Mango Sago Delight is a luscious tropical dessert that blends the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes with the chewy texture of sago (tapioca pearls) and the creaminess of coconut and evaporated milk. Served chilled in elegant glasses, it’s the ultimate refreshment for warm-weather days and a favorite across many Asian cuisines.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert is as easy to prepare as it is satisfying. With no baking required, Mango Sago Delight is perfect for hot days when you want something cool and sweet. Its creamy texture, vibrant mango flavor, and pleasantly chewy pearls make each bite both rich and refreshing. It’s also highly customizable and naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup small tapioca pearls (sago)
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup mango purée
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk or condensed milk (adjust for desired sweetness)
- 2–3 tbsp sugar (optional, to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- Ice cubes or chill before serving
directions
- In a pot of boiling water, cook the sago for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent clumping, until translucent.
- Drain the sago using a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine coconut milk, evaporated or condensed milk, mango purée, sugar (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
- Add the cooked and rinsed sago to the coconut-mango mixture and stir gently to combine.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes until well chilled.
- To serve, divide into dessert glasses or bowls. Top with fresh mango cubes and add ice cubes if desired for extra chill.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Calories per serving: 210 kcal
Variations
- Vegan Option: Use sweetened condensed coconut milk or extra coconut milk with agave syrup in place of dairy.
- Mango Pomelo Sago: Add pomelo pulp or grapefruit segments for a tangy contrast.
- Lychee or Pineapple Twist: Substitute or combine mango with tropical fruits like lychee or pineapple.
- Texture Boost: Mix in nata de coco or sago jelly cubes for extra chew.
- Creamier Version: Use a blend of coconut cream and whole milk for a richer texture.
storage/reheating
Store Mango Sago Delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving as the sago may settle. Do not freeze, as freezing affects the texture of the sago and mango. This dessert is served chilled and does not require reheating.
FAQs
What is sago, and how is it different from tapioca pearls?
Sago and tapioca pearls are similar in appearance and texture, though sago is made from palm starch and tapioca from cassava. Both work well in this dessert.
Can I prepare sago in advance?
Yes, cooked sago can be stored in cold water in the fridge for up to one day. Drain before using in the dessert.
Can I use canned mango purée?
Yes, canned mango purée is a convenient alternative when fresh mangoes are not in season. Look for one without added sugar.
Is this dessert overly sweet?
The sweetness is adjustable—use condensed milk for a sweeter flavor or evaporated milk and sugar to control sweetness more precisely.
How can I thicken the dessert?
For a thicker consistency, use less liquid or incorporate a small amount of coconut cream.
Do I need to peel the mangoes?
Yes, peel and remove the pit before dicing or puréeing for the smoothest texture and cleanest presentation.
Can I serve this warm?
Traditionally, this dessert is served chilled for a refreshing finish, but it can be enjoyed warm if preferred.
Is it necessary to add a pinch of salt?
A small pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor balance, especially with sweet fruits and coconut milk.
What type of coconut milk should I use?
Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture, though light coconut milk can be used for a lighter version.
How do I avoid clumpy sago?
Stir frequently while boiling and rinse thoroughly under cold water to keep the pearls separate and chewy.
Conclusion
Mango Sago Delight is a light, tropical dessert that beautifully showcases the lush flavor of ripe mangoes and the creamy richness of coconut. Easy to prepare, naturally gluten-free, and wonderfully refreshing, it’s the perfect finish to any summer meal or festive occasion. Serve it chilled and enjoy a spoonful of sunshine in every bite.
PrintMango Sago Delight
A creamy tropical dessert made with ripe mangoes, chewy tapioca pearls, and coconut milk—refreshingly chilled and perfect for warm days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilled
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup small tapioca pearls (sago)
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup mango purée
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk or condensed milk (adjust sweetness)
- 2–3 tbsp sugar (optional, to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- Ice cubes or chill before serving
Instructions
- Cook sago in boiling water, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for about 10–15 minutes or until translucent.
- Drain and rinse sago under cold water. Set aside.
- In a bowl, mix coconut milk, evaporated or condensed milk, mango purée, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir in cooked sago and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve in glasses topped with fresh mango cubes and optional ice for extra refreshment.
Notes
- Use ripe, sweet mangoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust sweetness according to the type of milk used.
- Chilling enhances the texture and taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg