Mango Sago Recipe (With Pomelo)

May 14, 2025

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Mango Sago is a pleasant Asian dessert made with ripe mangoes, chewy tapioca pearls (sago), creamy coconut milk and wealthy condensed milk. This chilled deal with combines the tropical sweetness of mango with the sunshine, pudding-like texture of sago, providing a refreshing chunk that’s excellent for heat climate. It’s fast to assemble and completed with a couple of mango cubes and contemporary mint leaves on prime for a zingy twist. On this recipe of mine, I’ve additionally added some pomelo for additional fruitiness.

mango sago topped with sago, pomelo, mango balls, and a mint leaf in two glass cups with stems.

About Mango Sago

This Mango Sago recipe is a refreshing dessert that artfully balances taste, texture, and magnificence – impressed by the basic Cantonese delight, 楊枝甘露 (Yang Zhi Gan Lu), which implies “Willow Department Candy Dew.”

Historically made with mango, pomelo, tapioca pearls, and coconut milk, this easier model stays true to the spirit of the unique. It’s an ideal make-ahead deal with for small gatherings and finest served chilled.

The dessert traces its roots again to Hong Kong within the Eighties, the place it was first created by the well-known Lei Backyard restaurant and later turned a beloved a part of Cantonese delicacies.

Every spoonful of this Mango Sago brings collectively the tropical richness of mango, the creamy smoothness of sago (sabudana), and the juicy, citrusy crunch of pomelo.

The refined tang and bittersweet notes from pomelo fantastically distinction the velvety mango base, making a dessert that feels each luxurious and light-weight.

My travels throughout Southeast Asia; from the bustling streets of Thailand to the quiet cafes in Laos; launched me to this irresistible dessert.

Its vibrant flavors lingered with me, and I knew I needed to recreate it at residence. I’ve tried variations with and with out pomelo, and whereas each are scrumptious, pomelo really provides that additional spark – texturally and flavor-wise.

That stated, if pomelo is unavailable, the dessert nonetheless shines with simply mango and sago. For finest outcomes, go for candy, non-fibrous mangoes and small tapioca pearls, which mix seamlessly into the dessert’s creamy texture.

This recipe yields 8 servings and is well scalable relying in your gathering measurement. Whether or not for a festive dinner or a weekend indulgence, Mango Sago by no means fails to impress.

Why It’s Referred to as Mango Sago (Even With out Actual Sago)

You could be stunned to know that the majority Mango Sago desserts at present are made with tapioca pearls, not actual sago. True sago, which comes from the sago palm, is kind of uncommon and costly lately.

What’s generally offered as “sago” – particularly in India, Southeast Asia, and even Hong Kong – is definitely small white tapioca pearls created from cassava starch. Since they give the impression of being comparable and are less expensive to provide, tapioca pearls have changed actual sago in on a regular basis cooking.

That’s why regardless that the title has stayed, Mango Sago is now made with tapioca pearls in most locations, and it’s simply as scrumptious.

Step-by-Step Information

Learn how to Make Mango Sago

Prepare dinner Tapioca Pearls (Sago)

First measure ½ cup small tapioca pearls and switch right into a mesh strainer.

2. Rinse the tapioca pearls nicely beneath contemporary water a couple of occasions.

3. In a saucepan, add 5 cups water and the rinsed tapioca pearls.

water and rinsed sago added in a saucepan.

4. Prepare dinner on medium warmth, stirring typically, for 12 to fifteen minutes or till the tapioca pearls are translucent and softened.

Whereas cooking, the sago pearls will soften and are available on prime layer. Because of this the have cooked and have turn into mild.

Tip: Stir typically to make sure the pearls don’t stick on the backside of the pan.

5. Flip off warmth. Drain and rinse beneath water.

6. Soak the cooked and rinsed tapioca pearls in water for 10 minutes.

7. Drain nicely once more and put aside.

Put together Mango Sago

8. Peel and chop 2 medium to massive mangoes. I’ve used Alphonso mangoes right here.

You could get about 2 cups chopped mangoes. In a blender, take the chopped mangoes.

9. Mix right into a tremendous and easy puree.

chopped mango blended into a smooth, fine puree.

10. Add ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk and 1½ cups thick coconut milk.

condensed milk and coconut milk added to mango puree.

11. Mix once more to a easy consistency.

12. Pour in a big mixing bowl.

Add a pinch of salt (non-obligatory). Including salt enhances taste however be at liberty to skip it.

Add chilly water if the combination is just too thick. You possibly can decide so as to add chilly milk as a substitute of water. Combine nicely. Style and modify sweetness, if wanted.

Cowl the bowl with a lid and chill within the fridge.

13. Peel 1 medium pomelo, separate sacs and gently break into juicy threads or small chunks.

Mix & Chill

14. Fold within the cooled tapioca pearls (sago), reserving 3 to 4 tablespoons for garnish.

cooled sago pearls added to mango mixture.

15. At this level, you’ll be able to add ⅔ of the pomelo threads retaining remaining for garnish. Or select to layer the pomelo threads in glasses whereas serving.

adding some pomelo thread to mango mixture.

16. Chill for at the least half-hour to 1 hour for finest taste and texture.

Serving Options

Ladle the Mango Sago (With Pomelo) into serving bowls or glasses. Garnish with mango cubes or melon-scooped balls, together with the reserved pomelo strands and sago pearls.

For an additional contact, you’ll be able to drizzle some coconut cream on prime or add a sprig of contemporary mint.

top shot of mango sago topped with sago, pomelo, mango balls, and a mint leaf.

