Sweet glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk is the base of this classic Thai dessert, served alongside slices of fresh ripe mango. The rice is steamed until tender, then soaked in a salted coconut cream sauce that balances the sweetness of the fruit. The whole dish takes roughly an hour, with most of that time spent soaking and steaming the rice.
Rinse the glutinous rice several times until water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 2 hours or overnight for better results.
Drain the soaked rice and place it in a steamer lined with cheesecloth. Steam for 25-30 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and has a glossy sheen.
In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium flame until sugar is fully dissolved, but avoid boiling.
Transfer the cooked sticky rice to a mixing bowl and gradually stir in the coconut milk mixture. Cover and let the rice absorb the coconut milk for 30 minutes.
Slice the mangoes thinly, arranging them beautifully on a plate alongside the sticky rice.
Garnish the dish with toasted sesame seeds.
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Notes
Tammy’s Tips:
For a slightly nutty flavor, you can substitute a portion of the coconut milk with unsweetened almond milk.
To keep the rice from getting mushy, ensure it's not over-steamed, maintaining a subtle bite.
Serving Suggestions:
Present the dish on a banana leaf for an authentic touch.
Pair it with a light jasmine tea to complement the tropical flavors.
Culinary Context:
This dessert is a staple in Thai cuisine, symbolizing prosperity and offering a taste of the country's rich culinary tradition. Often served during royal rituals, it's a dish that tells a story of luxury in simplicity.