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Sago

Sago is a delightful, jiggly dessert made from tapioca pearls that transforms simple ingredients into pure comfort on a spoon, paired with coconut milk and a touch of sugar.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 cup small tapioca pearls also called sago pearls
  • 4 cups water for boiling
  • 1 can 13.5 oz coconut milk (full-fat works best)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar or white sugar if you prefer
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups water for the syrup
  • 1 pandan leaf optional, for aroma and color

Equipment

  • Large pot (at least 3-quart capacity)
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring
  • Fine mesh strainer or sieve
  • Serving bowls or glasses
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Place your tapioca pearls in a fine mesh strainer and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water for about 30 seconds.
  2. Pour 4 cups of water into your large pot and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
  3. Carefully pour the rinsed tapioca pearls into the boiling water while stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
  4. Keep stirring occasionally as the pearls cook for about 10 to 15 minutes.
  5. Pour the cooked pearls into your strainer and rinse them briefly under cold water.
  6. In the same pot, combine 3 cups of water, brown sugar, salt, and the pandan leaf, then bring to a boil.
  7. Pour your cooked pearls into the hot syrup and stir gently to combine.
  8. Remove the pot from heat and pour in the full can of coconut milk, stirring slowly.

Notes

Serve warm for the best flavor or chill for a refreshing twist. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.