Gluten‑Free Thai Dessert Recipe: Thai Mango Coconut Rice Pudding – A Naturally Sweet & Healthy Treat
Craving something sweet but worried about gluten sensitivity or food allergies? You’re not alone. Many people seek traditional Thai desserts but hesitate due to dietary restrictions. Fortunately, one of Thailand’s most beloved treats, Thai Mango Coconut Rice Pudding, is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and easy to prepare at home. This tropical dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also aligns perfectly with a healthy lifestyle. In this article, you’ll learn the full gluten-free Thai dessert recipe, complete with ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips to make your pudding taste authentic and amazing every time. Let’s dive into the perfect combination of sweet mango, creamy coconut milk, and sticky rice—all free from gluten and full of Thai flavor.
What Makes Thai Mango Coconut Rice Pudding Gluten-Free?
Traditional Thai Mango Coconut Rice Pudding doesn’t contain wheat or any gluten-based ingredients. The sticky rice used in the dessert is naturally gluten-free, and the dish’s creaminess comes from coconut milk, not dairy. It’s a perfect dessert option for anyone who follows a gluten-free diet due to health concerns, celiac disease, or lifestyle preferences.
- Sticky rice (also known as glutinous rice) is gluten-free despite its misleading name.
- Coconut milk replaces dairy, making it suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals as well.
- No flour, barley, or rye is used, so there’s no hidden gluten to worry about.
This naturally gluten-free Thai dessert is safe, tasty, and comforting. For more information on gluten-free diets and health benefits, check out this guide from Medical News Today.
Essential Ingredients for Thai Mango Sticky Rice Pudding
To get the most authentic flavor, it’s crucial to use the right ingredients. This gluten-free Thai dessert recipe is simple but depends heavily on freshness and proper preparation. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Thai glutinous rice (sticky rice)
- 1½ cups water
- 1¼ cups coconut milk (full fat, unsweetened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier version)
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 ripe Thai mangoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds or mung beans (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Authentic Gluten-Free Thai Mango Coconut Rice Pudding
This step-by-step guide ensures your gluten-free Thai dessert comes out perfect every time:
1. Soak and Cook the Sticky Rice
- Soak the sticky rice in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Drain and steam the rice in a cheesecloth-lined steamer for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked and soft.
2. Make the Sweet Coconut Sauce
- In a saucepan, combine 1 cup coconut milk, ½ cup sugar, and ¼ tsp salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves.
- Do not boil—just heat until everything blends smoothly.
3. Mix the Coconut Sauce with Cooked Sticky Rice
- Transfer the hot cooked sticky rice to a mixing bowl.
- Pour in the sweet coconut mixture and stir until evenly combined.
- Let the rice sit for 20–30 minutes so it can absorb the flavor.
4. Prepare the Topping Sauce
- Heat the remaining ¼ cup of coconut milk with ¼ tsp salt in a saucepan.
- Stir until just warm—this will be drizzled on top for extra creaminess.
5. Assemble and Serve
- Plate a scoop of sticky rice, top with fresh mango slices, and drizzle with the coconut topping sauce.
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or mung beans if desired.
Why This Gluten-Free Thai Dessert Is Perfect for Everyone
Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or gluten-sensitive, Thai Mango Coconut Rice Pudding checks all the boxes. It’s naturally sweetened, rich in tropical flavors, and easy to make ahead for guests or parties. Moreover, it doesn’t rely on processed ingredients or artificial flavoring, making it a wholesome dessert that fits almost every diet plan.
- Suitable for vegans and vegetarians
- No refined flour or gluten-based thickeners
- Fresh fruit and plant-based milk make it nutrient-rich
- Can be served warm or chilled based on preference
Many home cooks love this recipe not only because of its simplicity but also because it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—kids and adults alike love the texture and flavor combination.
Tips for Making the Best Gluten-Free Thai Coconut Sticky Rice Dessert
1. Use authentic Thai ingredients
Choosing Thai sticky rice and full-fat coconut milk will give the dessert its signature richness and texture.
2. Don’t skip the soaking step
Soaking the rice is critical for proper texture. Skipping it could lead to unevenly cooked rice.
3. Choose ripe, juicy mangoes
The sweeter the mango, the better the contrast with the creamy coconut rice. Look for Ataulfo or Nam Dok Mai mangoes for best results.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness
Depending on your coconut milk and mango’s natural sweetness, you might want to tweak the sugar quantity.
Final Thoughts: A Delicious, Healthy, and Gluten-Free Thai Dessert for All
Thai Mango Coconut Rice Pudding isn’t just delicious—it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a satisfying guilt-free treat, this dessert delivers on flavor, nutrition, and presentation. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple preparation steps, you can bring the authentic taste of Thailand into your kitchen anytime. Try it today and experience why this dish remains a favorite among Thai desserts worldwide.