If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant, zesty flavors and comforting creamy textures, the Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish marries tender pork pieces marinated in fresh ginger and lime juice with the silky richness of coconut-infused jasmine rice, creating a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that will have you coming back for seconds. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding depth to the marinade, creating the creamy rice base, or garnishing the dish with fresh brightness.
- Pork tenderloin (1 pound): Choose a lean cut that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Fresh ginger (2 tablespoons, minced): Gives a warm, peppery zing that defines the marinade.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds a pungent, savory depth to balance the citrus.
- Limes (zest and juice of 2): Injects vibrant acidity and freshness.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings umami richness and saltiness to the pork.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Offers a subtle sweetness that mellows the tart lime.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): For searing the pork to a perfect crust.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor.
- Jasmine rice (1 cup): Aromatic grain that pairs beautifully with coconut milk.
- Coconut milk (1 cup): Creates the rich, creamy rice base with an exotic touch.
- Water (1 cup): Balances the coconut milk for perfect rice texture.
- Salt for rice (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to round out the flavors in the rice.
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and herbal brightness.
- Lime wedges (for serving): Perfect for squeezing over the final dish for an extra burst of citrus.
How to Make Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by blending the minced ginger, garlic, lime zest, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This marinade is the soul of the Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Recipe, infusing the pork with bright and balanced flavors that truly make the dish sing. Mix everything thoroughly so every pork piece gets an even coating of these vibrant ingredients.
Step 2: Marinate the Pork
Next, add the pork pieces to your marinade bowl and toss until they are completely covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours amplifies the flavors for an even more delicious result. This step is key to tender and flavorful pork.
Step 3: Rinse the Jasmine Rice
While the pork takes its flavorful bath, rinse your jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear. This simple step removes excess starch, guaranteeing that the rice will be fluffy and light once cooked—incredible alongside the creamy coconut base.
Step 4: Cook the Coconut Rice
Combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Then, remove the pan from heat, keeping the lid on for 5 more minutes to finish the steaming process.
Step 5: Sear the Pork
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork in a single layer to achieve a beautiful sear. Let the pieces cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes, which will help develop a caramelized crust that locks in juiciness. Then, stir and continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until the pork is cooked through and tender, with an internal temperature of 145°F.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Fluff your coconut rice with a fork, then plate it with a generous scoop topped by the ginger lime pork. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve lime wedges on the side for a bright finish. The presentation is as inviting as the flavors—bright, fresh, and comforting.
How to Serve Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro brings an herbal lift that complements the tangy pork and creamy coconut rice perfectly. Lime wedges on the side allow everyone to jazz up their dish with an extra citrus splash, which brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish beautifully stands on its own, but if you want to add some sides, try a crisp cucumber salad or steamed green beans with a touch of garlic. These keep the meal light and refreshing while adding a nice textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pork and coconut rice in lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld experience. Alternatively, layer the pork over the rice in a shallow bowl and drizzle with a little extra soy or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an extra flavor dimension that delights the eye as much as the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover pork and rice in airtight containers and refrigerate. They will stay flavorful and safe to eat for up to 3 days, making this dish a perfect next-day lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the pork and rice separately in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Freezing preserves the wonderful flavors while making future meals convenient and quick to reheat.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the rice and pork in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of water or coconut milk to the rice to maintain its creaminess and prevent it from drying out. This way, the Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Recipe comes back to life almost as good as fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and quick cooking time, you can also use pork shoulder or even boneless pork chops if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure tenderness.
Is jasmine rice necessary for this recipe?
Jasmine rice has a lovely fragrance and texture that pairs well with coconut milk, but you can substitute basmati or long-grain rice if that’s what you have on hand. Just note the cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap the pork with tofu or tempeh and make sure to use a vegan soy sauce if needed. The marinade and coconut rice remain deliciously effective at delivering flavor without the meat.
How long should I marinate the pork?
At minimum 30 minutes allows the flavors to develop well, but marinating up to 2 hours will deepen the taste even more. Avoid marinating too long as the lime juice can start to ‘cook’ or toughen the meat.
What is the best way to reheat the coconut rice?
Reheat gently with a little water or extra coconut milk in the microwave or on the stovetop to keep the rice creamy and prevent it from drying out or becoming clumpy.
Final Thoughts
The Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Recipe is one of those magic meals that feels both special and easy at the same time. Its vibrant flavors and comforting textures make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly hope you make this soon and enjoy every juicy, tangy, and creamy bite as much as I do!
Print
Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender pork marinated in zesty lime and fresh ginger, pan-seared to perfection and served over fragrant coconut-infused jasmine rice. This recipe blends sweet, tangy, and aromatic elements for a delightful, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Pork Marinade
- 1 pound pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Coconut Rice
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine minced ginger, minced garlic, lime zest, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade for the pork.
- Marinate the Pork: Add the pork pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, to enhance the flavors.
- Rinse the Rice: While the pork marinates, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and promote fluffier rice.
- Cook the Coconut Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Stir then bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for about 15 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Rest the Rice: Remove the rice from heat and keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes to finish steaming and ensure perfect texture.
- Cook the Pork: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated pork in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a sear.
- Finish Cooking Pork: Stir the pork and continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until pork is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve: Fluff the coconut rice with a fork. Plate the rice topped with the ginger lime pork, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges on the side for squeezing.
Notes
- Marinate the pork longer (up to 2 hours) for more intense flavor.
- Use jasmine rice for its aromatic qualities, but basmati can be substituted if preferred.
- Ensure pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
- Rinsing rice removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added freshness and brightness.
