Sticky Rice Recipe

Sticky rice is soft, slightly chewy, and beautifully glossy with a gentle sweetness that makes it incredibly comforting. This simple recipe produces perfectly tender grains that cling together just enough without becoming heavy. It is easy to prepare, even for beginners, and requires minimal ingredients. From start to finish, the dish takes around 40 minutes and delivers consistently satisfying results.

Ingredients

For the Sticky Rice

• 250g glutinous rice (sticky rice)
• 400ml water
• 1/2 tsp salt

Optional Sweet Topping

• 200ml coconut milk
• 2 tbsp caster sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt

How to Make Sticky Rice Recipe

• Prepare the rice: Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water several times until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in fresh water for at least 20 minutes, then drain well.
• Prepare the cooking setup: Add the drained rice and measured water into a medium saucepan. Stir in the salt and place over medium heat.
• Cook the rice: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the water is absorbed.
• Steam and rest: Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for 10 minutes. This allows it to finish steaming and develop its sticky texture.
• Prepare the topping (optional): In a small saucepan, gently heat coconut milk, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Do not boil.
• Assemble and serve: Fluff the rice lightly with a fork. Spoon into bowls and drizzle with the warm coconut mixture if using.

Tips

Why is my sticky rice too dry?

This usually means there was not enough water or the heat was too high. Keep the heat low and ensure the lid stays on while cooking.

How do I get perfectly sticky texture?

Using glutinous rice is essential. Soaking the rice beforehand also helps achieve the right consistency.

Can I make it sweeter?

Yes, increase the sugar in the coconut topping or add a drizzle of honey before serving.

Why is my rice mushy?

Too much water or overcooking can cause this. Measure carefully and avoid stirring during cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with fresh mango slices for a classic pairing
• Enjoy alongside grilled chicken or vegetables
• Top with toasted sesame seeds for extra texture
• Drizzle with coconut cream for a richer finish

Storage

Room Temperature

Best enjoyed fresh, but can sit covered for up to 4 hours.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water.

Freezing

Freeze in portions for up to 1 month. Defrost overnight and steam lightly to restore texture.

Nutrition

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg

These values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Sticky Rice Recipe

Recipe by Milli RoseCourse: Side DishCuisine: AsianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

Soft, tender sticky rice with a delicate chew and optional coconut sweetness. A simple and comforting dish perfect for both sweet and savoury pairings.

Ingredients

• 250g glutinous rice

• 400ml water

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 200ml coconut milk

• 2 tbsp caster sugar

• 1/4 tsp salt

Directions

• Rinse and soak the glutinous rice, then drain well.
• Add rice, water and salt to a saucepan.
• Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low heat.
• Cook until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
• Rest covered for 10 minutes.
• Heat coconut milk with sugar and salt if using.
• Serve rice warm with topping if desired.

Notes

• Soaking the rice improves texture.
• Keep the lid on during cooking for best results.
• Adjust sweetness to taste.