Mango Sticky Rice

A Simple Yet Irresistible Harmony

Mango Sticky Rice is a quintessential Thai dessert that beautifully combines the creamy richness of coconut-glazed sticky rice with the sweet-tart flavor of ripe mango. Loved both locally and globally, this seasonal dish has become a cultural and culinary icon of Thailand.

A Glimpse into Thai Culinary History

While its exact origins remain unclear, Mango Sticky Rice is believed to date back at least to the reign of King Rama II. Thai literature from that period, such as the famous Kap He Chom Khrueang Khao Wan poem, mentions mangoes and coconut-glazed sticky ricesuggesting their culinary significance at the time.

Its also widely believed that pairing sticky rice with fruit became popular in the reign of King Rama V, during which people enjoyed sticky rice with fruits like durian, rambutan, and eventually mango.

Key Ingredients of a Timeless Treat

• Sticky rice (glutinous rice) traditionally the Thai "Khao Niew Kiew Ngu" variety for its soft, chewy texture
• Coconut milk cooked with sugar and salt to create a creamy, slightly salty glaze
• Ripe mango originally the Ok Rong variety, but now Nam Dok Mai is most popular for its sweetness and texture
• Crispy mung beans sprinkled on top for a bit of crunch

A Summer Dessert in Thailand

As mangoes ripen in the hot season (March to May), Mango Sticky Rice becomes a common and beloved summertime dessert found from street stalls to luxury hotels.

International Recognition and Cultural Icon

With Thailands booming tourism in the late 20th century, Mango Sticky Rice was introduced to a global audience. Tourists fell in love with its unique balance of flavors, and food bloggers and influencers helped spread its popularity.

In 2019, the website TasteAtlas ranked Mango Sticky Rice among the Top 50 Best Desserts in the World, and its often featured in Michelin-starred Thai restaurants worldwide.

Modern Variations and Creative Twists

Today, Mango Sticky Rice has evolved into many creative forms:

• Black sticky rice with mango
• Mango sticky rice ice cream
• Sticky rice mango mousse or layered cakes
• Mochi and fusion-style desserts