Purple Sticky Rice recipe

Purple sticky rice. Just the name itself conjures up images of vibrant color and exotic flavors. For me, it’s more than just a dish; it’s a warm memory, a comforting treat, and a delightful surprise all rolled into one perfectly chewy, subtly sweet bite. I first stumbled upon this recipe years ago while searching for something a little different to spice up our dessert routine. Tired of the usual cakes and cookies, I wanted something that felt both special and wholesome. And boy, did purple sticky rice deliver!

The first time I made it, my kitchen transformed into a fragrant haven. The aroma of coconut milk simmering with the unique, slightly nutty scent of the black glutinous rice was intoxicating. My kids, usually glued to their screens, wandered in, noses twitching, asking, “What smells so good, Mom?”

When it was finally ready, the deep purple hue was mesmerizing. We served it warm, topped with a drizzle of extra coconut cream and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. The silence that fell over the table as everyone took their first bite spoke volumes. The texture was incredible – wonderfully chewy and sticky, just as promised. The flavor was subtly sweet, creamy from the coconut milk, and had a depth that was completely unexpected and utterly delightful.

Since then, purple sticky rice has become a staple in our household. It’s requested for potlucks, family gatherings, and even just as a special weekend treat. It’s surprisingly easy to make, incredibly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking to add a touch of exotic flair and deliciousness to your table, you absolutely must try this recipe. Prepare to be enchanted by the vibrant color, the delightful texture, and the subtle sweetness of purple sticky rice – it’s a culinary adventure you won’t regret!

Ingredients for Delicious Purple Sticky Rice

To embark on your purple sticky rice journey, you’ll need just a handful of key ingredients. The quality of these ingredients can significantly impact the final flavor and texture, so choosing well is important. Here’s what you’ll need for a truly authentic and delicious purple sticky rice experience:

• 1 cup Black Glutinous Rice (also known as Purple Sticky Rice or Black Sweet Rice): This is the star of the show! It’s crucial to use glutinous rice, sometimes labeled as “sweet rice” or “sticky rice.” Regular black rice or brown rice will not work as they lack the starch content that gives sticky rice its signature texture. Look for bags specifically labeled “black glutinous rice” or “purple sticky rice” in Asian grocery stores or online. The grains should be short and opaque.
• 1 ½ cups Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Coconut milk is essential for the creamy richness and characteristic flavor of purple sticky rice. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for the best results; it provides a richer, more luxurious texture. You can use canned coconut milk or fresh coconut milk if available. Avoid “lite” coconut milk as it will be thinner and less flavorful.
• ½ cup Granulated Sugar (adjust to your preference): The sweetness level is a personal preference. Half a cup provides a moderately sweet dessert. If you prefer a less sweet version, start with ⅓ cup and add more to taste. You can also experiment with other sweeteners like palm sugar for a more traditional flavor, or brown sugar for a hint of molasses.
• ½ teaspoon Salt: A pinch of salt is crucial to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Don’t skip it! It prevents the dessert from being overly sweet and flat.
• Optional Flavor Enhancements:
  • Pandan Leaves (2-3 leaves): Pandan leaves are commonly used in Southeast Asian desserts and impart a unique, fragrant aroma similar to vanilla but with a grassy, floral note. If you can find fresh or frozen pandan leaves, adding a few to the cooking liquid will elevate the flavor profile significantly. Tie them into a knot before adding them to the pot for easy removal.
  • Vanilla Extract (½ teaspoon): If pandan leaves are not available, a touch of vanilla extract can add a subtle warmth and complexity to the flavor. Add it towards the end of the cooking process.
  • Coconut Cream (for serving): For an extra decadent touch, serve your purple sticky rice with a drizzle of thick coconut cream. This enhances the creamy texture and adds another layer of coconut flavor.
  • Toasted Sesame Seeds (for garnish): Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty flavor and a pleasant textural contrast to the soft, sticky rice. They also add a visually appealing garnish.
  • Fresh Fruit (Mango, Banana, Berries): Purple sticky rice pairs beautifully with fresh fruit. Sliced mango, banana, or a mix of berries offer a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the rice.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Perfect Purple Sticky Rice

