There’s a special warmth that comes from sharing a plate of Xôi Gấc, or Gac Gourd Sticky Rice, especially when the vibrant ruby-red hue catches the light. I first encountered this delightful dish at a festive gathering, where the sweet, earthy aroma filled the air, inviting everyone to the table. This recipe isn’t just about indulgence; it offers a comforting nostalgia, perfect for transforming an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

In my quest to escape the predictable flavors of takeout and fast food, I stumbled upon this gem that’s both easy to prepare and captivating in flavor. Made with glutinous rice and the unique gac gourd, this dish will not only please your palate but also impress your friends and family at any gathering. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special occasion, Xôi Gấc is sure to bring happiness—and many compliments—to your table. Ready to dive in? Let’s create something memorable together!

Why is Xôi Gấc a must-try?

Uniquely Delicious: The vibrant gac gourd infuses this sticky rice with a sweet, earthy flavor that’s unlike anything you’ve had.
Eye-Catching Color: Its stunning ruby hue adds a pop of color to your dining table, making it a feast for the eyes as well.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps, this dish allows you to create gourmet flavors without fuss—perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
Celebratory Vibes: Traditionally served at special occasions, Xôi Gấc is sure to elevate any meal into a festive experience.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this dish will impress and satisfy all your guests’ cravings for something extraordinary.
Give your tastebuds a treat—try making this delightful dish today!

Xôi Gấc Ingredients

Ready to dive into making your own Xôi Gấc? Here’s everything you need to get started!

For the Rice
• 3 cups raw glutinous or sweet rice – This rice gives the dish its signature sticky texture and is essential for authentic Xôi Gấc.

For the Gac Mixture
• 10 to 12 ounces frozen gac gourd or baby jackfruit paste – Look for the version with seeds for added texture and richness in flavor.
• 3 tablespoons rice wine or dry white wine – Adds a subtle depth of flavor that beautifully complements the gac gourd.
• 2 tablespoons canola, vegetable, or avocado oil – Helps incorporate the flavors while keeping the mixture moist and luscious.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt – Enhances the overall taste, balancing the flavors in your treat.
• 1/4 cup full fat unsweetened canned coconut milk – Brings a creamy richness to the sticky rice, making each bite a delight.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar – Sweetens the mixture just right; adjust as needed for your taste preference.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re one step closer to creating an unforgettable dish of Xôi Gấc that will leave everyone craving more!

How to Make Xôi Gấc

Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the raw glutinous rice under cool running water until the water is clear. This step removes excess starch for a perfect sticky texture! Then, soak the rice in water for several hours or overnight to achieve optimal tenderness.
Steam the Rice: After draining the soaked rice, transfer it to a bamboo or metal steamer. Steam it over boiling water for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender, with a fragrant aroma.
Prepare the Gac Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the gac gourd or baby jackfruit paste with the rice wine, canola oil, kosher salt, coconut milk, and granulated sugar. Aim for a smooth and creamy consistency that’s bursting with flavor!
Combine the Ingredients: Once your rice has finished steaming, gently fold it into the gac mixture. Stir until everything is well combined, ensuring the rice absorbs the vibrant flavors and beautiful color.
Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the warm Xôi Gấc onto plates, and for extra sweetness, feel free to adjust with more sugar as needed. Dig in and savor every delightful bite!

Optional: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for added texture and nuttiness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Xôi Gấc?

Enhancing your meal starts with a symphony of flavors that complement this delightful sticky rice.

Grilled Lemongrass Chicken: The smoky, aromatic flavors of grilled chicken infused with lemongrass create a fragrant balance that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of Xôi Gấc.
Stir-Fried Greens: Fresh stir-fried greens like bok choy or pak choi add a crisp texture and a touch of umami, making each bite of rice more vibrant and refreshing.
Pickled Vegetables: A side of tangy pickled vegetables brings a zesty crunch that cuts through the richness of the sticky rice, making for a well-rounded meal.
Coconut Curry: A mildly spiced coconut curry complements the creamy coconut taste in Xôi Gấc, bringing harmony to your plate with warmth and satisfaction.
Tofu Satay Skewers: Char-grilled tofu skewers with a hint of spice not only cater to plant-based eaters but also add a lovely texture that contrasts nicely with the tender rice.

Pairing Xôi Gấc with these options transforms your meal into a festivity of flavors. Each dish thoughtfully enhances the experience, ensuring every bite is delightful!

