Sticky rice, also known as glutinous rice, is a staple food in many Asian cuisines, especially in Thailand. It has a unique sticky and chewy texture that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re a Thai food lover or just looking to try something new, learning how to cook sticky rice Thai style will enhance your culinary skills and introduce you to the authentic flavors of Thailand. In this simple guide, we will walk you through the process of cooking sticky rice in traditional Thai fashion.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before we delve into the cooking process, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. To cook sticky rice Thai style, you will need the following:
Sticky Rice:
Start by choosing the right type of sticky rice. Look for Thai sticky rice varieties, such as “hom mali” or “jasmine” sticky rice. These types of rice are short-grain and have a higher starch content, which contributes to their sticky texture.
Water:
You will need water to soak the rice and cook it later. It’s important to have enough water to fully submerge the rice during the soaking process.
Steaming Basket or Bamboo Basket:
A steaming basket or bamboo basket is essential for properly cooking sticky rice. These baskets allow the steam to circulate through the rice, resulting in a perfectly cooked and fluffy texture.
Optional Ingredients:
If you want to add some extra flavor to your sticky rice, you can include ingredients like pandan leaves, coconut milk, or salt. These ingredients are commonly used in Thai cuisine to enhance the taste and aroma of sticky rice.
Soaking the Rice
Once you have gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to start the cooking process. The first step is soaking the rice. Soaking helps soften the grains and remove excess starch, resulting in a better texture when cooked. Follow these steps to soak the rice:
1. Measure the Rice:
Begin by measuring the desired amount of sticky rice. Keep in mind that the rice will expand during the cooking process, so it’s recommended to use 1 cup of raw rice for a moderate serving.
2. Rinse the Rice:
Place the measured rice in a bowl and rinse it under cold water. Gently stir the rice with your fingers, allowing the water to remove any impurities or dust. Repeat this rinsing process 2-3 times until the water runs clear.
3. Soak the Rice:
Once the rice is thoroughly rinsed, add enough water to submerge the rice by at least an inch. Soak the rice for a minimum of 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Soaking the rice for a longer period will ensure that it becomes soft and fully cooked.
Steaming the Rice
After the rice has been soaked, it’s time to move on to the steaming process. Sticky rice is traditionally cooked by steaming rather than boiling, as it helps retain its sticky texture. Here’s how you can steam sticky rice Thai style:
1. Prepare the Steaming Basket:
Line a steaming basket or bamboo basket with a thin cotton cloth or banana leaves. This prevents the rice from sticking to the basket during the steaming process.
2. Drain the Rice:
After the soaking time has passed, drain the soaked rice using a colander or sieve. Make sure to remove any excess water to prevent the rice from becoming too mushy.
3. Set up the Steaming Equipment:
Place the steaming basket over a pot or wok filled with enough water to create steam. The water should not touch the bottom of the basket. You can use a traditional Thai steamer set, which consists of a pot and a fitted dome-shaped lid.
4. Steam the Rice:
Cover the steaming basket with a lid or aluminum foil to trap the steam. Steam the rice over medium heat for approximately 20-25 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the steam, becoming tender and sticky.
5. Check for Doneness:
To check if the rice is done, take a small amount and taste it. The grains should be soft and chewy, without any hardness in the center. If the rice is not cooked yet, steam it for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
Enhancing the Flavor
While sticky rice is delicious on its own, you can enhance its flavor by adding some traditional Thai ingredients. Here are a few options to consider:
Pandan Leaves:
Pandan leaves are a well-loved ingredient in Thai cuisine. They add a subtle floral aroma and a hint of sweetness to sticky rice. To use pandan leaves, tie a few leaves into a knot and place them on top of the rice while steaming. The steam will infuse the rice with their fragrance.
Coconut Milk:
Coconut milk is another popular addition to sticky rice. To incorporate coconut flavor, replace a portion of the soaking water with coconut milk. This will result in a creamy and aromatic sticky rice, commonly known as “khao niao mamuang” or mango sticky rice when served with fresh mango slices.
Salt:
For a savory twist, you can add a pinch of salt during the soaking process. The salt will balance the sweetness of the rice and create a harmonious flavor profile, especially when paired with spicy Thai dishes.
Serving and Enjoying Sticky Rice
Once the sticky rice is cooked to perfection, it’s time to enjoy it the Thai way. Sticky rice is often served alongside various Thai dishes or used as a base for delicacies such as mango sticky rice. Here are a few serving suggestions:
Thai Curry:
Pair sticky rice with your favorite Thai curry, such as green curry or massaman curry. The tender and sticky texture of the rice complements the robust flavors of the curry, creating a delightful combination.
Grilled Meats:
Sticky rice is an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats like satay or grilled chicken. Its sticky nature makes it easy to grab a small portion and dip it into the flavorful marinade or sauce of the grilled meat.
Desserts:
Don’t forget to explore the sweet side of sticky rice! Try serving it with sweetened coconut milk, fresh tropical fruits, or even as a filling in various Thai desserts. The versatility of sticky rice allows it to shine in both savory and sweet dishes.
Conclusion
Learning how to cook sticky rice Thai style is a gateway to experiencing the authentic flavors of Thailand. By following this simple guide, you can master the art of cooking sticky rice and create delicious meals that transport you to the bustling streets of Bangkok. So, gather your ingredients, soak the rice, steam it to perfection, and savor the unique taste and texture of this beloved Thai staple. Happy cooking!