangos for the best texture and sweetness balance.
Rinse the glutinous rice until water runs clear to remove excess starch.
Let the rice cool completely to allow the coconut milk to fully absorb.
Good to Know
Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Best served at room temperature.
Rice can be prepared 1 day ahead. Prepare sauce fresh before serving.
Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled for best texture.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip rinsing the rice to avoid gummy texture
Don't rush the cooling process to ensure proper absorption
Substitutions
papaya or pineapple work well
FAQ
Can I use regular rice instead of glutinous rice?
No, glutinous rice is essential for the proper sticky texture. Regular rice won't provide the same chewy consistency that defines this dessert.
How long does this keep in the refrigerator?
The sticky rice keeps for up to 3 days refrigerated. The texture is best within the first day, but it remains safe and tasty longer.
Can I make this without tapioca starch?
You can substitute cornstarch in equal amounts, or omit it for a thinner sauce. The starch helps create the glossy coating.