Sticky Rice with Mango: Thailand’s Beloved Dessert

22 май 2025 г.

Sticky rice with mango, or Khao Niew Mamuang, is one of the most iconic and beloved Thai desserts. This delicious combination of warm sticky rice, fragrant coconut milk, and sweet ripe mango is a true testament to the simplicity and elegance of Thai cuisine. For travellers visiting Thailand, this dessert is a must-try, as it perfectly captures the vibrant flavours and tropical ingredients that are integral to Thai food culture.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the history of sticky rice with mango, its cultural significance in Thailand, the nutritional information, and a step-by-step recipe so you can recreate this delightful dish at home. Whether you’re a dessert enthusiast or a curious traveller, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about Khao Niew Mamuang.

The History and Cultural Significance of Sticky Rice with Mango

Sticky rice, or glutinous rice, has been a staple in Thai cuisine for centuries, particularly in the northern and northeastern regions of the country. This type of rice is known for its chewy texture and is often eaten alongside savoury dishes. However, when paired with the rich sweetness of coconut milk and the juicy tropical flavour of mango, it transforms into one of Thailand’s most famous desserts.

Mango, a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, is an essential part of Thai food culture. The combination of sticky rice and mango is typically enjoyed during the mango season, which runs from March to June in Thailand. During this time, the markets are filled with various mango varieties, making it the perfect time to enjoy Khao Niew Mamuang.

In Thai culture, sticky rice with mango is not only a popular street food dessert but also often served during festivals and celebrations. It’s seen as a symbol of abundance and happiness, making it a perfect treat for gatherings and special occasions.

Fun Fact: The Thai word for sticky rice, “Khao Niew,” literally means “sticky rice,” while “Mamuang” means mango, making Khao Niew Mamuang a straightforward name for this iconic dish!

Nutritional Information of Sticky Rice with Mango

While sticky rice with mango is undeniably delicious, it’s important to note its nutritional content, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake. This dessert is quite rich due to the coconut milk and sugar used in the preparation.

Here is a general breakdown of the nutritional value for a standard serving of sticky rice with mango (approximately 1 cup of sticky rice and half a mango):

• Calories: 300-400 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 60-70 grams (primarily from the sticky rice and mango)

• Protein: 4-6 grams

• Fat: 7-10 grams (mainly from the coconut milk)

• Fibre: 4-5 grams (from the mango)

• Sugar: 25-30 grams (from the mango and added sugar)

While this dish is a bit high in calories and sugar, it’s also packed with nutrients like vitamin C from the mango and healthy fats from the coconut milk. Additionally, sticky rice is naturally gluten-free, making this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Fun Fact: Mangoes are a great source of vitamins A and C, which help boost your immune system and promote healthy skin.

How to Make Sticky Rice with Mango (Khao Niew Mamuang)

If you’re craving a taste of Thailand at home, making Khao Niew Mamuang is easier than you might think! The key to this dessert lies in the proper preparation of the sticky rice and the perfect balance of sweetness in the coconut sauce.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 1 cup glutinous (sticky) rice

• 1 ¼ cup coconut milk (unsweetened)

• 4 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

• Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sticky Rice: Rinse the sticky rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures a proper texture. Soak the rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.

2. Steam the Rice: Drain the soaked rice and place it in a steamer. Steam the rice over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes until it becomes tender and translucent. You can also use a rice cooker if it has a setting for sticky rice.

3. Make the Coconut Sauce: While the rice is steaming, heat the coconut milk in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the sugar and salt, and cook until the sugar has dissolved completely. Be careful not to let the mixture boil. Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and set aside.

4. Mix the Sticky Rice with Coconut Sauce: Once the sticky rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Slowly pour about ¾ of the coconut sauce over the rice while gently stirring to coat the rice evenly. Cover the bowl and let the rice absorb the sauce for about 10 minutes.

5. Prepare the Mangoes: While the rice is resting, peel and slice the mangoes. Thai mangoes are typically soft and sweet, but you can use any ripe mango variety available.

6. Assemble the Dish: Serve the sticky rice alongside the mango slices on a plate. Drizzle the remaining coconut sauce over the rice and top with toasted sesame seeds for an added crunch. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

7. Enjoy: Your homemade sticky rice with mango is now ready to serve! Enjoy this sweet and fragrant dessert with friends or family.

Fun Fact: In Thailand, sticky rice with mango is often served with a small spoon or fork, but many locals prefer to eat it with their hands for a more authentic experience.

Variations of Sticky Rice with Mango

While the classic recipe remains a favourite, there are a few variations of Khao Niew Mamuang that you can try depending on your taste preferences or dietary needs:

1. Black Sticky Rice with Mango: For a more nutritious twist, try using black glutinous rice, which has a slightly nuttier flavour and contains more fibre and antioxidants than white sticky rice.

2. Coconut Cream Mango: Some versions of this dessert use a thicker coconut cream sauce instead of regular coconut milk for an even richer flavour.

3. Vegan Sticky Rice with Mango: This dish is naturally vegan, but you can ensure that the sugar used is vegan-friendly by opting for unrefined or raw sugar.

4. Mango Sticky Rice Ice Cream: A modern twist on this traditional dessert involves turning the sticky rice into an ice cream topping or incorporating the ingredients into a frozen dessert.

Why Travellers Love Sticky Rice with Mango

For travellers, sticky rice with mango is often one of the first desserts they try when visiting Thailand. Its refreshing and sweet flavour provides the perfect ending to a spicy Thai meal, and its simple ingredients make it accessible to a wide range of palates. You’ll find sticky rice with mango sold at street food stalls, in restaurants, and even at high-end establishments across Thailand, making it a dessert that can be enjoyed by all.

Fun Fact: During the Thai New Year festival, Songkran, sticky rice with mango is a popular dessert, as it’s seen as a dish that brings joy and celebration to family gatherings.

Conclusion

Sticky rice with mango, or Khao Niew Mamuang, is more than just a dessert; it’s a representation of Thailand’s rich culinary culture. The combination of sweet, juicy mango with fragrant coconut sticky rice makes for a dish that is both satisfying and deeply connected to Thailand’s food traditions. Whether you’re visiting Thailand or trying your hand at making this delicious dessert at home, Khao Niew Mamuang is a sweet treat that you’ll want to enjoy again and again.

Have you tried sticky rice with mango during your travels or made it at home? Share your experiences in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this blog on your social media, and make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, where we’ll be bringing this recipe to life with a video tutorial.

References:

• Lonely Planet: “A Taste of Thailand’s Sweet Treats”

• National Geographic: “The Evolution of Thailand’s Street Food”

• Thai Culinary Institute: “Mastering Sticky Rice Desserts”