It’s a tropical paradise on a plate! Imagine succulent pork marinated in zesty ginger and lime, served alongside creamy coconut rice that practically sings to your taste buds. This Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you straight to a sun-soaked beach, minus the sunburn.
Now, if you’re anything like me, you have that one friend who always shows up with takeout when you mention cooking. But fear not! This recipe is so simple that even they might be tempted to don an apron and join the fun. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is bound to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The tangy ginger and lime balance perfectly with tender pork, creating a sensational flavor explosion.
- It pairs beautifully with rich coconut rice, which adds creaminess to each bite.
- The vibrant colors make it visually stunning for any occasion.
- Perfect for meal prep, it stays delicious in the fridge for days!
The last time I whipped up this dish for friends, there was an unexpected competition over who could get the last bite of coconut rice. Spoiler alert: I won because I hid the leftovers!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pork Tenderloin: A lean cut that cooks quickly and stays juicy; aim for about 1 pound for optimal flavor.
Fresh Ginger: Use fresh ginger for its aromatic qualities; it brings warmth and spice to the dish.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice elevates flavor—bottled juice just won’t cut it here.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk offers a rich texture; light options may lack creaminess.
Rice: Jasmine rice is my go-to choice as it adds a fragrant note that complements the pork.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances flavors; chop finely for maximum aroma and taste.
Honey: A touch of honey balances acidity while adding depth; adjust based on your sweet preferences.
For the Marinade:
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to maintain control over salt levels in your dish.
Red Pepper Flakes: Add these for heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by finely chopping garlic and grating fresh ginger—this step fills your kitchen with delightful aromas that hint at what’s coming next.
Create the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, honey, ginger, and garlic until well combined. The mixture should smell tantalizingly fresh—trust me on this one!
Marinate the Pork: Place your pork tenderloin in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour in the marinade, seal or cover tightly, and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight if you’re planning ahead).
Cook the Rice: Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear; then combine with coconut milk and water in a pot. Bring to a boil before reducing heat and simmering until fluffy—about 15-20 minutes should do!
Sear the Pork: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade (reserve leftover marinade) and sear until golden brown on all sides—about 4-5 minutes per side allows those beautiful caramelized bits to form.
Baste and Finish Cooking: Pour reserved marinade over seared pork, cover with a lid, and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F or 63°C). Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.
Enjoying this Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is like taking a mini-vacation without leaving home! Each bite bursts with flavor while transporting you straight into culinary bliss.
Content
Fresh ginger adds zing while lime brightens up the dish; balance is key. Experimenting with different coconut milk brands can enhance creaminess. Avoid overcooking pork; it should remain tender and juicy.
You Must Know
- The aroma of ginger lime pork sizzling on the stove is unforgettable, and the creamy coconut rice complements it perfectly.
- This dish is ideal for impressing guests without fuss.
- Plus, leftovers are a delight for lunch!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the pork until golden brown, then let it rest while you prepare the coconut rice for optimal flavor.
Add Your Touch
Try adding chopped cilantro or a dash of chili flakes to elevate flavor and add a kick to your dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop to retain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your pork is at room temperature before cooking for even doneness.
- For extra flavor, marinate your pork overnight in ginger and lime juice.
- Use fresh lime juice rather than bottled for a brighter taste.
Cooking this dish reminds me of a dinner party where my friends couldn’t stop raving about it, and I felt like a culinary superstar.
FAQ
Can I use chicken instead of pork in this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and will absorb the flavors beautifully.
What if I can’t find fresh ginger?
Ground ginger can substitute, but fresh provides a brighter flavor that enhances the dish.
How do I make coconut rice creamy?
Using full-fat coconut milk instead of light versions boosts creaminess significantly for perfect coconut rice.
Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is a vibrant dish that combines succulent pork marinated in zesty ginger and lime, served with creamy coconut rice. This delightful meal brings the flavors of a tropical paradise right to your table, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With its easy preparation and impressive taste, even your takeout-loving friends might be inspired to join in the fun!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Finely chop garlic and grate fresh ginger.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, honey, ginger, and garlic to create the marinade.
- Place pork in a resealable bag with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until clear. Combine with coconut milk and water in a pot; bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until fluffy.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear marinated pork for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Pour reserved marinade over pork, cover, and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Let rest before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the pork overnight. Experiment with chopped cilantro or chili flakes as toppings. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
