Growing up in a diverse family, Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice was a dish that always brought us together. I can still remember the aroma of the fragrant ginger and zesty lime wafting through the kitchen as my grandma prepared this beloved recipe. It was a true taste of her Southeast Asian heritage, but with a bright, tropical twist that we all adored.
Whenever Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice was on the menu, it was like a special occasion. We’d gather around the table, eagerly awaiting the first bite of that tender, flavorful pork and the fluffy, coconut-infused rice. It wasn’t just a meal – it was a celebration of our family’s rich cultural tapestry and the comfort of coming home.
Table of Contents
Why This Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
What makes this Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice recipe so unique is the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. The key is in the marinade – a fragrant blend of fresh ginger, tangy lime juice, and a touch of brown sugar that infuses the pork with unbelievable depth of flavor. And the coconut rice? It’s the ideal accompaniment, with its creamy texture and subtle sweetness that complements the pork beautifully.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pork tenderloin: The star of the dish, pork tenderloin is lean, tender, and cooks up quickly.
- Fresh ginger: Grated or minced, ginger lends its warm, slightly spicy flavor to the marinade.
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed for maximum brightness and acidity.
- Brown sugar: Just a touch balances the tartness of the lime and brings out the natural sweetness.
- Coconut milk: The secret to perfectly fluffy, flavorful coconut rice.
- Jasmine rice: Long-grain jasmine rice is the ideal base for the coconut milk.
- Scallions and cilantro: Fresh, fragrant garnishes that add the final touch of flavor and color.
Step-by-Step Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Instructions
Preparing Your Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
This Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice comes together quickly, making it the perfect weeknight meal. With just a few simple steps, you can have this tropical-inspired dish on the table in under an hour. Let’s get started!
1- Begin by preparing the marinade. In a shallow bowl or resealable bag, combine the grated ginger, lime juice, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the pork tenderloin, turning to coat it evenly. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
2- While the pork is marinating, make the coconut rice. In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk and jasmine rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
3- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Remove the pork from the marinade and discard any remaining liquid. Place the pork on a baking sheet and roast for 18-22 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
4- Let the pork rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into medallions. The center should be slightly pink and very juicy.
5- Fluff the coconut rice with a fork and stir in the sliced scallions.
6- Serve the Ginger Lime Pork immediately, nestled on a bed of the fragrant coconut rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips:
- Marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 4 hours, to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Be sure to use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pork – aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for juicy, tender results.
- Fluff the coconut rice with a fork to prevent it from becoming gummy or clumped together.
Serving and Storing Your Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
Perfect Pairings for Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is a wonderfully versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages. Try serving it with a fresh, tropical salad, steamed or sautéed vegetables, or a crisp, citrusy white wine. It’s also delicious alongside grilled pineapple or a tangy mango salsa.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftovers of this Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the pork and rice in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the marinade and rice up to 2 days in advance. Store the marinated pork and cooked rice separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and bake.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
Creative Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Variations
Looking to mix things up? Try using this Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice recipe as a base for all sorts of delicious variations. Swap in chicken or shrimp for the pork, or experiment with different tropical fruits like mango or pineapple in the marinade. You can also play with the spice level by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
Making Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Diet-Friendly
To make this Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice recipe more diet-friendly, you can use low-fat coconut milk or swap in cauliflower rice for the traditional jasmine variety. For a gluten-free version, simply use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce in the marinade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of meat besides pork tenderloin?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with chicken breasts or thighs, or even shrimp. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How can I tell when the pork is fully cooked?
A: The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a digital meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Q: How long will the leftover Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice keep?
A: Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the pork and rice will keep for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make the coconut rice ahead of time?
A: Yes! The coconut rice can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: What should I do if the coconut rice turns out too dry?
A: If the coconut rice seems a bit dry, simply stir in a splash of coconut milk or water until it reaches the desired creamy texture.
Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice recipe is a quick and flavor-packed Asian-inspired meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The tender pork is infused with the bright, tangy flavors of ginger and lime, while the creamy coconut rice provides a delightful base.
Ingredients
– 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
– 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 tsp salt
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
1. 1. In a bowl, combine the pork, ginger, lime juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Toss to coat the pork and let marinate for 15 minutes.
2. 2. In a medium saucepan, combine the jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until rice is tender.
3. 3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pork is cooked through.
4. 4. Fluff the coconut rice with a fork and serve the ginger lime pork over the rice. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Notes
For a spicier version, you can add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sliced Thai chili peppers to the pork marinade. The coconut rice can also be made in an Instant Pot or rice cooker for convenience.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Conclusion
Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is a true taste of the tropics, and this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. With its vibrant flavors, tender pork, and fluffy coconut rice, it’s a complete meal that’s sure to transport you to a beachside oasis. So go ahead and give this delicious dish a try – I promise it won’t disappoint!