Tips for the Best Xôi Gấc

Moisture Matters: Ensure the rice is soaked well; otherwise, the texture might turn out too dry. Aim for at least 4 hours or overnight soaking for lovely sticky rice.
Steaming Perfection: Use a bamboo steamer for optimal results, as it allows steam to circulate evenly, ensuring even cooking of the glutinous rice.
Flavor Balance: When mixing the gac gourd paste, taste and adjust the sweetness with sugar. Sometimes, a little more sugar can elevate your Xôi Gấc beautifully!
Garnish Wisely: Consider adding toasted sesame seeds as a garnish—they add a lovely crunch and enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.
Don’t Rush: Take your time when folding the rice into the gac mixture. Gentle mixing will help maintain the rice’s integrity while allowing the vibrant Xôi Gấc flavor to permeate through.

Xôi Gấc Variations

Feel free to let your creativity run wild in the kitchen with these delightful twists on Xôi Gấc, bringing new flavors to your table!

Coconut Variation: Add a splash of coconut extract for an extra layer of tropical flavor that complements the coconut milk.
This little boost will bring a fragrant aroma that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds!
Savory Twist: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or diced vegetables for a savory version that balances the sweetness.
The earthy flavors will surprise and delight your taste buds, making Xôi Gấc a versatile dish.
Nutty Infusion: Stir in toasted peanuts or cashews into the mixture for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the rice.
They not only add crunch but also protein, making your dish a fuller experience.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili powder or some finely chopped fresh chilis to give your Xôi Gấc some heat.
This spicy variation offers a thrilling balance to the natural sweetness, raising the flavor game entirely.
Fruitful Addition: Incorporate diced mango or jackfruit for a fruity layer that enhances the overall sweetness of the dish.
Their juicy texture and bright flavor create a joyful surprise in each bite, especially for fruit lovers!
Vegan Swap: Substitute coconut milk with almond or cashew milk for a lighter, dairy-free alternative.
This version still boasts creaminess while catering perfectly to vegan diets without sacrificing taste.
Herbal Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like mint or basil for an unexpectedly refreshing twist.
This uplifting herbal background will create a harmony between sweet and aromatic, making your dish feel even lighter and more vibrant.
Berry Bliss: Top your Xôi Gấc with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries to add a tart freshness.
The colorful medley is not only visually striking—it creates an inviting contrast to the sweet, sticky rice!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Xôi Gấc in advance is a fantastic way to save time and streamline your meal planning! You can soak the glutinous rice up to 24 hours ahead, ensuring it’s ready to steam on the day you plan to serve it. Additionally, the gac gourd or baby jackfruit paste mixture can be made up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor and freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your delightful sticky rice, simply steam the soaked rice, combine it with the gac mixture, and serve warm. This way, you can savor restaurant-quality Xôi Gấc without the last-minute rush, making it perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike!

How to Store and Freeze Xôi Gấc

Fridge: Store the cooked Xôi Gấc in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent moisture build-up.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Xôi Gấc in individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then steam or microwave until heated through. You can add a little coconut milk to revive moisture and richness.

Quality Check: While Xôi Gấc is best enjoyed fresh, proper storage will keep it delicious for later—a comforting treat that recalls its original flavors.

Xôi Gấc Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select gac gourd or baby jackfruit?
Absolutely! When looking for gac gourd or baby jackfruit, choose frozen varieties that retain their nutrients and flavor. If possible, opt for the paste containing seeds—this adds an extra layer of texture and richness. Always check for bright color and avoid any packaging that appears damaged or has an unusual odor.

How should I store leftover Xôi Gấc?
To store your delicious Xôi Gấc, simply place it in an airtight container once it’s completely cooled—this will prevent the moisture buildup that can alter its texture. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, make sure to refrigerate it promptly to maintain its freshness.

Can I freeze Xôi Gấc? If so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze Xôi Gấc! To do this, portion it into individual servings and wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the desired portion in the fridge overnight, then steam or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of coconut milk for that fresh taste!

What should I do if my Xôi Gấc turns out dry?
Very good question! If you find that your Xôi Gấc is dry, it’s likely that the rice was not soaked adequately or that it was overcooked. To fix this, consider adding a little more coconut milk or even water when reheating to help revive moisture. If you want to be proactive, be sure to soak your rice for at least 4 hours or overnight—this will help achieve that wonderfully sticky texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for Xôi Gấc?
Yes! If you’re preparing Xôi Gấc for someone with dietary restrictions, it’s essential to check if they have any allergies to ingredients such as coconut or rice. Additionally, since this dish is purely plant-based, it can be suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Just ensure that the rice wine used is also alcohol-free if needed for certain diets.

Can I make Xôi Gấc without gac gourd?
If gac gourd is unavailable, you can substitute it with ripe jackfruit or pumpkin puree for a different but delightful twist! The texture will change slightly, but both alternatives still provide that lovely sweetness. To create a similar look, you might consider adding a touch of red food coloring to mimic the iconic hue of Xôi Gấc.