Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Ma Muang)
Khao Niao Mamuang (Thai: ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง, English: Mango Sticky Rice) is a traditional dessert that represents Thai cuisine. It is characterized by sticky rice cooked in coconut milk and served with ripe mango, and is especially popular during the hot season and mango harvest period. The harmonious combination of sweetness, chewy texture, and coconut flavor has made this dish popular throughout Thailand and, in recent years, well-known among tourists. This article also covers the emerald green version of Khao Niao Mamuang served at the Bangkok restaurant ""Baan Padthai"" (บ้านผัดไทย).
- Taste Rating
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- Price
- 220 Baht
- Meal Date
- 5/4/2024
- Food Travel Log
- A dessert with a cute name: Khao Niao Mamuang. The emerald green sticky rice is of high quality and gentle sweetness, making me glad to be in Thailand. The mango is super juicy, making Thailand the best! Wanting more sweet happiness, I poured on coconut milk and regretted the overwhelming sweetness. Lesson: check your brakes when you're happy.
AI Gourmet Analysis
Overview
Khao Niao Mamuang (Thai: ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง, English: Mango Sticky Rice) is a traditional dessert that represents Thailand, especially popular during the hot season and when mangoes are in season. It is characterized by glutinous rice (khao niao) flavored with coconut milk and served with ripe mangoes. This article also covers the unique emerald green variation of Khao Niao Mamuang served at the popular Bangkok restaurant "Baan Pad Thai (บ้านผัดไทย)".
History and Cultural Background
Among Thailand's traditional sweets, Khao Niao Mamuang is considered a relatively new addition. It is believed to have developed during the 20th century in homes and street food stalls along with the improvement of glutinous rice varieties and the expanded distribution of coconut. Although variations exist in other Southeast Asian countries such as Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Vietnam, the Thai version enjoys overwhelming international recognition.
It is often served at Buddhist ceremonies, New Year (Songkran), seasonal harvest festivals, and is a specialty always introduced to foreign tourists visiting Thailand.
Preparation and Main Components
Main Ingredients and Method
| Main Ingredients | Features & Uses |
|---|---|
| Glutinous rice (Khao Niao) | Steamed and mixed with coconut milk. Typically white, but sometimes colored with dyes or natural materials. |
| Mango (Mamuang) | Fragrant, fully ripened yellow varieties. Peak season is March–May. |
| Coconut milk | Added to flavor the glutinous rice and as a sweet topping. |
| Sugar and salt | Enhances flavor and adds depth. |
| Mung beans or pandan leaves | Often used for color and textural accents. |
At "Baan Pad Thai" in Bangkok, an emerald green colored glutinous rice is used. This is often colored with natural pigments such as pandan leaves (bai toei, Thai: ใบเตย). The glutinous rice is soaked overnight, steamed, and then infused with rich coconut cream before being seasoned with sugar and salt. The coconut cream topping is served on the side, allowing diners to adjust the amount to their preference. Sliced mango is served alongside, characterized by its crisp texture and rich sweetness.
Variations and Regional Characteristics
Throughout Thailand, differences can be seen in flavor, coloring, and toppings depending on the region. In addition to white rice, colors can be added using ingredients like butterfly pea flower (anchan) or black rice, not just pandan. It is common for crispy fried mung beans, sesame seeds, or peanuts to be sprinkled on top. In the south, there is a local style that includes coconut flesh mixed into the rice.
Nutrition and Contemporary Standing
This dessert mainly consists of carbohydrates (glutinous rice), vitamins C and A (mango), fats and trace minerals (coconut milk). Among traditional Thai confections, it is considered “luxurious” and continues to be widely served as a celebratory or restaurant dessert. With the rise of health consciousness, modern adaptations featuring reduced sugar and coconut, as well as vegetarian and vegan versions, can also be found.
Dining Experience: Baan Pad Thai
Baan Pad Thai (บ้านผัดไทย), a leading Bangkok restaurant, is known for its blend of traditional and innovative Thai cuisine, with Khao Niao Mamuang being one of its popular desserts. The natural coloring and meticulous presentation are distinctive features, making it beloved by both locals and tourists alike.