Thai cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices, but it’s also a treasure trove of delightful desserts and sweets. These treats often incorporate tropical fruits, coconut, and rice, offering a unique and delicious end to any meal. Let’s dive into three popular examples of Thai desserts and sweets that you can easily make at home.
Mango Sticky Rice is a beloved Thai dessert, especially during the mango season. This sweet treat is perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing end to a spicy meal.
Mango Sticky Rice consists of sweet sticky rice topped with ripe mango slices and drizzled with a creamy coconut sauce. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, with the vibrant yellow mango contrasting beautifully with the white rice.
To make Mango Sticky Rice, start by rinsing 1 cup of glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 4 hours or overnight. After soaking, steam the rice using a bamboo or metal steamer for about 30-40 minutes until tender.
While the rice is steaming, prepare the coconut sauce by combining 1 cup of coconut milk, 1/2 cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat.
Once the rice is cooked, mix in 1/2 cup of the coconut sauce, reserving the rest for serving. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
To serve, place a generous scoop of the sticky rice on a plate, arrange mango slices beside it, and drizzle with the remaining coconut sauce. Enjoy this delightful combination of flavors and textures!
Khanom Krok is a popular street food dessert that is often enjoyed as a snack or a light treat. These little coconut puddings feature a crispy outer layer and a soft, creamy center, making them a delightful indulgence.
To make Khanom Krok, you’ll need a special cast-iron pan with small round molds. Start by mixing 1 cup of rice flour, 1/2 cup of coconut milk, 1/2 cup of water, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until smooth.
Next, heat the pan over medium heat and lightly oil each mold. Pour a small amount of the batter into each mold, filling them halfway. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the bottom is slightly firm.
Then, add a spoonful of sweetened coconut cream (made from 1/2 cup of coconut milk heated with 1 tablespoon of sugar and a pinch of salt) on top of the batter in each mold. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the puddings are set and slightly golden.
Carefully remove them from the molds and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or shredded coconut for added texture.
Thai Coconut Ice Cream is a refreshing dessert that can be enjoyed in any season. Its creamy texture and rich coconut flavor make it a popular choice for cooling down on a hot day.
To prepare this delightful treat, combine 2 cups of coconut milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 3/4 cup of sugar in a mixing bowl. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
If you have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into the machine and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, simply pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze it. Stir every 30 minutes for the first few hours to break up any ice crystals until it’s fully frozen.
Once the ice cream is ready, serve it in bowls, topped with roasted peanuts, fresh mango, or sweet sticky rice for a delightful twist.
These examples of Thai desserts and sweets showcase the delicious variety that Thai cuisine has to offer. Whether you’re enjoying them on a special occasion or just treating yourself on a warm day, these desserts are sure to bring a smile to your face!