Imagine unearthing a dish that dances on your taste buds, where the zing of ginger meets the refreshing pop of lime, all wrapped in the warm embrace of tender pork. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wondering if you’ve secretly enrolled in culinary school. Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you straight to a tropical paradise.
You might find yourself reminiscing about beach vacations or backyard barbecues as this vibrant dish sizzles away on your stovetop. Picture this: juicy pork marinated in a zesty ginger-lime concoction, complemented by fluffy coconut rice that feels like a warm hug for your palate. It’s perfect for those casual weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The lively flavors create a vibrant dish that looks as good as it tastes.
- The combination of spices and fresh ingredients makes it versatile and easy to customize to your liking.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that your family and friends will rave about long after dinner is over.
Last summer, I cooked this dish for my family reunion, and let me tell you, the compliments poured in faster than the tropical drinks! One cousin even asked if I had taken culinary classes – little did they know my secret was just following this fabulous recipe!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pork Tenderloin: Choose a lean cut for tenderness; it’s perfect for marinating and grilling.
Fresh Ginger: Use aromatic, firm ginger root to give the dish its signature zing.
Limes: Freshly squeezed lime juice enhances flavor; avoid bottled versions for best results.
Coconut Milk: Opt for full-fat coconut milk for creamy rice with rich flavor.
Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice pairs perfectly with coconut milk’s sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth; don’t skimp on this flavor powerhouse.
Honey: A touch of honey balances the acidity from the lime beautifully.
Soy Sauce: Enhance umami flavors; low-sodium soy sauce is preferable for better control over salt levels.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add color and freshness as a garnish.
Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro brightens the dish with its unique herbal notes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
Start by preparing the marinade: In a bowl, combine grated ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, and lime juice. Whisk until well mixed and fragrant.
Marinate the pork: Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pouring half of the marinade over it. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Cook the rice: Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine rinsed rice and coconut milk with equal parts water; bring to a boil.
Sauté the pork: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade (discard excess) and sear until golden brown on all sides—about 3-4 minutes per side—until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Finish cooking the rice: Reduce heat to low once boiling; cover and simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed—about 15-20 minutes. Fluff lightly with a fork before serving.
Serve it up: Slice pork into medallions, arrange over coconut rice, drizzle remaining marinade on top, and garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro if desired.
Now you have a plate full of joy! Serve this Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice at your next gathering or cozy dinner at home – either way, be ready for compliments galore!
Content
Ginger adds a warm zing, while lime brightens up the dish. Balance is key for flavor! I learned to always taste as you go; it transforms the dish beautifully.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by marinating the pork in ginger and lime, then cook the rice while searing the pork. This keeps everything flowing smoothly and ensures each component is perfectly done.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out coconut rice for jasmine if you prefer. Throw in some veggies or nuts for added texture and color, making it truly yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ginger for a more vibrant flavor that dried spices can’t match.
- Always ensure your pork is at room temperature before cooking for even results.
- Letting your dish rest after cooking enhances flavors and textures beautifully.
Sharing this recipe brings back fond memories of summer barbecues with friends where laughter filled the air, and everyone praised my culinary skills over plates of this delightful dish.
FAQ
Can I use chicken instead of pork in Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice?
Yes, chicken works wonderfully and absorbs flavors just as well as pork.
How do I know when my pork is cooked properly?
Use a meat thermometer; aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender meat every time.
What should I serve alongside Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice?
A fresh salad or grilled vegetables complement the flavors beautifully and add crunch.
Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is a vibrant dish that harmoniously combines the zesty flavors of ginger and lime with tender pork, all served over creamy coconut rice. This delightful recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. With its tropical flair and quick preparation, it promises to transport your taste buds to paradise while being easy enough for any home cook.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing/Simmering
- Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Juice of 2 limes (about ¼ cup)
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat)
- 1 cup water
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together ginger, garlic, soy sauce, honey, and lime juice to create the marinade.
- Place pork in a resealable bag or dish, pour half of the marinade over it, seal tightly, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
- Rinse jasmine rice until water runs clear. Combine rinsed rice, coconut milk, and water in a saucepan; bring to a boil.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade (discard excess) and sear until golden brown on all sides and cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low for rice; cover and simmer until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender (15-20 minutes). Fluff with a fork.
- Slice pork into medallions and serve over coconut rice. Drizzle with remaining marinade and garnish with green onions and cilantro if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added texture, consider adding sautéed vegetables or nuts. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
