Thai Mango Smoothie with Basil Seeds

Name: Thai Mango Smoothie with Basil Seeds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: thai
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Thai basil seeds (or chia seeds), soaked; 2 cups ripe mango, peeled and cubed (about 10–12 oz mango meat); 1 1/4 cup oat milk (or any milk of choice- coconut milk is particularly Thai, and use full-fat for creamy texture, or light if preferred); 1 1/2 tablespoons honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup (adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 small handful Thai basil leaves (or substitute fresh mint); Pinch of sea salt; 1/2 cup crushed ice (more for a thicker smoothie); Optional: 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger or galangal; Garnish: extra soaked basil seeds, Thai basil or mint leaves, toasted coconut flakes

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If you love tropical drinks with a refreshing twist, you’ll want to try this Thai mango smoothie with basil seeds. It’s creamy, naturally dairy-free, and bursting with sweet mango flavor.

Craving more fruity and refreshing sips or treats? Don’t miss these fan favorites: mango popsicles, strawberry boba, creamy mango ice cream, bold durian ice cream, Thai pink milk drink, Thai green tea, and the classic Thai iced tea.

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Ingredients
Instructions
Types of Mangoes to Use for Smoothies
What Are Thai Basil Seeds?
Can I Add Protein Powder or Other Boosters?
Storing Leftovers
Equipment
Helpful Kitchen Tips for the Best Thai Mango Smoothie
Frequently Asked Questions
Thai Mango Smoothie with Basil Seeds
More Thai Recipes
Hi there, I’m Suwanee!

Ingredients

I use Champagne mangoes for the smoothest texture, coconut milk for richness, and Thai-inspired ingredients like Thai basil seeds and fresh herbs to give this smoothie a fun, authentic touch. Perfect for hot days, breakfast, or a healthy snack, this Thai-style smoothie comes together in just minutes!

Ripe mango – naturally sweet, juicy, and tropical, forming the creamy, fruity base.
Oat milk (or milk of choice) – creamy and smooth; coconut milk adds authentic Thai richness, full-fat for extra creaminess or lighter for fewer calories.
Crushed ice – keeps your smoothie chilled; use more ice for a thicker consistency.
Agave syrup (or sweetener of choice) – adds a gentle sweetness. Adjust amount according to your taste.
Lime juice – brightens and balances the sweetness, giving a refreshing tang.
Thai basil leaves (or fresh mint) – provides a fresh herbal kick with authentic Thai aroma; mint is a refreshing alternative.
Sea salt – just a tiny pinch enhances the sweetness of mango and balances flavors.
Thai basil seeds (or chia seeds) – adds a delightful jelly-like texture; soak before use.
Ginger or galangal (optional) – a subtle warmth and spice, giving an extra authentic Thai touch.
Garnish – soaked basil seeds, fresh Thai basil or mint leaves, and toasted coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture.

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Soak the Thai basil seeds in ¼ cup of water for about 5 minutes until they puff up with a jelly-like coating.

Step 2: In a blender, combine mango, oat milk, ice, honey, lime juice, Thai basil, salt, and half of the soaked basil seeds. Blend until smooth and creamy. If using other herbs like mint, ginger, or galangal, add them here.

Mango chunks, basil and milk in a food processor for mango smoothie.

Mango smoothie puree in a food processor.

Gently stir in the rest of the soaked basil seeds. Avoid blending them at this point to keep the fun texture. Pour into glasses, garnish, and enjoy!

Two glasses of mango smoothie with basil seeds and basil on top as garnish.

Overhead shots of two glasses of mango smoothie with basil seeds on top as garnish.

Types of Mangoes to Use for Smoothies

The best mango for smoothies is one that's sweet, creamy, and low in fibers. I love using Champagne mangoes (Ataulfo mangoes)—they’re rich, silky, and naturally sweet, making your smoothie extra smooth.

You can also use Kent or Keitt mangoes, which are larger and less stringy. Frozen mango chunks work great too, especially if you're making this smoothie on the go.

What Are Thai Basil Seeds?

Thai basil seeds on a plate with a wooden spoon in the middle.

Thai basil seeds are tiny black seeds that puff up and develop a jelly-like coating when soaked in water—similar to chia seeds, but they’re a classic ingredient in Thai street drinks and desserts.

They add a fun texture, cooling effect, and extra fiber to your smoothie. If you can’t find them, chia seeds make an easy substitute.

Can I Add Protein Powder or Other Boosters?

Yes! To make this smoothie more filling or post-workout friendly, add a scoop of vanilla protein powder or unflavored collagen. It pairs perfectly with mango and coconut milk. You can also swap the honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup for monk fruit sugar if you want a lower-carb, naturally sweetened version.

Storing Leftovers

This Thai-inspired mango smoothie is best enjoyed fresh for the creamiest texture. If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 4 hours. Give it a good stir before drinking, as the Thai basil seeds will settle at the bottom. The smoothie may thicken as it sits due to the seeds and coconut milk.

Equipment

Blender or food processor – For ultra-smooth durian texture if you don’t want any chunks.

Two glasses of mango smoothie on a table with white background.

Helpful Kitchen Tips for the Best Thai Mango Smoothie

Soak basil seeds first – They puff up in 5 minutes and give that signature jelly-like texture.
Use ripe mangoes – Champagne or Ataulfo mangoes are sweet, creamy, and low in fibers.
Chill your ingredients – Cold mango, milk, and even your blender = extra refreshing.
Don’t blend the basil seeds – Stir them in after blending to keep their fun texture.
Taste and tweak – Adjust sweetness, lime, or milk based on your mango's ripeness.
Add boosters – Protein powder or collagen makes it more filling and nourishing.
Frozen mango works too – Great for thick, frosty smoothies in a pinch.
Make it street-style – Top with soaked basil seeds, toasted coconut, and a fun straw!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 4 hours. Give it a good stir before serving, as basil seeds and coconut milk may settle or thicken.

What does Thai basil taste like?

Thai basil has a slightly spicy, anise-like flavor with hints of licorice—stronger and more fragrant than Italian basil. It adds depth and an herbal twist to this tropical smoothie.

Is this smoothie kid-friendly?

Absolutely! It’s naturally sweet, creamy, and fun with basil seeds. You can skip the ginger or galangal for younger taste buds.

Can I make it without basil seeds?

Yes! The smoothie is still delicious without them. You can skip them entirely or use chia seeds if you want a similar texture.

Can I turn this into a smoothie bowl?

Totally! Use less milk and more frozen mango to thicken it up, then top with granola, fruit, coconut flakes, and extra basil seeds for a fun twist.

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