Imagine biting into something that's sweet, creamy, and just a little tart, all while being perfectly portioned for easy serving. Sounds like dessert magic, right? That’s exactly what Mango Sticky Rice Cups are! Inspired by the iconic Thai dessert, khao neow mamuang, this mini version transforms a traditional treat into a convenient, adorable single-serve format. Not only are they visually stunning, but they also pack all the flavors of the classic dish.
Whether you're hosting a party or looking for a unique end to a meal, these Mango Sticky Rice Cups bring a touch of Southeast Asia to your table while being portable and fun to eat.
What Makes Mango Sticky Rice Special?
Mango Sticky Rice is a beloved dessert in Thai cuisine, known for its simplicity and harmony of flavors. The combination of fragrant glutinous rice cooked in sweet coconut cream, ripe mango slices, and a drizzle of salty-sweet coconut sauce creates a balance that's irresistible. Its roots run deep in Thai culture, often served during mango season and at celebrations as a delightful finale to a meal.
What makes the cup version so special is that it keeps all the authentic flavors while modernizing the presentation. These individual servings are perfect for casual gatherings, dinner parties, or even grabbing on the go. Plus, creating them is far easier than you'd think!
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Sticky Rice:
- 1 cup glutinous (sweet) rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Coconut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (to thicken)
To Assemble:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled, pitted, and sliced
- Optional toppings: toasted sesame seeds, crushed toasted peanuts, or mung beans
- Leafy greens (like banana leaves or cupcake liners) for lining cups (optional for presentation)
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prepare the Sticky Rice
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch for a better texture.
- Steam the Rice: Place the rice in a steamer lined with cheesecloth (or use a fine-mesh sieve) and steam it for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Make the Coconut Mixture: While the rice steams, heat 1 cup of coconut milk, sugar, and salt in a saucepan on low heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Do not boil.
- Mix Rice with Coconut Cream: Once the rice is ready, transfer it to a heatproof bowl. Pour the sweet coconut milk mixture over it. Stir gently to combine, then cover and allow the rice to absorb the flavors for about 20 minutes.
2. Make the Coconut Sauce
- Heat the Coconut Milk: Add 1/2 cup of coconut milk, sugar, and salt to a small saucepan and heat on low.
- Thicken the Sauce: Mix the cornstarch and water into a smooth slurry, then pour it into the coconut milk. Stir frequently until the sauce thickens slightly. Set aside to cool.
3. Assemble the Mango Sticky Rice Cups
- Line the Cups (Optional): If using banana leaves or cupcake liners, line the cups for a traditional touch and easy handling.
- Layer the Sticky Rice: Press a generous spoonful of the sticky rice mixture into the bottom of each cup.
- Add Mango Slices: Arrange a few slices of ripe mango on top of the rice.
- Drizzle with Coconut Sauce: Pour a small spoonful of the coconut sauce over the mango and rice.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, peanuts, or mung beans for added texture and flavor.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Mango Sticky Rice Cups are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. They can also be made a few hours ahead and stored in the fridge, though it’s best to add the sauce and garnishes just before serving.
Tips for Mango Sticky Rice Success
- Choose the Right Rice: Only use glutinous rice for this recipe. Regular rice will not have the right sticky texture.
- Use Ripe Mangoes: The sweetness of the mango is key to balancing the richness of the coconut. Look for golden-yellow Ataulfo or ripe Thai mangoes for the best results.
- Don’t Skimp on the Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk is what gives this dish its creamy, luscious flavor. Light versions won't have the same richness.
Variations and Serving Ideas
- Tropical Twist: Add other tropical fruits like pineapple cubes, papaya slices, or even kiwi for an extra pop of color.
- Nutty Delight: Replace the toasted sesame seeds with chopped macadamia nuts or almonds for crunch.
- Mini Mango Tarts: Use mini tart shells instead of cups, layering sticky rice and mango for a dessert that’s part Thai, part European.
Mango Sticky Rice Cups are an ideal dessert that brings tradition to life in a modern, portable format. They're indulgent yet light, impressive yet easy to make. Perfect for celebrating mango season, impressing dinner guests, or simply treating yourself to a taste of Thailand, these little cups are bound to become a favorite. Happy cooking!
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