Authentic Thai Mango Sticky Rice Recipe (Khao Niew Ma-Muang)
- Praphasri Panphasom
- Jun 22
- 2 min read
Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Ma-Muang) is arguably Thailand’s most famous and beloved dessert. It perfectly combines sweet, ripe yellow mangoes with warm, salty-sweet coconut sticky rice. It is rich, creamy, and undeniably refreshing—especially during the hot summer months in Chiang Mai!
While it may look sophisticated, making the perfect mango sticky rice at home is surprisingly simple if you follow the right steps. Here is how to create this tropical treat.
Ingredients
The Sticky Rice:
200 g Glutinous rice (sticky rice)
150 ml Coconut milk
80 g Sugar
1/2 tsp Salt
1-2 Pandan leaves (for aroma)
The Toppings:
2 Ripe yellow mangoes (e.g., Nam Dok Mai variety), sliced
50 ml Coconut milk (for sauce)
1/2 tsp Salt
1 tsp Rice flour (for thickening the coconut sauce)
Toasted mung beans (yellow lentils) or toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Soak the rice: Wash the glutinous rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Soak in water for at least 3-4 hours (or overnight).
Steam the rice: Drain the soaked rice and steam it for 20-30 minutes until cooked through and translucent.
Make the coconut syrup: While the rice is steaming, combine 150 ml coconut milk, sugar, salt, and pandan leaves in a small pot over low heat. Stir until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. Do not let it boil.
Moon (Mix) the rice: Place the hot steamed rice into a bowl. Pour the warm coconut syrup over it and cover. Let it sit for 20-30 minutes so the rice can absorb all the creamy coconut goodness.
Make the topping sauce: In a small pot, simmer the remaining coconut milk with a pinch of salt and the rice flour (dissolved in a little water). Stir until slightly thickened.
Serve: Scoop the coconut sticky rice onto a plate, arrange fresh mango slices alongside, drizzle with the coconut sauce, and sprinkle with toasted mung beans. Serve warm!
Discover the Sweet Side of Thai Cuisine!
The secret to great mango sticky rice is in the "Moon" (soaking) process, ensuring every grain of rice is perfectly creamy and flavorful. Want to explore more of Thailand's incredible desserts?
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