Sticky Rice(Khao Niew)

This recipe is a staple of Thai cuisine. It creates a versatile side dish that pairs well with savory grilled meats, rich curries, and fresh salads. This sticky rice has a subtle, natural sweetness and a unique, chewy texture that is a hallmark of glutinous rice. It is low in fat and has no cholesterol, making it a healthy addition to any meal. This recipe embodies the wholesome simplicity of Thai cooking, making it easy and delicious to prepare at home.

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Cook Time: 30

Course: Sides

Cuisine: Thai

Keyword: glutinous rice, sticky rice

Calories: 169kcal

Author: Susie Thompson

Ingredients

2 cups Thai sticky rice also known as glutinous rice or sweet rice
Water for soaking
2 ½ cups water for steaming

Equipment:

A large bowl for soaking the rice
A colander or fine-mesh sieve
A steamer or a rice cooker with a steaming basket
A pot or a rice cooker

Instructions

Soak the Rice:

Rinse the sticky rice under cold water 2-3 times to remove excess starch until the water runs relatively clear.
Soak the rice in a large bowl filled with enough water to cover it by at least 3 inches. Let it soak for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This soaking process is crucial for achieving the right texture.

Prepare the Steamer:

Fill the bottom of a steamer or a pot with 2 ½ cups of water. Bring the water to a boil. If you are using a steamer, line the steamer basket with cheesecloth or a clean, thin kitchen towel to prevent the rice from sticking or falling through.

Drain the Rice:

After soaking, drain the rice thoroughly using a colander or a fine-mesh sieve.

Steam the Rice:

Transfer the soaked and drained rice into the lined steamer basket. Spread it evenly to allow the steam to cook the rice uniformly.
Place the basket over the boiling water, cover, and steam for about 15-20 minutes. Then, stir or flip the rice to ensure even cooking. Cover and steam for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and sticky.

Rest the Rice:

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit covered for about 10 minutes. This allows the grains to set and become perfectly sticky.

Serve:

Fluff the rice gently with a fork or a rice paddle and serve it hot. Sticky rice is a perfect complement to a variety of dishes such as grilled meats, spicy Thai salads, or stir-fried vegetables.

Notes

To achieve the perfect texture in your Thai sticky rice, the soaking step is crucial. Ensure you soak the rice in plenty of water for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, before steaming. This process softens the grains, allowing them to cook evenly and become satisfyingly sticky. For the steaming process, use a traditional bamboo steamer if available. This not only imparts a subtle aroma that enhances the flavor but also allows the rice to steam evenly. Remember to line your steamer with cheesecloth or a similar material to prevent the rice from sticking to the basket. Enjoy your sticky rice warm, and pair it with your favorite Thai dishes to enjoy a truly authentic meal!

Nutrition

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