Sticky Rice Basket Recipe
Make Sticky Rice Basket Recipe in just 1h 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Sticky Rice Basket — Rice & Seasoning
Sticky Rice Basket — Fillings & Toppings
Sticky Rice Basket — Savory Sauce (for drizzling)
Sticky Rice Basket — Basket & Finishing
Method
Sticky Rice Basket — Rice & Seasoning
- 1
Rinse and soak rice
Rinse 2 cups glutinous rice under cold water until the rinse runs almost clear (about 3–4 times). Transfer to a bowl and cover with 2 cups water. Soak for at least 4 hours or up to overnight at room temperature.
- 2
Steam the rice
Drain the soaked rice thoroughly. Set up a steamer (bamboo or metal) lined with cheesecloth or a clean towel. Steam the rice over a pot of simmering water, covered, for about 20–25 minutes, tossing gently once halfway through to ensure even cooking. The grains should be tender and slightly translucent.
- 3
Season the hot rice
While the rice is steaming, warm 1 cup coconut milk with 3 tbsp sugar and 1 tsp salt in a small saucepan until the sugar dissolves (do not boil). When rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and immediately pour the warm coconut mixture over the hot rice. Fold gently with a wooden spoon or rice paddle to combine, ensuring the grains stay slightly separate but evenly coated. Cover and let sit 10 minutes so the rice absorbs the coconut flavor.
Sticky Rice Basket — Fillings & Toppings
- 4
Prepare fresh toppings
While rice is steaming and resting, prepare toppings: peel and slice 1 ripe mango (if using), thinly slice 1/2 cucumber, chop scallions, and pick cilantro leaves. Toast 2 tbsp sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant (about 2 minutes), watching carefully so they don't burn. Coarsely crush 3 tbsp roasted peanuts or cashews.
- 5
Assemble flavor mix-ins
If you want a sweet basket, set out mango slices, toasted sesame seeds, and a spoonful of fried shallots. For a savory-focused basket, arrange cucumber, scallions, crushed nuts, cilantro, and fried shallots. Keep optional pickled chilies or chili jam at the ready for heat.
Sticky Rice Basket — Savory Sauce (for drizzling)
- 6
Make quick savory drizzle
Whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp honey (or palm sugar), and 1 tbsp water in a small bowl until combined. Taste and adjust: add more honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tang. Set aside.
Sticky Rice Basket — Basket & Finishing
- 7
- 8
Top and finish
Arrange chosen toppings on each rice mound: for sweet style, fan mango slices over rice and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and a few fried shallots. For savory, arrange cucumber, sprinkle scallions, cilantro, crushed nuts, and fried shallots. Drizzle a small amount of the savory sauce over savory-style baskets and offer pickled chilies or chili jam on the side. Garnish with lime wedges for squeezing over savory versions.
- 9
Serve
Serve the sticky rice baskets warm or at room temperature. If making ahead, keep rice covered to retain moisture and top just before serving so toppings remain crisp. Each basket is an individual portion — provide small spoons or chopsticks for guests.