Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding with Mango

Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding with Mango Compote: A Creamy Tropical Dream That Will Transport Your Taste Buds 🌱🥥🥭✨

1. Introduction

Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of this Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding, perfectly complemented by a vibrant mango compote that bursts with tropical flavors. This dairy-free dessert masterpiece is more than just a sweet treat – it’s a culinary journey to paradise that satisfies both your sweet tooth and your health-conscious side. Whether you’re fully committed to a vegan lifestyle or simply exploring plant-based alternatives to your favorite desserts, this recipe offers the perfect balance of comfort and exotic flair. The marriage of creamy coconut milk, aromatic rice, and sun-ripened mango creates a dessert experience that’s simultaneously nostalgic and excitingly new.

If you’re looking for more delicious vegan breakfast ideas, check out our Protein-Packed Overnight Oats recipe that’s perfect for meal prep!

2. Ingredients

Gathering quality ingredients is the first step to creating this heavenly Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this tropical dessert to life:

• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice – These fragrant varieties add an extra layer of aroma to your pudding
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk – The star ingredient that creates that luxurious creamy texture
• 2 cups water – For cooking the rice to perfection
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar or maple syrup – Natural sweeteners that complement the coconut flavor
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – A flavor enhancer that rounds out all the other ingredients
• 1/4 tsp salt – Just enough to balance the sweetness
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile
• 2 ripe mangoes, diced – Choose fragrant, slightly soft mangoes for the best compote
• 2 tbsp lime juice – Brightens up the mango compote beautifully
• 1 tbsp coconut oil – For cooking the mango compote to perfection
• Fresh mint and shredded coconut for garnish (optional) – These finishing touches make your dessert Instagram-worthy

For another tropical-inspired treat, try our Green Tea Smoothie with Matcha that’s packed with antioxidants!

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice to Perfection

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, coconut milk, and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered. This slow cooking process allows the rice to absorb all that wonderful coconut flavor while developing the perfect creamy consistency. Stir every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent clumping. The pudding is ready when the rice is tender but still has a slight bite (al dente) and the mixture has thickened to a luxurious, spoon-coating consistency (about 20-25 minutes).

Step 2: Sweeten the Pudding

Once the rice reaches the perfect texture, it’s time to add the magical finishing touches. Stir in the coconut sugar (or maple syrup for a different flavor dimension), vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon. The vanilla enhances all the other flavors, while the cinnamon adds a subtle warmth that complements the tropical notes. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes on low heat, allowing these ingredients to meld together harmoniously. This is when your kitchen will fill with the most incredible aroma! Remove from heat and let it cool slightly – the pudding will continue to thicken as it stands.

Step 3: Prepare the Mango Compote

While the pudding cools to the perfect serving temperature, let’s create the vibrant mango topping that takes this dessert to the next level. Heat coconut oil in a small saucepan over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced mangoes and lime juice – the acid from the lime will brighten the mango’s natural sweetness beautifully. Stir occasionally as the mangoes soften and release their glorious juices (about 5-7 minutes). You’ll know it’s ready when the mango pieces are tender but still hold their shape, and the juices have thickened slightly into a glossy syrup. For an extra special touch, you can mash some of the mango pieces to create a varied texture in your compote.

Looking for more fruit-based recipes? Our Frozen Yogurt Bark is a fantastic healthy snack option!

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Now comes the fun part – creating your dessert masterpiece! Spoon the warm Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding into beautiful serving bowls or elegant glasses for a more sophisticated presentation. Top generously with the mango compote, allowing the golden syrup to cascade down the sides of the creamy pudding. For that final restaurant-quality touch, garnish with a sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut (toasting enhances the flavor dramatically) and a few fresh mint leaves. The contrast of colors and textures makes this dessert as visually stunning as it is delicious. Serve immediately for a warm, comforting treat, or chill for 2-3 hours if you prefer a refreshing cold dessert – both versions are equally delightful!

