Coconut Sticky Rice (Savoury) Recipe

Glutinous rice: This type of rice is essential for achieving the sticky texture that defines this dish.

Coconut milk: Adds a creamy richness to the rice, make sure to use the unsweetened variety.

Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the coconut milk.

Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements.

Toasted sesame seeds: Provide a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch, enhancing the overall dish.

When preparing glutinous rice, ensure you rinse it thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, which can make the rice too sticky and clumpy. Additionally, soaking the rice for at least 4 hours or overnight is crucial as it allows the grains to absorb water, ensuring even cooking and a tender texture. When heating the coconut milk mixture, be careful not to let it boil; boiling can cause the milk to separate, affecting the final texture and flavor of the dish. Finally, when combining the steamed rice with the coconut milk mixture, do it gradually and stir gently to avoid breaking the delicate grains.

• glutinous rice - Substitute with sushi rice: Sushi rice has a similar sticky texture when cooked, making it a good alternative for glutinous rice.

• glutinous rice - Substitute with short-grain rice: Short-grain rice also becomes sticky when cooked, though it may not be as sticky as glutinous rice.

• coconut milk - Substitute with almond milk with coconut extract: Almond milk with a few drops of coconut extract can mimic the flavor of coconut milk.

• coconut milk - Substitute with evaporated milk with coconut extract: Evaporated milk with coconut extract can provide a similar creamy texture and flavor to coconut milk.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory depth of flavor, though it will also add a different color to the dish compared to salt.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a direct substitute for regular salt, providing a similar level of saltiness.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and a slight floral note, making it a good alternative to sugar.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a unique sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor, serving as a substitute for sugar.

• toasted sesame seeds - Substitute with toasted sunflower seeds: Toasted sunflower seeds can provide a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor as toasted sesame seeds.

• toasted sesame seeds - Substitute with toasted flax seeds: Toasted flax seeds can offer a similar crunch and a slightly different but pleasant nutty flavor compared to toasted sesame seeds.

• Allow the coconut sticky rice to cool completely before storing. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make the rice soggy.

• Transfer the cooled rice to an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out.

• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the rice within 3-4 days. The cold temperature will keep the rice fresh and safe to eat.

• For longer storage, place the rice in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of its freshness. Frozen coconut sticky rice can be stored for up to 2 months.

• When ready to eat, thaw the rice in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture of the rice.

• Reheat the rice by steaming it for about 10-15 minutes until it’s warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.

• If the rice seems dry after reheating, you can add a splash of coconut milk to restore its creamy texture.

• Steaming Method: Place the leftover coconut sticky rice in a heatproof dish and set it in a steamer. Steam for about 10-15 minutes until it is heated through. This method helps retain the original texture and moisture of the rice.

• Microwave Method: Transfer the sticky rice to a microwave-safe bowl. Sprinkle a few drops of water over the rice to prevent it from drying out. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel or microwave-safe lid. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Stovetop Method: Place the rice in a non-stick pan and add a splash of coconut milk or water. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is warmed through. This method can help revive the creamy texture of the rice.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the coconut sticky rice in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is heated through.

• Rice Cooker Method: If you have a rice cooker with a reheat function, place the leftover sticky rice in the cooker and use the reheat setting. This method is convenient and ensures the rice is evenly heated without drying out.

• Steamer: Used to cook the glutinous rice by steaming it, ensuring it becomes tender and sticky without being waterlogged.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the steamed rice with the coconut milk mixture, allowing for even distribution of flavors.

• Saucepan: Used to heat the coconut milk, salt, and sugar together, ensuring the ingredients dissolve properly without boiling.

• Spatula: Used to stir the rice and coconut milk mixture gently, ensuring the rice absorbs the coconut milk evenly.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the rice, coconut milk, and other ingredients accurately for the recipe.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like salt, sugar, and sesame seeds.

• Sieve: Used to rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

• Serving dish: Used to present the finished coconut sticky rice, garnished with toasted sesame seeds.

Rinse efficiently: Use a fine-mesh sieve to quickly rinse the glutinous rice until the water runs clear.

Soak overnight: Soak the glutinous rice overnight to save time the next day.

Steam in batches: If you have a small steamer, steam the rice in batches to ensure even cooking.

Pre-mix coconut milk: Prepare the coconut milk mixture while the rice is steaming to save time.

Use a rice cooker: If you have a rice cooker with a steaming function, use it to steam the rice more efficiently.