Sweet rice, also known as glutinous or sticky rice, has been a staple ingredient in many Asian cultures for centuries. Its unique texture and mild flavor make it an excellent base for a wide variety of sweet dishes that are perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. Whether you’re looking to recreate a beloved childhood dessert or impress your friends with a new recipe, this article will provide you with 20 delicious sweet rice recipes from around the world to try.
From classic Thai desserts like Coconut Mango Sticky Rice to innovative fusion creations like Sweet Rice and Pumpkin Custard, we’ve gathered some of the most mouthwatering and unique sweet rice recipes out there. Whether you’re a fan of tropical flavors, nutty undertones, or warm spices, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
In the following pages, we’ll delve into the world of sweet rice and share our favorite recipes from around the globe.
Coconut Mango Sticky Rice
A sweet and savory fusion of Thai flavors, Coconut Mango Sticky Rice is a delightful dessert perfect for warm weather. With the natural sweetness of mango and coconut milk, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, coconut milk, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the drained rice to the saucepan and stir well. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
4. Stir in the diced mango, salt, and butter. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Black Sticky Rice Pudding
Thai Black Sticky Rice Pudding Recipe
This traditional Thai dessert, also known as “Khao Neow Mamuang”, is a creamy and sweet treat that combines glutinous black rice with coconut milk and palm sugar. With its unique flavors and smooth texture, it’s a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of glutinous black sticky rice
– 2 cups of coconut milk
– 1/4 cup of palm sugar (or brown sugar)
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of pandan extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous black sticky rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again, then combine it with coconut milk, palm sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan.
3. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the rice is fully cooked (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in pandan extract, if using.
5. Let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Rice with Red Bean Paste
This traditional Korean dessert combines sweet rice with creamy red bean paste, creating a delightful and comforting treat. Perfect for special occasions or as a simple snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of uncooked glutinous rice (also known as sweet rice)
– 2 cups of water
– 1/2 cup of red bean paste (available at Asian grocery stores)
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and cook it according to package instructions with the same 2 cups of water. Add sugar, salt, and vegetable oil during cooking.
3. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
4. Mix in the red bean paste until well combined.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (including soaking time)
Pandan Flavored Sweet Rice Balls
A delightful twist on traditional rice balls, this recipe infuses the classic treat with the unique flavor and aroma of pandan leaves. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these sweet treats are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pandan extract or 2-3 drops pandan essence
– Vegetable oil for shaping
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, sugar, and salt. Mix well until sugar is evenly distributed.
2. Add pandan extract or essence and mix until the rice is well coated with the flavor.
3. Divide the mixture into small portions and shape each portion into a ball using vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
4. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (rice balls are best served fresh)
Vietnamese Sweet Rice with Mung Bean
This traditional Vietnamese dish is a sweet and savory delight, combining the natural sweetness of glutinous rice with the nutty flavor of mung beans. Perfect as a side dish or dessert, it’s a staple in many Vietnamese households.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup split mung beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and cook according to package instructions using a 1:2 ratio of rice to water.
3. In a separate pot, combine the mung beans and sugar. Add enough water to cover the beans by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted.
5. Combine the cooked rice and mung bean mixture. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
Filipino Biko (Sweet Rice Cake)
Biko is a traditional Filipino sweet rice cake made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and sugar. This classic dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a snack any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice (also known as sticky rice)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and combine with sugar, coconut milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Mix well.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed (about 15-20 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Shape into small cakes or bars. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Japanese Mochi with Sweet Rice Flour
Traditional Japanese mochi is a classic treat made from glutinous rice flour, and this recipe uses sweet rice flour for an even sweeter twist. This chewy dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a fun snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sweet rice flour
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (optional)
– Filling of your choice (e.g. red bean paste, ice cream, or fruit)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet rice flour and sugar.
2. Gradually add in the water while stirring with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Flatten each ball slightly to form a disk shape.
6. Place your desired filling in the center of each disk.
7. Fold the mochi over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
8. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None required! Mochi is best served fresh and soft.
Korean Sweet Rice Drink (Sikhye)
Sikhye is a traditional Korean sweet rice drink that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a comforting treat any time of the year. This simple recipe yields a sweet, creamy, and slightly sticky drink that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the cooked rice, water, sugar, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the mixture has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or container.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Eight Treasure Rice Pudding
A creamy and sweet dessert infused with the essence of Chinese astrology’s “Eight Treasures” – a harmonious blend of eight ingredients to bring good fortune and prosperity. This pudding is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup short-grain rice
– 3 cups water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup dried longan fruit, chopped
– 1/4 cup dried lychee fruit, chopped
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 teaspoon rose water
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
2. In a separate saucepan, combine sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and 1/4 cup of the cooked rice. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
3. Add chopped longan, lychee, raisins, rose water, and sesame oil to the pudding mixture. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the flavors are fully incorporated.
5. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Rice and Banana Parcels
Sweet Rice and Banana Parcels Recipe
Summary: This sweet treat combines fluffy rice with ripe bananas and a hint of cinnamon, wrapped in flaky pastry for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (cooled)
– 2 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cooled rice, sliced bananas, and cinnamon.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Brush edges with beaten egg.