For more inspiration on vegan cooking techniques, check out this excellent resource from our friends at Homemaker’s Habitat.

4. Tips for the Best Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding

• Quality matters: Use full-fat coconut milk (not light) for the creamiest, most luxurious texture. The higher fat content makes all the difference!
• Toast for flavor: For an extra dimension of taste, toast the rice lightly in a dry pan before cooking. This nutty flavor complements the coconut beautifully.
• Sweeten to taste: Adjust sweetness gradually – start with less sugar and add more if needed. Remember the mango compote will add additional sweetness.
• Patience pays off: Let the pudding rest for 10 minutes after cooking – it will thicken perfectly as it cools slightly.
• Texture control: If your pudding thickens too much upon standing, simply stir in a splash of coconut milk or almond milk to reach your desired consistency.

5. Creative Variations

• Chocolate Coconut Rice Pudding: Stir in 2 tbsp high-quality cocoa powder with the sugar for a decadent twist. Top with chocolate shavings for extra indulgence.
• Berry Compote: Replace mango with a mix of seasonal berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries) for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
• Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted almonds, cashews, or our Roasted Chickpeas (sweet version) for added texture and protein.
• Tropical Twist: Add diced pineapple or banana to the mango compote for an even more intense tropical experience.
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg along with the cinnamon for warm, complex flavors.

6. Storage Instructions

Store leftover Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools – when reheating, you can restore the creamy texture by stirring in a splash of coconut milk or almond milk. The mango compote can be stored separately in another airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, both components freeze surprisingly well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat the pudding on the stovetop with added liquid if needed.

7. Health Benefits

This Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding isn’t just delicious – it’s packed with nutritional benefits that make it a guilt-free indulgence:

• Coconut milk provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that are easily metabolized for energy
• Mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, boosting immunity and skin health
• The recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance
• Plant-based ingredients make it cholesterol-free and heart-healthy
• Contains natural sugars rather than refined white sugar for better blood sugar control

For more healthy meal ideas, try our Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower packed with anti-inflammatory benefits!

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier version?
A: Absolutely! Brown rice adds extra fiber and nutrients, though you’ll need to adjust the cooking time (about 40-45 minutes) and may need an additional 1/2 cup of liquid. The texture will be slightly chewier but equally delicious.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your vanilla extract is gluten-free certified if you’re highly sensitive.

Q: Can I use frozen mango when fresh isn’t available?
A: Frozen mango works wonderfully! Just thaw and drain excess liquid before making the compote. Frozen mango is often picked at peak ripeness, so it can actually yield great flavor.

Q: Can I make this pudding in a rice cooker?
A: Yes! Combine all pudding ingredients in the rice cooker and use the regular white rice setting. Stir in sweeteners after cooking.

Q: How can I make this recipe lower in sugar?
A: Reduce the sweetener by half and let the natural sweetness of coconut and mango shine through. You can also try our Protein Ice Cream for another low-sugar dessert option.

9. Conclusion

This Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding with Mango Compote is more than just a dessert – it’s a celebration of tropical flavors that delights all the senses. From its creamy, comforting texture to its vibrant, fruity topping, every spoonful offers a perfect balance of sweetness and sophistication. What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility: serve it warm for cozy comfort, chilled for refreshing delight, or even at room temperature for casual gatherings. It’s impressive enough for dinner parties yet simple enough for weeknight treats.

The beauty of this dessert lies in its ability to satisfy traditional rice pudding cravings while offering a completely dairy-free, plant-based alternative that even non-vegans will adore. Whether you’re looking for a healthier dessert option, exploring vegan cooking, or simply craving something deliciously different, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

We’d love to hear about your experience with this recipe! Did you try any creative variations? How did your family enjoy it? For more culinary inspiration, explore our collection of plant-based recipes that make eating healthy an absolute pleasure. Remember, great cooking is about making memories as much as meals – may this vegan coconut rice pudding become a cherished part of your recipe repertoire!

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