Gluten‑Free Thai Dessert Recipe: Thai Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Milk – Creamy & Easy Home Treat
Many home cooks want a sweet yet simple gluten‑free dessert, but feel unsure how to achieve the perfect balance of chewy tapioca pearls and rich coconut milk. This Gluten‑Free Thai Dessert Recipe for Thai Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Milk offers a foolproof way to make a tasty, wholesome Thai sweet treat at home. We guide you through selecting quality tapioca, preparing creamy coconut milk sauce, and serving tips—so everyone can enjoy this traditional Thai tapioca coconut milk recipe any time.
What Is Thai Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Milk and Why It’s a Popular Gluten‑Free Thai Dessert
Thai Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Milk, also called “Saku Nam Kati,” features chewy tapioca balls simmered in fragrant coconut milk sweetened with palm sugar and kissed with salt. This naturally gluten‑free Thai coconut dessert is beloved for its creamy texture and simple flavors. Keywords like “tapioca coconut milk dessert” and “easy gluten‑free Thai dessert” reflect growing interest in this satisfying comfort sweet.
Benefits of Making Tapioca Pearls Coconut Dessert at Home
- Only a few ingredients: tapioca pearls, coconut milk, palm sugar, salt
- Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free diets
- Served warm or chilled—versatile seasons treat
Ingredients for Thai Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Milk
These pantry-friendly ingredients ensure creamy, flavorful results:
Core Ingredients
- ½ cup small tapioca pearls
- 2 cups water (for cooking pearls)
- 2 cups full-fat coconut milk
- ⅓ cup palm sugar (or coconut sugar)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Pandan leaf or vanilla extract (optional for extra aroma)
Tips for Ingredient Selection
- Small-size tapioca pearls cook more evenly
- Use creamy canned coconut milk for rich texture
- Palm sugar gives depth, coconut sugar is a good substitute
- Pandan leaf adds fragrance; vanilla extract works if unavailable
Step‑by‑Step Guide: How to Make Thai Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Milk
1. Cook Tapioca Pearls
- Rinse tapioca under cold water.
- Bring 2 cups water to boil in a pot. Add tapioca pearls and stir.
- Cook on medium, stirring gently until pearls turn translucent (~10 minutes).
- Turn off heat and let tapioca sit in water ~5 minutes, then drain and rinse.
2. Prepare Creamy Coconut Milk Sauce
- Combine coconut milk, palm sugar, salt, and pandan or vanilla in saucepan.
- Heat gently until sugar dissolves; don’t boil to prevent curdling.
3. Combine Pearls with Coconut Sauce
- Add drained tapioca pearls into warm coconut milk.
- Simmer together 2–3 minutes, stirring gently to coat all pearls.
- Adjust sweetness and salt to taste.
4. Serve Tapioca in Coconut Milk Thai‑Style
- Serve warm in small bowls for a cozy dessert.
- Alternatively, chill and serve with ice for a refreshing treat.
- Top with fresh fruit, toasted coconut, or a drizzle of coconut cream.
Variations and Serving Suggestions for Coconut Tapioca Dessert
Personalize this classic with these flavor variations:
- Add mango cubes, jackfruit, or sweet corn
- Infuse coconut milk with pandan for extra fragrance
- Serve layered with coconut jelly or palm sugar syrup
- Garnish with sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for texture
For related recipes, check this Asian tapioca desserts guide.
Health Advantages of This Gluten‑Free Thai Coconut Dessert
This dessert is gluten-free, vegan, and made with natural ingredients. Coconut milk provides healthy fats and minerals; tapioca offers easily digestible carbs. Using palm sugar offers a lower glycemic index alternative. Together, they create a balanced, mildly sweet treat that’s suitable for diverse dietary needs.
Storage and Make‑Ahead Tips
- Store in fridge up to 3 days in sealed container
- Reheat gently with a little coconut milk on stove or microwave
- Chill before serving for refreshing texture
- Prep tapioca in advance, add sauce before serving
Conclusion: Enjoy This Gluten‑Free Thai Dessert at Home
This Gluten‑Free Thai Dessert Recipe: Thai Tapioca Pearls in Coconut Milk brings together creamy coconut, chewy pearls, and natural sweetness in an easy, satisfying treat. With a few simple ingredients, clear instructions, and flexible serving styles, this timeless Thai dessert is perfect for anyone craving a comforting, gluten‑free sweet. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Thailand in your kitchen!