Mango Sticky Rice: the Classic Thai Dessert

Mango Sticky Rice: the Classic Thai Dessert

Sticky rice with mango (khao niao mamuang) is Thailand's favourite summer dessert. Sweet coconut sauce poured over hot sticky rice beside ripe mango — a combination that cannot be improved.

History of the dish

The dessert is traditionally prepared during mango season (April–June), when the Thai nam dok mai variety is at its sweetest and most fragrant. At the Songkran festival (Thai New Year) it is on every table.

Key ingredients

Glutinous rice (sweet rice), coconut milk, sugar, salt, ripe mango (Ataulfo variety or any sweet one). Soak the rice overnight and steam.

How to cook at home

Pour coconut sauce over the hot rice immediately after cooking — it will absorb in 20 minutes. Fan the mango slices and add an extra drizzle of sauce before serving.