Prepare for a culinary adventure with this captivating recipe for Sticky Rice infused with the vibrant hues and subtle earthy notes of butterfly pea flower. This stunningly blue rice, a visual masterpiece, is surprisingly simple to make and offers a unique twist on a classic Southeast Asian staple. Its soft, fragrant texture and beautiful color make it perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. Imagine the compliments you'll receive when you serve this visually striking and delicious dish!
The vibrant blue color comes entirely from natural butterfly pea flower, adding a touch of both beauty and health benefits to this already delicious rice. Forget complicated techniques – this recipe is straightforward and achievable, even for beginner cooks. Ready to transform your next meal into a feast for the eyes and palate? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide and create this magical sticky rice together.
Tools Needed
- Steamer
- Pot
- Pan
- Freezer
- Box
Ingredients
- Sticky rice (Thai sticky rice recommended): 1 kg
- Butterfly pea flower: 100g (or 20g if using less)
- Coconut milk: 700 ml
- Water from defrosted butterfly pea flower: 100 ml
- Sugar: 170g
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- If using fresh flowers, use about 20g and add hot water to extract color. If using frozen, defrost 100g. (Note: Freezing the flowers beforehand intensifies the color)
- Wash sticky rice and soak for 30 minutes. (Do not soak for longer than 1 hour to prevent mushiness)
- Combine 700ml coconut milk with 100ml of the butterfly pea flower water (or extracted color).
Step 2. Steam the Rice
- Steam the soaked sticky rice for 35 minutes over high heat, until it's dry but not sticky. If using a smaller pot or more rice, stir halfway through.
Step 3. Prepare Coconut Milk Mixture & Combine with Rice
- In a pan, combine the coconut milk mixture, sugar, and salt. Cook over low heat until sugar dissolves, then turn off the heat.
- Add the steamed sticky rice to the coconut milk mixture. Stir well to ensure even absorption. Then, turn the heat back on low and stir continuously for 7-8 minutes until the rice is dry and evenly coated.
Read more: Vietnamese Sticky Rice with Gac (Red Melon) - Easy Recipe
Tips
- Freezing butterfly pea flowers intensifies the color.
- Don't soak the sticky rice for too long to prevent mushiness.
- Stir the sticky rice while steaming if using a smaller pot or larger quantity.
- Stir the rice and coconut milk mixture frequently to prevent lumps and ensure even cooking.
- Use low heat throughout the cooking process to avoid burning the rice.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use dried butterfly pea flowers instead of fresh?
Yes! Use about 1-2 teaspoons of dried butterfly pea flowers per cup of rice. Steep them in hot water for 10-15 minutes before adding to the rice.
2. How do I make the rice extra sticky?
Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Also, ensure you use a good quality glutinous rice (also known as sweet rice).
This vibrant and flavorful sticky rice is a delightful addition to any meal, impressing both your taste buds and your guests. Its unique color and delicate aroma make it a perfect side dish or even a beautiful dessert base. Enjoy the simple elegance and unforgettable taste of this easy-to-make butterfly pea flower sticky rice!