Coconut rice treats are a delightful fusion of creamy coconut milk and sticky rice, creating a sweet and satisfying dessert. Perfect for any occasion, these treats are easy to make and offer a unique twist on traditional rice-based desserts. The addition of toasted shredded coconut on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances the coconut flavor.
If you don't commonly have coconut milk or sticky rice in your pantry, you'll need to pick these up at the supermarket. Coconut milk is usually found in the international or Asian foods aisle, while sticky rice might be located in the rice section or the Asian foods section. Make sure to get toasted shredded coconut as well, which can often be found in the baking aisle.
Ingredients for Coconut Rice Treats
Sticky rice: This type of rice, also known as glutinous rice, is essential for achieving the right texture in the treats.
Coconut milk: Provides a rich, creamy base that infuses the rice with a delightful coconut flavor.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the richness of the coconut milk.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
Toasted shredded coconut: Adds a crunchy texture and extra coconut flavor to the finished treats.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
To achieve the perfect texture for these coconut rice treats, ensure you use sticky rice. This type of rice has a higher starch content, which helps it bind better with the coconut milk mixture. When cooking the rice, make sure it's slightly undercooked before mixing it with the coconut milk; this will allow it to absorb the flavors without becoming mushy. Additionally, when pressing the mixture into the baking dish, use a piece of parchment paper to smooth the surface evenly. This will give you clean, professional-looking squares once the treats have set in the fridge.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
sticky rice - Substitute with sushi rice: Sushi rice has a similar sticky texture and can be used effectively in place of sticky rice.
coconut milk - Substitute with almond milk with coconut extract: Almond milk with a few drops of coconut extract can mimic the flavor and creaminess of coconut milk.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and can be used in a slightly lesser amount due to its higher sweetness intensity.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a unique umami flavor along with the saltiness, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
toasted shredded coconut - Substitute with toasted almond flakes: Toasted almond flakes provide a similar crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the dish.
Other Alternative Recipes
How to Store or Freeze These Treats
Allow the coconut rice treats to cool completely before storing. This ensures they maintain their texture and flavor.
For short-term storage, place the treats in an airtight container. Line the container with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
If you prefer to refrigerate, use an airtight container as well. The coconut rice treats can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Ensure they are well-covered to avoid absorbing any fridge odors.
To freeze, first cut the coconut rice treats into individual squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Place the wrapped squares in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for easy tracking. The treats can be frozen for up to 2 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the coconut rice treats in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker option, let them sit at room temperature for about an hour.
To restore their original texture, you can warm the treats slightly in the microwave for a few seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make them too soft.
Always check for any changes in texture or smell before consuming stored coconut rice treats. If they seem off, it's best to discard them.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Microwave Method: Place a piece of coconut rice treat on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check if it's warm enough; if not, continue in 10-second intervals.
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Wrap the coconut rice treats in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Steaming Method: Set up a steamer or use a pot with a steaming basket. Place the coconut rice treats in the steamer, ensuring they don't touch the water. Steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain the moisture and texture of the treats.
Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place the coconut rice treats in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method can give a slightly crispy edge to the treats.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Place the coconut rice treats in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overcook.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Saucepan: Used to heat the coconut milk, sugar, and salt mixture until the sugar dissolves.
Rice cooker: Ideal for cooking the sticky rice according to package instructions.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the cooked rice with the coconut milk mixture.
Baking dish: Used to press the rice mixture into shape before setting it in the fridge.
Spatula: Helps in mixing the rice with the coconut milk mixture and pressing it into the baking dish.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the rice, coconut milk, sugar, and toasted shredded coconut.
Refrigerator: Used to set the rice treats for at least 1 hour before cutting them into squares.
Knife: Used to cut the set rice treats into squares.
Toaster or oven: Used to toast the shredded coconut if it is not pre-toasted.
How to Save Time on Making These Treats
Use pre-cooked rice: Save time by using pre-cooked sticky rice from the store. Just reheat and mix with the coconut milk mixture.
Microwave the mixture: Instead of using a saucepan, microwave the coconut milk, sugar, and salt mixture to dissolve the sugar faster.
Quick cooling: Spread the rice mixture thinly on a baking sheet to cool it faster before pressing it into the baking dish.
Pre-toasted coconut: Buy pre-toasted shredded coconut to skip the toasting step and save time.
Coconut Rice Treats
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Rice preferably sticky rice
- 1 cup Coconut milk
- ½ cup Sugar
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Shredded coconut toasted
Instructions
- 1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
- 2. In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat until sugar dissolves.
- 3. Mix the cooked rice with the coconut milk mixture. Let it cool slightly.
- 4. Press the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle toasted coconut on top.
- 5. Let it set in the fridge for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses
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