Storage Options

This dessert is finest loved chilled. Refrigerate for at the least 2 to three hours to let the flavors deepen, however serve it cool – not ice-cold – to take care of the creamy texture of the coconut milk.

It’s very best to eat inside 24 hours. If making ready prematurely, retailer the mango base and toppings like pomelo and mango items individually, and assemble simply earlier than serving for the freshest style and texture.

mango sago topped with sago, pomelo and a mint leaf in two glass cups with stems.

Knowledgeable Suggestions

Mango varieties: For daring, fragrant taste, Indian mangoes like Alphonso or Kesar are glorious. For a Southeast Asian twist, go along with Ataulfo or Champagne mangoes for his or her silky texture and balanced sweetness.
Sago prep tip: After boiling, rinse the tapioca pearls beneath water to cease the cooking course of and forestall sticking. This retains them pleasantly chewy and distinct.
Sweetness management: At all times style the mango purée first – some mangoes are sweeter than others. This manner, you’ll be able to modify the condensed milk accordingly to keep away from overpowering the dessert with sweetness.
Pomelo tip: Select pomelos which are candy with a slight tang – pink-fleshed ones not solely style nice but additionally add a beautiful pop of shade. Keep away from overly bitter varieties.
Lighter choice: For a extra delicate taste, mix 1½ cup of coconut milk with 1 cup of normal or plant-based milk of your selection; including your most well-liked sweetener in accordance with style.
Layered texture: Put aside some mango chunks and pomelo bits for topping moderately than mixing every little thing in. It provides a pleasant distinction in texture and enhances the visible enchantment.
Vegan-friendly swap: To maintain it vegan, go for plant-based condensed milk and skip any dairy-based elements.

FAQs

Which mangoes are perfect for Mango Sago?

Go for ripe, candy mangoes with a easy, non-fibrous texture. Any selection that yields a wealthy, flavorful pulp works nicely. Keep away from stringy sorts, as they will intrude with the silky consistency of the dessert.

Why aren’t my sago pearls absolutely translucent?

If the facilities stay opaque, the pearls probably want extra mild cooking. Excessive warmth can prepare dinner the skin too shortly. Simmer slowly whereas stirring often till most pearls flip translucent. As soon as accomplished, rinse the pearls beneath chilly water to cease the cooking course of which helps them to remain separate.

Can I make Mango Sago with out pomelo?

Completely! Whereas pomelo provides a refreshing citrusy burst, you’ll be able to skip it and nonetheless take pleasure in a wealthy, fruity Mango Sago. The dessert will probably be scrumptious, although barely much less vibrant in texture and distinction.

What’s an excellent various to pomelo?

If pomelo isn’t obtainable, pink or ruby grapefruit makes an excellent substitute. It brings comparable tart and juicy notes, although it might have a barely extra pronounced bitterness.

Is Mango Sago appropriate for vegans?

Sure, it’s simple to make vegan! Swap out common condensed milk with a dairy-free model like sweetened condensed coconut milk or a drizzle of maple syrup. Use full-fat coconut milk to maintain it creamy and indulgent whereas staying plant-based.

Is Mango Sago made with actual sago or tapioca pearls?

Mango Sago is historically named after sago pearls, which had been as soon as created from the pith of the sago palm tree. Nevertheless, in most recipes at present, together with this one, small tapioca pearls are used as a substitute. Tapioca pearls are created from cassava starch and are a lot simpler to seek out, providing the identical chewy texture that makes this dessert so gratifying.

Extra Mango Recipes To Attempt!

Please you should definitely charge the recipe within the recipe card or depart a remark under when you have made it. For extra vegetarian inspirations, Signal Up for my emails or observe me on Instagram, Youtube, Fb, Pinterest or Twitter.

mango sago topped with sago, pomelo, and a mint leaf in a glass cup.

Mango Sago Recipe (With Pomelo)

By Dassana Amit

Mango Sago is a lightweight, creamy dessert made with ripe mangoes, mushy tapioca pearls, coconut milk, condensed milk, and optionally juicy pomelo. Refreshing and candy, it combines fruity flavors with a mushy, chewy texture. Originating in Hong Kong, it’s now standard throughout many elements of Asia. Chilled and served chilly, it’s an ideal deal with for decent summer season days.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Prepare dinner Time 15 minutes

Complete Time 30 minutes

Cooking Tapioca Pearls (Sago)

Prepare dinner ModeForestall your display screen from going darkish whereas making the recipe

Prepare dinner Tapioca Pearls

First measure the small tapioca pearls and switch them to a mesh strainer.
Rinse the pearls nicely beneath contemporary water a couple of occasions.
In a saucepan, add 5 cups of water and the rinsed tapioca pearls.
Prepare dinner on medium warmth stirring typically for 12 to fifteen minutes till translucent with slight white facilities.
Flip off warmth. Drain and rinse beneath chilly water.
Soak in water for 10 minutes.
Drain nicely once more and put aside.

Put together Mango & Pomelo

Peel and chop 2 medium to large-sized mangoes. You could get about 2 cups of chopped mangoes.
In a blender, take the chopped mangoes.
Mix the mangoes right into a tremendous and easy puree.
Add the condensed milk and coconut milk.
Mix once more to a easy consistency.
Pour in a big mixing bowl. Add pinch of salt, (non-obligatory).Including salt enhances taste however be at liberty to skip it.
Add chilly water if the combination is just too thick. Can add chilly milk as a substitute of water. Combine nicely. Style and modify sweetness if wanted.
Cowl bowl with lid and chill within the fridge.
Peel pomelo, separate sacs, and gently break into juicy threads or small chunks.