Can I use regular white rice instead of glutinous rice?
No, glutinous rice has a unique starch composition that gives it its sticky texture, which is essential for this recipe.
BREAKFAST
Sweet Sticky Rice with Black Beans and Coconut Cream
Indulge in a classic Thai breakfast or dessert: tender, naturally sweetened sticky rice, lovingly prepared with coconut milk and dotted with soft black beans. A final flourish of rich coconut cream elevates this comforting dish to a truly luxurious experience.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in 2 cups of cold water for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
02
Drain the soaked rice and transfer it to a steamer basket lined with cheesecloth or parchment paper. Steam over boiling water for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and translucent.
03
While the rice is steaming, combine 1 cup of coconut milk, granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. Do not boil.
04
Transfer the steamed rice to a medium bowl. Pour the warm coconut milk mixture over the rice and gently fold until fully absorbed. Cover the bowl and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the rice to soak up all the liquid.
05
Gently fold in the rinsed and drained black beans into the sticky rice.
06
In a separate small saucepan, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of coconut milk and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Heat over low heat, stirring, until just warm. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of thick coconut cream until smooth.
07
Serve the warm sweet sticky rice with black beans, drizzled generously with the warm coconut cream sauce.
About This Recipe
Indulge in a classic Thai breakfast or dessert: tender, naturally sweetened sticky rice, lovingly prepared with coconut milk and dotted with soft black beans. A final flourish of rich coconut cream elevates this comforting dish to a truly luxurious experience.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra flavor, you can add a pandan leaf to the steaming water for the rice, or to the coconut milk mixture while heating. Ensure your coconut milk is full-fat for the best creamy texture.
Easy Substitutions
If black beans are unavailable, you can use cooked mung beans. For a less sweet version, reduce the amount of granulated sugar. Brown sugar can be used for a deeper caramel note.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sticky rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a microwave with a splash of water or steam until warm and soft.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a standalone breakfast or a light dessert. It pairs wonderfully with fresh tropical fruits like mango or pineapple. For a savory contrast, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can be added.
Common Mistakes
Not soaking the glutinous rice can result in hard, undercooked grains. Overcooking the rice can make it mushy; steam just until tender. Boiling the coconut milk for the sauce can cause it to separate, so keep the heat low. Not rinsing the black beans can introduce excess sodium and alter the flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my coconut milk doesn't separate into cream and liquid?
If your can of coconut milk hasn't separated, you can still use it. Just use the thicker part for the cream drizzle and the thinner part for the rice mixture.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sticky rice and the coconut milk mixture a day in advance. Store them separately and combine and reheat just before serving for the best texture.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to perfect sticky rice is proper soaking and steaming. Soaking helps the grains cook evenly and become tender. Steaming, rather than boiling, prevents the rice from becoming mushy and maintains its distinct chewy texture. When preparing the coconut cream sauce, avoid high heat to prevent the coconut milk from separating or curdling. The gentle warming allows the flavors to meld beautifully without compromising the texture.
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