4. Place the rice-banana mixture along the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
5. Fold the edges over the filling, pressing gently to seal. Use any excess pastry to create a decorative edge or cut off any stray pieces.
6. Place parcels on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Malaysian Kuih Seri Muka (Layered Sweet Rice Cake)
A classic Malaysian dessert, Kuih Seri Muka is a layered sweet rice cake made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and palm sugar. This recipe yields a deliciously fragrant and chewy treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups glutinous rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup palm sugar (gula melaka)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pandan extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and cook it with an equal amount of water until the grains are soft and mushy.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, coconut milk, palm sugar, salt, and pandan extract (if using). Mix well to form a smooth paste.
4. Divide the mixture into 3-4 portions, depending on how many layers you want in your cake.
5. Grease a square-shaped cake pan or mold with some oil and layer the rice mixture, ending with the last portion on top.
6. Steam the cake over boiling water for about 1 hour or until it is cooked through and firm to the touch.
7. Let the cake cool before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour
Indonesian Klepon (Sweet Rice Balls with Palm Sugar)
A classic Indonesian dessert, Klepon are soft and chewy rice balls coated in a sweet palm sugar syrup. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/4 cup grated palm sugar (gula jawa)
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Palm sugar syrup (see below)
Palm Sugar Syrup:
– 1 cup palm sugar, dissolved in 1 cup boiling water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice and grated palm sugar. Mix well until the sugar is evenly distributed.
2. Gradually add water to the rice mixture, forming a dough. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut.
4. Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to deep-fry the rice balls. Fry in batches until golden brown.
5. Remove the fried rice balls from the oil and immediately coat with the palm sugar syrup.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Rice Porridge with Cinnamon and Raisins
Warm up with a comforting bowl of sweet rice porridge, infused with the aromatic warmth of cinnamon and the natural sweetness of raisins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice and water.
2. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the porridge thickens to your liking (about 10-15 minutes).
3. Add ground cinnamon and stir well.
4. Remove from heat and stir in honey until dissolved.
5. Fold in raisins.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional raisins if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sweet Rice and Coconut Dumplings
These tender dumplings filled with sweet rice and coconut are a perfect dessert or snack to satisfy your cravings. The combination of fluffy rice, creamy coconut, and a hint of sweetness is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (cooled)
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded coconut, sugar, flour, and salt. Mix well.
2. Gradually add in the water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small portions (about 1-inch diameter). Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into an oval shape.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry dumplings in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes for frying the dumplings.
Caramelized Sweet Rice with Pineapple
This sweet and savory rice dish is a perfect side to any meal. The caramelization process brings out the natural sweetness of the rice, while the pineapple adds a burst of freshness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup diced fresh pineapple
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add the water and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. While the rice cooks, melt the sugar in a small skillet over medium heat.
6. Add the pineapple and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
7. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the caramelized pineapple and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Rice Pudding with Cardamom and Pistachios
A creamy and aromatic dessert that combines the warmth of cardamom with the crunch of pistachios, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, cardamom, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream. Let it cool to room temperature.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped pistachios.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Rice and Taro Dessert Soup
This comforting dessert soup is a popular treat in many Asian cultures. The combination of sweet rice, tender taro, and creamy coconut milk creates a rich and satisfying dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 large taro root, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pandan extract (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, taro, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes or until the taro is tender.
2. Stir in coconut milk and pandan extract (if using). Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve cold, garnished with ice cubes if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffed Sweet Rice Balls with Sesame Filling
These bite-sized treats are a delightful twist on traditional rice balls, filled with the savory goodness of sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked sweet rice
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked sweet rice, flour, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add sugar, melted butter, and sesame oil to the rice mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a golf ball. Shape each portion into a ball.
4. Make an indentation in the center of each ball, then fill with sesame seeds.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to seal the ball. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Rice and Pumpkin Custard
This sweet and comforting dessert combines the warmth of pumpkin with the creamy richness of custard, all wrapped up in a bed of fluffy sweet rice. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using the water.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and warm.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together cream, egg yolks, and melted butter.
5. Add cooked pumpkin mixture to the cream mixture and whisk until combined.
6. Pour custard mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with cooked sweet rice.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Rice Flour Pancakes with Honey Drizzle
Sweet Rice Flour Pancakes with Honey Drizzle Recipe
Summary: Start your day off right with these fluffy and delicious sweet rice flour pancakes, topped with a drizzle of pure honey. This simple recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweet rice flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Honey, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the sweet rice flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
3. Add the melted butter to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
8. Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
9. Serve warm with a drizzle of honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat! This article brings you 20 delectable sweet rice recipes from around the world. From classic Coconut Mango Sticky Rice to innovative creations like Pandan Flavored Sweet Rice Balls and Caramelized Sweet Rice with Pineapple, there’s something for every palate and occasion. Discover unique desserts from Asia, such as Thai Black Sticky Rice Pudding and Japanese Mochi with Sweet Rice Flour, or try a twist on traditional favorites like Sweet Rice Porridge with Cinnamon and Raisins. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a sweet treat, this collection has got you covered!