Strawberry Sago

Strawberry Sago is a refreshing, creamy dessert that brings together the fruity sweetness of strawberries with the chewy texture of tapioca pearls. Infused with coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk, this chilled treat is perfect for warm days and makes an excellent finale to any meal. Popular in Southeast Asian cuisine, it’s an easy-to-make dish that both kids and adults enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and basic ingredients, this dessert comes together quickly.

• Deliciously Creamy and Fruity: The combination of coconut milk and strawberries offers a rich, smooth, and refreshing flavor.

• Customizable: You can tweak it to your liking with different fruits or toppings.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it at family dinners, parties, or as a simple weeknight dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and diced

• ¾ cup small tapioca pearls

• 1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk

• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk

• 1 cup coconut jellies (nata de coco), drained

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Tapioca Pearls: In a medium pot, bring 5 cups of water to a boil. Add the tapioca pearls, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for another 10–15 minutes until translucent. Rinse under cold water and drain well.

2. Blend the Strawberries: In a blender, combine half of the diced strawberries with the sweetened condensed milk. Blend until smooth.

3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked tapioca, strawberry puree, the remaining diced strawberries, coconut milk, and coconut jellies. Mix thoroughly.

4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Serve cold, optionally garnished with sliced strawberries or mint leaves.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 4

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Chilling Time: 2 hours

Variations

• Use Other Fruits: Swap strawberries for mango, lychee, or a mix of tropical fruits.

• Make It Dairy-Free: Replace the sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk or a plant-based alternative.

• Add Crunch or Texture: Add mini tapioca, chia seeds, or basil seeds for extra texture.

• Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of condensed milk based on your taste preference.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tapioca may absorb more liquid over time; stir in a bit of extra coconut milk before serving to loosen the consistency. This dessert is best served chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

What is sago?

Sago refers to small starch pearls, often made from cassava or palm starch, and are similar to tapioca pearls. They become translucent and chewy when cooked.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw the frozen strawberries completely and drain any excess liquid before blending or chopping.

Is it necessary to rinse the cooked tapioca?

Yes, rinsing removes excess starch and prevents the pearls from sticking together.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely. It’s best when chilled, so making it a few hours or even a day in advance works perfectly.

Can I use evaporated milk instead of coconut milk?

You can, but it will change the flavor profile. Coconut milk gives the dessert its signature taste.

Why are my tapioca pearls hard in the center?

They likely need more soaking or cooking time. Let them sit covered in hot water until fully translucent.

Can I add sugar instead of condensed milk?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the amount to taste and ensure it dissolves completely in the liquid.

What other toppings go well with this dessert?

Toasted coconut flakes, chopped nuts, or fresh mint leaves make great additions.

Can I serve this warm?

It is traditionally served cold, but it can be eaten warm if preferred, although the flavor may differ.

How do I prevent the dessert from thickening too much?

If it thickens in the fridge, simply stir in a bit more coconut milk before serving to restore the creamy consistency.

Conclusion

Strawberry Sago is a luscious, easy-to-make dessert that combines tropical flavors with a delightful texture. Whether you’re looking for a cool summer treat or a unique finish to your meal, this dish delivers with its vibrant taste and visual appeal. Try it once, and it may just become a favorite in your dessert rotation.