Passion Fruit Sticky Rice Sauce Recipe –Easy,Sweet,& Creamy
Enjoy a tropical treat with this Passion Fruit Sticky Rice Sauce. The creamy coconut milk, chewy sticky rice, and tangy passion fruit create a delicious balance of flavors. This dessert is easy to make with simple ingredients. Serve it warm, chilled, or at room temperature.
Benefits of Passion Fruit Sticky Rice Sauce
1. Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free
This recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, making it perfect for various dietary needs.
2. Perfect Flavor Balance
Sweet sticky rice, rich coconut milk, and zesty Passion Fruit Sticky Rice Sauce come together for a delicious blend of flavors. The sweetness and tanginess make every bite exciting.
3. Simple to Make
Cook the sticky rice in a steamer, rice cooker, or pot. The passion fruit sauce comes together in minutes. No special skills required.
4. Great for Energy
This dessert keeps you full and satisfied.
5. Easy to Customize
Add fresh mango, crunchy coconut flakes, or a drizzle of honey. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to match your taste.
This Sticky Rice with Passion Fruit Sauce is a luscious, coconut-infused dessert with a rich and chewy texture. The sticky rice is cooked to perfection and combined with creamy coconut milk, then topped with a vibrant passion fruit sauce that brings a sweet and tangy contrast. This dish is perfect for warm-weather indulgence and pairs beautifully with fresh fruits.
Ingredients
Sticky Rice Base
1¼cups glutinous rice (sticky rice)
1½cups water (for cooking the rice)
1can unsweetened coconut milk (13.5 oz)
½cup granulated sugar
½teaspoon salt
Passion Fruit Sauce
2tablespoons passion fruit puree (fresh or store-bought)
⅓cup reserved coconut milk mixture (from above)
1teaspoon tapioca starch (or cornstarch)
2teaspoons water (to dissolve the starch)
Garnishes (Optional)
¼cup pomegranate arils
1tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Fresh mango slices (optional)
Instructions
1. Preparing the Sticky Rice
1
Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 1 ½ cups of water.
3
Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the water is absorbed.
4
Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes to finish steaming.
2. Making the Sweet Coconut Sauce
5
In a separate saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and salt.
6
Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves.
7
Once it starts simmering, remove from heat.
8
Reserve ⅓ cup of this mixture for the passion fruit sauce.
3. Combining the Sticky Rice and Coconut Sauce
9
Transfer the cooked sticky rice to a large mixing bowl.
10
Gradually pour the warm coconut sauce over the rice while gently stirring to ensure even absorption.
11
Cover and let it rest at room temperature for 1 hour so the flavors meld.
4. Preparing the Passion Fruit Sauce
12
In a small bowl, dissolve tapioca starch in 2 teaspoons of water.
13
In a small saucepan, mix the reserved ⅓ cup coconut milk sauce with the passion fruit puree.
14
Bring to a light simmer over medium heat.
15
Stir in the tapioca starch mixture and continue to cook while stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes).
16
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Serving the Dessert
17
Scoop portions of the coconut-infused sticky rice onto serving plates.
18
Drizzle the warm or cooled passion fruit sauce generously over the rice.
19
Garnish with pomegranate arils, toasted sesame seeds, or fresh mango slices for added texture and color.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Amount Per Serving
Calories350kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat10g16%
Saturated Fat8g40%
Total Carbohydrate60g20%
Dietary Fiber3g12%
Sugars15g
Protein4g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
1. Understanding Sticky Rice
Sticky rice, also known as glutinous rice, is a staple in many Southeast Asian desserts. Despite its name, it contains no gluten. Its unique texture allows it to absorb rich flavors, making it perfect for pairing with coconut milk and tropical fruits.
Choosing the Right Rice
Always use glutinous (sweet) rice, not regular white rice or jasmine rice.
It has a naturally sticky texture when cooked, which is essential for achieving the desired consistency.
Glutinous rice is available in most Asian grocery stores or online.
How to Rinse and Soak Properly
Rinsing is essential to remove excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming overly gummy.
If using the steaming method, soak the rice for at least 3-4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
The soaking step can be skipped if using the stovetop absorption method, but the rice may take slightly longer to cook.
2. Importance of Coconut Milk in the Recipe
Coconut milk is the key ingredient that gives this dish its creamy, rich taste. It balances the tanginess of the passion fruit sauce while enhancing the sticky rice’s flavor.
Choosing the Best Coconut Milk
Full-fat coconut milk is recommended for a creamy texture. Avoid low-fat versions, as they lack richness.
Shake the can well before opening to evenly mix the coconut cream and liquid.
Check for additives—some brands contain preservatives or thickeners that may alter the taste and texture.
Cooking Tips for Coconut Sauce
Always simmer on low to medium heat to prevent separation.
Avoid boiling, as high heat can cause the coconut milk to curdle.
Stir continuously for a smooth and velvety consistency.
3. Perfecting the Passion Fruit Sauce
Passion fruit adds a vibrant, tangy contrast to the creamy rice. It enhances the tropical flavor profile of the dish.
How to Extract Passion Fruit Puree
Cut a ripe passion fruit in half and scoop out the pulp.
Strain the pulp through a fine sieve to remove seeds if a smooth consistency is preferred.
If fresh passion fruit is unavailable, store-bought passion fruit puree or frozen pulp can be used.
Balancing Sweetness and Acidity
Passion fruit is naturally tart, so if a sweeter sauce is desired, a small amount of honey or sugar can be added.
The coconut milk in the dish already adds natural sweetness, so balance accordingly.
If the sauce is too thick, a teaspoon of water can be added to thin it out.
4. Achieving the Best Sticky Rice Texture
The texture of sticky rice is crucial for a satisfying dessert experience. It should be soft yet slightly chewy, without being mushy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using the wrong type of rice – Only use glutinous rice. Regular rice won’t produce the desired texture. ❌ Skipping the resting step – Allow the rice to absorb the coconut milk for at least an hour to maximize flavor. ❌ Overcooking the rice – It should be tender but not mushy. If unsure, check the rice frequently during cooking. ❌ Adding too much liquid at once – Always pour the coconut sauce gradually to prevent the rice from becoming soggy.
5. Best Serving Suggestions
This dessert is incredibly versatile and pairs well with other tropical ingredients.
Serving Temperature
Warm: Enhances the richness of the coconut milk and makes the dish more comforting.
Room Temperature: Allows the flavors to fully develop.
Chilled: Refreshing and perfect for hot weather.
Garnishing Ideas
Pomegranate arils – Adds a pop of color and a juicy burst of flavor.
Fresh mango slices – A classic pairing with sticky rice, adding natural sweetness.
Toasted sesame seeds – Brings nuttiness and extra crunch.
Coconut flakes – Enhances the coconut flavor for a more indulgent taste.
6. Is This Recipe Halal?
Yes! All the ingredients used in this recipe—glutinous rice, coconut milk, sugar, and passion fruit—are plant-based and naturally halal. Just ensure that store-bought coconut milk and sugar are free from non-halal additives.
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Samantha Doe
Food and Lifestyle Blogger
Hi, I'm Samantha, a full-time food blogger, mother of 2 beautiful daughters and a lovely wife. I live in New Jersey with my family. Loves traveling, sharing new recipes, and spending time with my family.