Steamed sticky rice, Thai-style, is a staple in Thailand and many other regions. This delightful grain is enjoyed at almost every meal, offering a delightful chewy texture and a rich, satisfying flavor. While it requires some planning and soaking, making sticky rice is easy and well worth the effort. You can find the right rice in Asian markets, and once you have it, you’ll be able to enjoy this delicious rice with various flavorings and accompaniments.
MAKES: 4 servings
TIME: About 2 hours, largely unattended
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 1/2 cups sticky rice (broken jasmine rice is commonly used)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper or soy sauce
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Rinse the sticky rice and then soak it in water to cover for 1 to 24 hours. After soaking, drain the rice and wrap it in cheesecloth. Place the wrapped rice in a steamer set above boiling water.
- Steam the rice for approximately 30 minutes until it becomes tender. Sticky rice is forgiving, so you can keep it warm over low heat for an hour or more. If you’ve cooked the rice in advance, wrap it tightly and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. Re-steam it before serving.
- Before serving, sprinkle the steamed sticky rice with salt and freshly ground black pepper or drizzle it with soy sauce.
VARIATIONS:
- Sticky Rice with Soy Sauce and Coconut Milk: Toss the cooked sticky rice with 1 cup of coconut milk and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Rewrap the rice and steam it or microwave it for a few minutes to reheat.
- Sticky Rice with Shallots and Peanuts or Coconut: While the rice is cooking, toast about 1/2 cup of peanuts or shredded unsweetened coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Chop the peanuts and toss them with 1/4 cup chopped shallot or scallion, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lime juice. Mix the prepared rice with this flavorful mixture, rewrap it, and steam or microwave for a few minutes to reheat.
USES:
- Serve steamed sticky rice as a side dish with a wide range of Thai and Asian-inspired dishes, such as curries, stir-fries, and grilled meats or seafood.
- Enjoy sticky rice with traditional Thai accompaniments like coconut milk, soy sauce, and fresh herbs for a delightful burst of flavors.
- Explore different variations to create a unique dining experience each time you serve this versatile rice.
Discover the joys of Thai-style steamed sticky rice, a beloved staple that complements a multitude of dishes. While it requires some advance preparation, the process is straightforward and rewarding. Whether served simply with salt and pepper or elevated with coconut milk and soy sauce, the tender and chewy texture of sticky rice will leave you craving more. Embrace the variety of flavors by trying out different variations and accompaniments to create a delightful culinary experience with this beloved grain. Make steamed sticky rice a cherished addition to your meals, capturing the essence of Thai cuisine in every bite.
