Dessert

Xoi Ube (Vietnamese Purple Sticky Rice with Ube) Recipe

Name: Xoi Ube (Vietnamese Purple Sticky Rice with Ube) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490150H1M25S
Total time: PT-490150H1M25S
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 1 cup glutinous rice; 2 cups water; ¼ tsp ube extract; ¼ cup coconut milk; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; ¼ tsp salt; 1 tbsp shredded coconut; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; ½ tsp granulated sugar; 1 pinch salt; 1 tbsp shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)

ByClara Bennett November 29, 2025November 29, 2025

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Introduction

Xoi Ube is a vibrant and fragrant Vietnamese sticky rice dish infused with ube, a purple yam that adds a lovely color and subtle sweetness. This comforting treat combines creamy coconut milk, sweetened purple sticky rice, and a nutty sesame topping, perfect for a unique breakfast or dessert.

A bowl of purple sticky rice shaped into a dome with a glossy, slightly wet texture inside a white rustic ceramic bowl. The top layer of the rice is sprinkled with shredded white coconut and light brown sesame seeds, adding texture contrast. The bowl is placed on a soft olive-green textured cloth, all set against a white marbled surface with some grains of rice scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup glutinous rice
2 cups water
¼ tsp ube extract
¼ cup coconut milk
2 tbsp granulated sugar
¼ tsp salt
1 tbsp shredded coconut
1 tbsp sesame seeds
½ tsp granulated sugar
1 pinch salt
1 tbsp shredded coconut (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse 1 cup of glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear, about 4 to 5 times, to remove excess starch.
Step 2: Mix 2 cups of water with ¼ teaspoon of ube extract. Add the rinsed rice to this mixture and soak for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Step 3: Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a simmer and placing the steamer insert on top. Line the steamer with parchment paper, poking small holes to allow steam to pass through.
Step 4: Drain the soaked rice and spread it evenly on the parchment paper in the steamer. Cover and steam for 40 minutes. Check for doneness; if the rice is still hard, steam a few more minutes before testing again.
Step 5: While steaming, make the coconut sauce by combining ¼ cup coconut milk, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat.
Step 6: When the rice is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and pour the coconut sauce over it along with 1 tablespoon shredded coconut if desired. Mix well and let it absorb for 10 minutes.
Step 7: Make the sesame topping by toasting 1 tablespoon sesame seeds until golden. Grind them coarsely using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon. Stir in ½ teaspoon granulated sugar and a pinch of salt.
Step 8: Serve the sticky rice in bowls, topping with the sesame seed mixture and an additional tablespoon of shredded coconut if you like.

Tips & Variations

Soaking the rice overnight in ube-infused water enhances the flavor and texture of the sticky rice.
You can substitute ube extract with natural purple sweet potato for a milder flavor and natural color.
For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of coconut milk when mixing the cooked rice and sauce.
Toast sesame seeds lightly to bring out their nuttiness but avoid burning them to keep the flavor balanced.

Storage

Store leftover sticky rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat by steaming or microwaving with a sprinkle of water to restore moisture. The sesame topping is best added fresh before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up of white bowl filled with bright purple rice mixed with small white and yellow bits, creating a colorful texture. A spoon with an ornate handle is lifting a bite of the purple rice, showing the small grains and bits clearly. The woman's hand holding the spoon is visible at the bottom of the image. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a blurred gray cloth underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular rice instead of glutinous rice?

Glutinous rice is essential for the sticky texture in Xoi Ube. Regular rice won’t provide the same chewy consistency and may result in a less authentic dish.

Where can I find ube extract?

Ube extract is often available at Asian grocery stores or online. It provides a concentrated purple yam flavor and vibrant color, but if unavailable, you can try purple sweet potato as a natural substitute.