Making purple sticky rice is surprisingly straightforward. The key is to follow the steps carefully, especially regarding soaking and cooking the rice. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure your purple sticky rice turns out perfectly every time:

Step 1: Rinse and Soak the Rice (Essential for Texture)

• Place the black glutinous rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from becoming overly gummy.
• Transfer the rinsed rice to a bowl and cover it with cold water. The water level should be about 2-3 inches above the rice.
• Soak the rice for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. Soaking is crucial for softening the rice grains and ensuring they cook evenly and become perfectly sticky. The rice will absorb water and expand in size. If soaking overnight, you can leave it at room temperature if your kitchen is cool, or in the refrigerator if it’s warm.

Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Milk Mixture

• In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and salt.
• Optional: Add Pandan Leaves: If using pandan leaves, tie them into a knot and add them to the saucepan with the coconut milk mixture.
• Heat the coconut milk mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt are dissolved. Do not bring it to a boil at this stage. Just warm it through to help the sugar dissolve.
• Remove from heat and set aside. If using pandan leaves, you can leave them in the mixture to infuse further while the rice is cooking.

Step 3: Steam the Rice (Traditional Method for Best Texture)

• Drain the Soaked Rice: After soaking, drain the rice completely using a sieve. Discard the soaking water.
• Prepare a Steamer: You can use a traditional bamboo steamer, a metal steamer basket placed inside a pot, or even a rice cooker with a steaming function. Line the bottom of your steamer with parchment paper or cheesecloth to prevent the rice from sticking and falling through the holes.
• Steam the Rice: Spread the drained rice evenly in the prepared steamer basket. Place the steamer over a pot of boiling water (make sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the steamer basket).
• Steam for 20-25 minutes: Cover the steamer tightly and steam the rice over medium-high heat. Check the water level in the pot periodically and add more boiling water if needed.
• Check for Doneness: After 20 minutes, check the rice. It should be translucent and slightly sticky. If it’s still opaque and hard, steam for another 5-10 minutes, checking every few minutes. The exact steaming time can vary depending on the steamer and the rice.

Step 4: Combine Rice with Coconut Milk and Finish Cooking

• Transfer Steamed Rice to Saucepan: Once the rice is steamed and tender, carefully transfer it to the saucepan with the warm coconut milk mixture. Remove the pandan leaves if used.
• Gently Stir and Simmer: Gently stir the rice and coconut milk mixture to combine everything evenly.
• Simmer over Low Heat: Place the saucepan over low heat and simmer gently for another 10-15 minutes, or until the coconut milk is absorbed by the rice and the mixture becomes thick and creamy. Stir frequently to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan. The rice should become even stickier and take on a glossy appearance.
• Optional: Add Vanilla Extract: If using vanilla extract, stir it in during the last few minutes of simmering.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

• Rest Before Serving: Once the coconut milk is absorbed and the rice is creamy, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the purple sticky rice rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to become even better.
• Serve Warm or at Room Temperature: Purple sticky rice can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
• Garnish and Serve: Spoon the purple sticky rice into bowls or plates. Drizzle with extra coconut cream if desired, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Serve with fresh fruit like mango, banana, or berries for a complete and delightful dessert.

Purple Sticky Rice Nutrition Facts (Estimated)

Please note that these are estimated nutritional values and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This is an approximate breakdown per serving (assuming the recipe serves approximately 6-8 people):

• Serving Size: Approximately ½ cup cooked purple sticky rice
• Calories per Serving: 250-300 calories (depending on sugar level and coconut milk richness)
• Total Fat: 10-15g (primarily from coconut milk, including saturated fat)
• Saturated Fat: 8-12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 100-150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35-45g
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugars: 20-25g (added sugar and natural sugars from coconut milk)
• Protein: 2-3g

Nutritional Highlights:

• Antioxidants: Black glutinous rice is a good source of anthocyanins, the same antioxidants that give blueberries and other purple fruits their vibrant color. Anthocyanins are linked to various health benefits, including protecting against cell damage.
• Energy Source: Sticky rice is a carbohydrate-rich food, providing a good source of energy.
• Iron: Black rice varieties often contain more iron than white rice.
• Gluten-Free: Despite the name “glutinous,” sticky rice is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Coconut Milk Benefits: Coconut milk provides healthy fats, although it’s also high in saturated fat, so moderation is key. It also contains some electrolytes like potassium.

Important Considerations:

• Sugar Content: This dessert is relatively high in sugar. Adjust the sugar level to your preference and consider using natural sweeteners in moderation if you are watching your sugar intake.
• Saturated Fat: Coconut milk is high in saturated fat. While some studies suggest that the saturated fat in coconut may not be as detrimental as previously thought, it’s still important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes, especially due to the calorie and carbohydrate content.

Disclaimer: This nutritional information is an estimate. For accurate nutritional values, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and measurements of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time for Purple Sticky Rice

The total time to make purple sticky rice involves soaking, preparation, and cooking. Here’s a breakdown:

• Soaking Time: 4 hours minimum, ideally overnight (8-12 hours). This is the most time-consuming part, but it’s mostly hands-off. Active soaking time: 5 minutes (to rinse and place in water)
• Preparation Time (Rinsing, Measuring Ingredients, Setting up Steamer): 15-20 minutes
• Steaming Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on steamer and rice)
• Simmering Time in Coconut Milk: 10-15 minutes
• Resting Time: 5-10 minutes

Total Time (excluding soaking): Approximately 50-75 minutes

Total Time (including minimum soaking): Approximately 4 hours 50 minutes – 5 hours 45 minutes
Total Time (including overnight soaking): Approximately 8 hours 50 minutes – 13 hours 45 minutes (mostly passive soaking time)

Hands-on Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes (rinsing, prep, steaming checks, stirring, serving)

Tips for Time Management:

• Soak Rice Ahead of Time: The best way to manage time is to soak the rice the night before or in the morning if you plan to make purple sticky rice in the evening.
• Multitask: While the rice is soaking, you can prepare other parts of your meal or do other kitchen tasks. While the rice is steaming, you can prepare the coconut milk mixture.

How to Serve Purple Sticky Rice: Delightful Serving Suggestions

Purple sticky rice is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to create a delightful dessert experience. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Classic & Simple:
  • Warm with Coconut Cream: The most traditional and simplest way to serve purple sticky rice is warm, drizzled generously with thick coconut cream. The creamy coconut milk complements the sticky rice perfectly.
  • Toasted Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty aroma, flavor, and a pleasant crunch.
  • Plain and Simple: Enjoy it plain! Sometimes the simple flavors of the rice, coconut milk, and subtle sweetness are all you need.
• With Fresh Fruit:
  • Mango Sticky Rice Inspired: Slice ripe mango and serve it alongside the purple sticky rice. This combination is reminiscent of the famous Mango Sticky Rice dessert and is incredibly refreshing.
  • Banana Slices: Slices of ripe banana pair wonderfully with the creamy texture of the sticky rice.
  • Mixed Berries: A medley of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides a vibrant color contrast and a tart counterpoint to the sweetness.
  • Tropical Fruit Platter: Create a platter with a variety of tropical fruits like pineapple, papaya, dragon fruit, and jackfruit to serve with the purple sticky rice for an exotic treat.
• Savory-Sweet Combinations (For the Adventurous Palate):
  • With Salted Coconut Caramel: Drizzle a salted coconut caramel sauce over the purple sticky rice for a more indulgent and complex flavor profile.
  • Peanut Brittle Crumbles: Sprinkle crushed peanut brittle for a sweet and salty crunch.
  • Toasted Coconut Flakes (Sweetened or Unsweetened): Toasted coconut flakes add another layer of coconut flavor and a textural element. Sweetened flakes will enhance the sweetness, while unsweetened flakes offer a more subtle coconut taste.
• Serving Temperature:
  • Warm: Purple sticky rice is most traditionally served warm, especially as a comforting dessert.
  • Room Temperature: It can also be enjoyed at room temperature, making it convenient for potlucks or picnics.
  • Cold (Less Common): While less common, some people enjoy it chilled, especially in warmer climates. The texture will become firmer when cold.
• Presentation Ideas:
  • Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls for a personal touch.
  • Molded Shapes: For a more elegant presentation, you can mold the sticky rice using small bowls or ramekins before serving. Invert them onto plates to create neat, rounded portions.
  • Banana Leaf Cups (Traditional): For a truly authentic presentation, serve purple sticky rice in small cups made from banana leaves, if you have access to them.

