Mango Sticky Rice Oatmeal Recipe

If you’ve ever fallen in love with the sweet, creamy delight of traditional Thai mango sticky rice, you’re in for a wonderful surprise with this Mango Sticky Rice Oatmeal version. This comforting breakfast twist brings together the lusciousness of ripe mangos, the gentle chew of rolled oats, and the indulgent creaminess of coconut milk—all infused with a hint of vanilla and a touch of sea salt. Perfect for mornings when you want something both familiar and exciting, this recipe captures the essence of the classic dessert while delivering a heartwarming bowl of nourishment to start your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Mango Sticky Rice Oatmeal is simpler than you might think, with just a handful of ingredients that play crucial roles in crafting its unique taste and texture. Each item enhances the dish, whether it’s lending natural sweetness, creaminess, or a pop of color.

• 2 mangos: Choose ripe, juicy mangos for that perfect balance of sweetness and vibrancy.
• 1 cup rolled oats: The base providing hearty texture and a gentle chew reminiscent of sticky rice.
• 1 cup water: Essential for cooking the oats to just the right softness.
• ⅓ cup full-fat coconut milk: Adds rich creaminess and authentic tropical flavor.
• 1 tbsp chia seeds: Boosts nutrition and helps thicken the oatmeal naturally.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth into the mixture.
• Pinch of sea salt: Heightens all the sweet flavors beautifully.
• For topping: Black sesame seeds, chili powder, sea salt, and creamy coconut sauce—each adds a unique layer of texture and flavor.
• ¼ cup full-fat coconut milk: For making the luscious coconut sauce.
• 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (cornstarch slurry): To thicken the coconut sauce to perfection.
• 1 tsp coconut sugar (or plain sugar): Sweetens the coconut sauce with a hint of caramel notes.

How to Make Mango Sticky Rice Oatmeal

Step 1: Cook the Oats with Chia and Vanilla

Start by warming a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the rolled oats, water, chia seeds, and vanilla extract into the pan. Let everything cook together, stirring occasionally, until the oats become tender and the mixture reaches your preferred thickness. This usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes, during which the chia seeds will swell and add a pleasant texture without allowing the oats to become mushy.

Step 2: Add Coconut Milk to Elevate Creaminess

Once the oats have softened, stir in the ⅓ cup of full-fat coconut milk to impart that signature richness reminiscent of sticky rice. If the oatmeal starts to look too thick or dry, feel free to add a splash more water to keep it silky smooth. Turn the heat down to low and continue cooking just until you achieve that perfect creamy consistency that feels luscious on your spoon.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Sauce

While the oats rest, it’s time to whip up the coconut sauce that will make this bowl truly special. In a small saucepan, gently heat ¼ cup of full-fat coconut milk over medium heat. Whisk together the cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) and pour it into the warm coconut milk along with the coconut sugar. Keep stirring steadily until the sauce thickens into a glossy, velvety drizzle—this should take only a few minutes. The sauce provides the luscious finishing touch, tying the mango and oatmeal together beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble Your Mango Sticky Rice Oatmeal

Time for the fun part! Spoon your perfectly cooked oatmeal into a bowl, arrange slices of ripe mango on top, and sprinkle on black sesame seeds, a pinch of chili powder, and a dash of sea salt for that irresistible contrast of flavors. Finish it off with a generous spoonful of the warm coconut sauce drizzled right over everything. Now, dive into a bowl that’s both comforting and exciting, with every bite offering a harmony of creamy, sweet, and subtly spicy notes.

How to Serve Mango Sticky Rice Oatmeal

Garnishes

The toppings you choose can transform your Mango Sticky Rice Oatmeal from lovely to unforgettable. Black sesame seeds add a nutty crunch, while a light dusting of chili powder gives just the right amount of gentle heat. A sprinkle of sea salt helps balance the sweetness of the mango and coconut, enhancing every mouthful perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dessert-inspired breakfast is actually quite filling on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it alongside a small cup of hot jasmine tea or a refreshing glass of lime-infused water. The floral notes of the tea or the citrus zing of the lime make lovely companions that keep the tropical vibe alive.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress your brunch guests or treat yourself? Try layering your Mango Sticky Rice Oatmeal in clear glass jars or parfait cups, alternating oatmeal and mango slices to create a visual feast. Or sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for extra texture and a hint of smoky sweetness. The vibrant colors and inviting aromas practically beg you to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Mango Sticky Rice Oatmeal left over, it keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just give it a quick stir before reheating, as the oats may thicken or settle while chilled.

Freezing

Because of the coconut milk and fresh mango, freezing is not ideal for this oatmeal. The texture of the mango may become watery or mushy upon thawing, and the creamy coconut may separate. It’s best to enjoy this recipe fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

When it’s time to warm up your leftover Mango Sticky Rice Oatmeal, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of water or coconut milk helps reintroduce creaminess and prevents drying. Warm until just heated through, then reassemble with fresh mango slices and your favorite toppings.

FAQs

Can I use frozen mango for Mango Sticky Rice Oatmeal?

Absolutely! Frozen mango is a convenient and tasty alternative. Just thaw it before adding to your oatmeal to avoid extra moisture that might thin the dish.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan since it uses plant-based ingredients like coconut milk and oats. Just be sure your sugar choice is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char.

Can I substitute rolled oats with instant oats?

You can, but instant oats cook faster and can become mushy more quickly. Rolled oats provide a better texture that mimics the chewiness of mango sticky rice in this oatmeal.

What if I don’t have cornstarch for the coconut sauce?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as alternatives to thicken the sauce smoothly.

How spicy should the chili powder be for the topping?

Use a mild chili powder or adjust it based on your spice preference. The idea is to add a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness without overpowering the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Mango Sticky Rice Oatmeal is a joyful way to start the day or enjoy a cozy dessert-inspired snack that feels both uplifting and nostalgic. It’s not just a recipe but a comforting hug in a bowl that invites you to savor every creamy, fruity bite. Give it a try—you’ll soon find it hard to go back to plain oatmeal again.

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