Discover how to make Khao Tom Mad, a delectable Thai coconut custard dessert. This recipe features creamy coconut milk combined with sweet sticky rice, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for any occasion, this traditional treat is easy to prepare and will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup sticky rice

- 1 cup coconut milk

- 1/2 cup sugar

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

- 1 banana leaf or parchment paper (for wrapping)

- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Sticky Rice:

  - Rinse the sticky rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

  - Soak the sticky rice in water for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Cook the Sticky Rice:

  - Drain the soaked rice and place it in a steamer basket lined with a banana leaf or cheesecloth.

  - Steam the rice over boiling water for about 30-40 minutes, or until tender.

Prepare the Coconut Custard Mixture:

  - In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract (if using).

  - Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Do not let it boil.

Combine Rice and Custard:

  - In a mixing bowl, gently fold the cooked sticky rice into the coconut milk mixture until well combined.

Steam the Custard:

  - If using banana leaves, cut them into squares and fold them into small containers or molds. If using parchment paper, line small bowls or ramekins with it.

  - Pour the rice and custard mixture into the prepared molds.

  - Steam over boiling water for 20-25 minutes, or until the custard is set.

Cool and Serve:

  - Allow the custard to cool to room temperature before removing it from the molds.

  - Garnish with shredded coconut if desired.

Enjoy:

  - Serve your Khao Tom Mad as a delightful dessert or sweet treat anytime.

Feel free to adjust the sweetness and coconut flavor to your taste!

Nutritional Values

Sticky Rice:

- Calories: 170

- Carbohydrates: 36g

- Protein: 3g

- Fat: 0.3g

- Fiber: 0.5g

Benefits:

- Provides energy through its carbohydrate content.

- Easy to digest, making it suitable for sensitive stomachs.

Coconut Milk:

- Calories: 445

- Carbohydrates: 6g

- Protein: 5g

- Fat: 48g (of which 43g are saturated fats)

- Fiber: 5g

Benefits:

- Rich in healthy fats (MCTs) that support heart health and weight management.

- Contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties.

- Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and iron.

Sugar:

- Calories: 49

- Carbohydrates: 13g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Fiber: 0g

Benefits:

- Provides a quick source of energy.

- Enhances the taste of dishes, making them more enjoyable.

Salt:

- Sodium: 2,300mg

Benefits:

- Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

- Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.

Vanilla Extract (optional):

- Calories: 12

- Carbohydrates: 0.5g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

Benefits:

- Contains antioxidants that may help fight oxidative stress.

- Adds a pleasant aroma and complex flavor to the dessert.

Shredded Coconut (optional garnish):

- Calories: 100

- Carbohydrates: 4g

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 9g

- Fiber: 3g

Benefits:

- Provides additional healthy fats (MCTs), supporting heart health.

- Contains important minerals such as manganese, copper, and iron.

Banana Leaf or Parchment Paper:

- Used for wrapping and steaming, with minimal impact on nutritional values.

These ingredients contribute to the overall flavor and nutritional profile of the Coconut Custard (Khao Tom Mad), offering energy, healthy fats, and essential nutrients.