Additional Tips for Perfect Purple Sticky Rice

Here are five additional tips to ensure your purple sticky rice turns out amazing every time:

1. Don’t Skimp on Soaking Time: Soaking the rice for the recommended time (at least 4 hours, ideally overnight) is absolutely crucial. It softens the grains, reduces cooking time, and ensures even cooking and a perfectly sticky texture. Rushing the soaking process will result in rice that is hard in the center and unevenly cooked.
2. Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk is essential for the rich, creamy texture and authentic flavor of purple sticky rice. Lite coconut milk will result in a thinner, less flavorful dessert. The fat content is what gives the dish its luxurious mouthfeel.
3. Gentle Stirring is Key: When simmering the rice in the coconut milk, stir gently and frequently. This prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even absorption of the coconut milk. However, avoid over-stirring, as it can make the rice gummy. Gentle, occasional stirring is sufficient.
4. Adjust Sweetness to Your Taste: The recipe calls for ½ cup of sugar, which creates a moderately sweet dessert. Feel free to adjust the sugar level to your preference. Start with less sugar and add more to taste as you are simmering the rice in the coconut milk. You can also use alternative sweeteners like palm sugar or brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
5. Don’t Overcook: Overcooking purple sticky rice can make it mushy. Keep a close eye on it while steaming and simmering. The rice is done steaming when it’s translucent and slightly sticky. It’s done simmering in coconut milk when the liquid is absorbed and the rice is creamy and glossy. Once it reaches this stage, remove it from the heat promptly to prevent overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Purple Sticky Rice

Here are five frequently asked questions about purple sticky rice to help you master this delightful dessert:

Q1: Can I use regular black rice instead of black glutinous rice?

A: No, you cannot substitute regular black rice (like black japonica rice or black wild rice) for black glutinous rice. Regular black rice is not sticky and will not achieve the desired texture for this dessert. Glutinous rice, also known as sweet rice or sticky rice, has a higher starch content that makes it sticky when cooked. Look specifically for “black glutinous rice” or “purple sticky rice” when purchasing.

Q2: Do I have to soak the rice overnight? Can I soak it for a shorter time?

A: While soaking overnight is ideal (8-12 hours), you can soak the rice for a minimum of 4 hours if you are short on time. Soaking for at least 4 hours is still crucial for softening the grains and ensuring even cooking. Soaking for less than 4 hours is not recommended as the rice may not cook properly and may remain hard in the center.

Q3: Can I cook purple sticky rice in a rice cooker?

A: Yes, you can cook purple sticky rice in a rice cooker, especially if your rice cooker has a steaming function. After soaking the rice, you can steam it in the rice cooker using the steaming basket. For the final step of simmering in coconut milk, you might need to transfer the steamed rice to a saucepan to better control the simmering process and prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the rice cooker. Some advanced rice cookers might have settings suitable for making sticky rice desserts, so check your rice cooker’s manual.

Q4: How do I store leftover purple sticky rice? How long does it last?

A: Store leftover purple sticky rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days. The texture may become slightly firmer when chilled. To reheat, you can gently steam it again for a few minutes, or microwave it in short intervals with a splash of water or coconut milk to restore its moisture and stickiness.

Q5: Can I make purple sticky rice ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make purple sticky rice ahead of time, which is convenient for meal prepping or entertaining. You can prepare it up to 1-2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator as described above. Reheat it gently before serving. The flavor actually often deepens slightly as it sits. However, for the absolute best texture, it is best enjoyed fresh or within a day of making it.

Print