If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that bursts with vibrant flavors and a comforting texture, then the Strawberry Sago with Coconut Milk and Fresh Strawberries Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish brings together the subtle chewiness of tapioca pearls, the creaminess of coconut milk, and the fresh, juicy sweetness of strawberries in a harmonious dance of flavors. It’s refreshingly light yet satisfyingly rich, making it perfect for any occasion whether as a simple family treat or a charming finale to your dinner party. I promise, once you make this, it will quickly become one of your favorite tropical-inspired desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a balanced, delicious dessert. Every component is straightforward but essential, from the rich coconut milk that brings creaminess to the fresh strawberries that add natural sweetness and a pop of color, to the chewy tapioca pearls that offer a unique texture.
- ½ cup small tapioca pearls: These give the dish its signature chewy texture, so don’t skip them!
- 3 cups chopped strawberries: Freshness is key here; they add a lovely fruity burst and beautiful hue.
- 1 cup coconut milk (any type): Creamy and subtly sweet, this forms the luscious base of the dessert.
- 1 cup milk: Balances the coconut milk and adds a smooth richness.
- 1 tablespoon strawberry jam: Intensifies the strawberry flavor with a concentrated sweetness.
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk: Adds a lovely creamy sweetness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 jar coconut jellies (nata de coco): Adds a wonderful chewy contrast and an extra tropical touch.
How to Make Strawberry Sago with Coconut Milk and Fresh Strawberries Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tapioca Pearls
Begin by boiling a medium pot of water and adding the small tapioca pearls. Reduce the heat to a gentle boil and let them cook for 25 to 30 minutes until they turn fully translucent. Keep an eye on them—if you still see white centers, just keep cooking a bit longer, adding water if needed. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect chewy texture that’s neither too hard nor mushy.
Step 2: Rinse and Drain the Pearls
Once the pearls are translucent, rinse them under cold water to cool and stop the cooking process. Drain well, then transfer them to a large bowl where they’ll mingle with the rest of the delicious ingredients.
Step 3: Blend the Creamy Strawberry Base
In a blender, combine half of the chopped strawberries, the coconut milk, regular milk, and strawberry jam. Blend everything until it’s irresistibly smooth. Pour this luscious mixture into the bowl with the tapioca pearls, giving it a gentle stir to combine the creamy base with the chewy pearls perfectly.
Step 4: Add the Toppings and Sweetener
Finally, fold in the remaining chopped strawberries, sweetened condensed milk, and the jar of coconut jellies. These additions enhance texture and heighten the dessert’s sweetness, making every bite exciting. You can enjoy this right away or chill it for an hour to let the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Strawberry Sago with Coconut Milk and Fresh Strawberries Recipe
Garnishes
Add a pop of color and a refreshing twist with a sprig of fresh mint or a few extra sliced strawberries on top before serving. A light dusting of toasted coconut flakes also adds a delightful crunch that pairs well with the creamy texture of the dessert.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with light, savory snacks like crispy spring rolls or mild-flavored seafood dishes, balancing both sweet and savory notes on the palate. It also complements a tropical-themed meal, rounding out the fresh, vibrant dining experience perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and festive presentation, serve the Strawberry Sago with Coconut Milk and Fresh Strawberries Recipe in individual glass jars, layering the pearls and cream mixture for a pretty effect. You could also try it scooped into hollowed-out strawberries or coconut shells to amp up the tropical vibe and make it even more Instagram-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Since the tapioca can absorb liquid over time, the texture may become softer, but the flavor remains delightful for up to two days.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this dessert because tapioca pearls can become hard and lose their chewy texture upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or chilled.
Reheating
If you want to serve this dessert slightly warm, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat while stirring frequently to prevent sticking or clumping. Otherwise, it’s perfectly enjoyable cold straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use different types of milk in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap in almond milk, soy milk, or any preferred milk alternative to suit dietary needs or preferences. Just remember that coconut milk gives the dessert its signature richness.
Where can I find small tapioca pearls?
Look in Asian grocery stores or the international aisle of well-stocked supermarkets. They are usually labeled as “small tapioca pearls” or “sago.”
How do I know when the tapioca pearls are fully cooked?
They should be completely translucent with no white centers. The pearls will have a pleasantly chewy texture without being chalky or hard.
Can I substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones?
While fresh strawberries deliver the best flavor and texture, frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch. Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid watering down the dessert.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make it vegan, use coconut milk and plant-based milk alternatives, and replace the sweetened condensed milk with a vegan version or sweeten with maple syrup. Check your coconut jellies to ensure they’re vegan-friendly as well.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Sago with Coconut Milk and Fresh Strawberries Recipe is pure joy in a bowl—refreshing, creamy, and wonderfully balanced. It’s one of those dishes you’ll want to keep in your culinary repertoire for any time you need a simple yet stunning dessert. Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll fall in love just like I did!
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Strawberry Sago with Coconut Milk and Fresh Strawberries Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
Description
Strawberry Sago is a refreshing and creamy dessert featuring chewy tapioca pearls soaked in a luscious mixture of coconut milk, milk, and strawberry flavors, combined with fresh strawberries and coconut jellies for a delightful tropical treat perfect for warm days.
Ingredients
Tapioca Pearls
- ½ cup small tapioca pearls
Fruit and Dairy
- 3 cups chopped strawberries
- 1 cup coconut milk (any type)
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
Flavorings and Other
- 1 tablespoon strawberry jam
- 1 jar coconut jellies (nata de coco)
Instructions
- Cook Tapioca Pearls: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add the tapioca pearls and reduce to a gentle boil. Cook for 25-30 minutes until the pearls become fully translucent; if they still show a white center, continue cooking a few more minutes, adding more water if necessary.
- Rinse and Drain: Rinse the cooked tapioca pearls under cold water to stop the cooking process, then drain thoroughly and transfer them to a large bowl.
- Blend Strawberry Mixture: In a blender, combine half of the chopped strawberries, coconut milk, regular milk, and strawberry jam. Blend until smooth, then pour this mixture into the bowl with the tapioca pearls.
- Combine and Serve: Stir in the remaining chopped strawberries, sweetened condensed milk, and coconut jellies. You can enjoy the dessert immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for an hour before serving for a cooler, more refreshing experience.
Notes
- For best texture, ensure tapioca pearls are fully translucent with no white center before rinsing.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of strawberry jam and sweetened condensed milk.
- Chilling the dessert enhances the flavors and provides a refreshing treat.
- Nata de coco (coconut jellies) adds a chewy texture but can be substituted with other jelly or fruit pieces if desired.
