Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure unlike any other! Durian sticky rice, a beloved Southeast Asian dessert, is a truly unforgettable experience. This fragrant, creamy, and intensely flavorful dish combines the pungent sweetness of durian with the soft, chewy texture of coconut milk-infused sticky rice. While the aroma of durian may be polarizing, its taste is undeniably captivating, offering a rich and complex profile that will tantalize your taste buds. For those new to this exotic fruit, the creamy, custard-like texture is surprisingly pleasant, balanced perfectly by the sweetness of the sticky rice.
Imagine sinking your spoon into a warm, comforting bowl of this decadent dessert. The combination of the smooth, sweet rice and the pungent, creamy durian is a match made in heaven. Ready to create this masterpiece in your own kitchen? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and discover the secrets to making authentic and delicious durian sticky rice.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Steamer
- Banana leaves or plate
- Chopsticks
Ingredients
- Sticky rice: 600g
- Mung beans (in shell): 200g
- Coconut milk: 400ml
- Sugar: 50-60g
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Cornstarch or rice flour: 2 teaspoons
- Green onions
- Peanuts: 3-4 tablespoons
- Durian
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Water: 200ml
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Sticky Rice
- Wash sticky rice thoroughly and soak for at least 3-4 hours (or pre-soak).
- Rinse soaked sticky rice gently, drain in a basket for 5-10 minutes.
- Soak mung beans for 1 hour or less.
- Combine sticky rice and mung beans, mix gently.
- Steam the rice mixture for 35 minutes over medium-high heat without opening the lid.
- Once steamed, drain excess water from the sticky rice.
- Add coconut milk (or water) to the cooked sticky rice, stir gently, and steam for another 5-7 minutes on medium heat.
Step 2. Make the Coconut Milk Sauce
- Combine coconut milk, sugar, salt, and cornstarch/rice flour. Stir until dissolved.
- Cook coconut milk sauce over low heat until it gently boils and thickens (1-2 minutes).
- Stir in chopped green onions just before turning off the heat.
Step 3. Prepare the Toppings
- Crush peanuts, mix with sugar and salt (and sesame seeds if desired).
Step 4. Assemble and Serve
- Serve sticky rice with durian, peanut salt, and coconut milk. Garnish with shredded or toasted coconut if desired.
Read more: Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Gac (Red Melon) - Easy Recipe
Tips
- If using sticky rice cake, bake it and then let it air dry for a day before using.
- Be gentle when mixing the soaked sticky rice and mung beans to avoid breaking them.
- Don't boil the coconut milk sauce vigorously; cook it gently until thickened.
- Add coconut milk in stages to the sticky rice to ensure even mixing.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use canned durian instead of fresh durian?
Yes, canned durian works well, but fresh durian offers a superior flavor and texture. Just make sure to drain the canned durian well before using it.
2. What if I don't like the strong smell of durian?
While the smell is strong, the creamy texture and sweet flavor often surprise those who are hesitant. You can try using less durian or pairing it with other strong flavors like coconut milk to balance the taste.
So there you have it – your very own batch of delicious durian sticky rice! This seemingly simple dessert packs a powerful flavor punch, and we hope this recipe has helped you master its delightful nuances. Enjoy this unique and unforgettable treat!