Name: Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice for a Flavorful Escape
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Pork Tenderloin (or substitute ground pork); 2 tablespoons Fresh Ginger (grated); 3 tablespoons Lime Juice (or lemon juice); 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar (or honey/maple syrup); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Sriracha (adjust to spice preference); 1 cup Jasmine Rice (or basmati rice); 1 can Coconut Milk (adds creaminess); 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (or canola/sunflower oil); 2 scallions Scallions (or green onions); 1/2 cup Toasted Coconut Flakes (or crushed nuts); 1/4 cup Peanuts (or cashews); 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro; 1/4 cup Fresh Mint; 1/4 cup Thai Basil (or regular basil)

As the sun sets, transporting me to a tropical paradise, I find myself craving something bright and vibrant. Enter my Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice! This dish is an easy weeknight escape that brings a delightful burst of exotic flavors right to your kitchen. With tender pork drenched in a tangy ginger-lime glaze, paired with creamy coconut rice, it’s a quick dinner solution that can be ready in just 35 minutes. Not only is it a fantastic way to please the family, but it’s also gluten-free when you opt for tamari. Will you join me and whip up this irresistible, Asian-inspired feast?

Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its Finest: This Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice comes together in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something special without the hassle.

Bold Flavors: Expect an explosion of vibrant, tropical tastes from the ginger-lime marinade, highlighting how easy it is to create an unforgettable meal.

Versatile Options: Choose between pork medallions or ground pork, giving you flexibility in preparation and catering to what you have on hand.

Crowd-Pleaser: With flavors that appeal to everyone, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends—pair it with a side like a refreshing cucumber salad for the ultimate experience!

Healthier Twist: Glutten-free when using tamari, you can enjoy a delicious meal without worrying about dietary restrictions. Dive into this tasty escape and savor every bite!

Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Ingredients

For the Pork Marinade

Pork Tenderloin – Main protein that guarantees tenderness; substitute ground pork for a different texture.
Fresh Ginger – Adds warmth and depth; no substitute, but ginger powder works in a pinch.
Lime Juice – Brightens and balances flavors; lemon juice can be used for a similar tang.
Soy Sauce – Provides umami and saltiness; swap for tamari to keep it gluten-free.
Brown Sugar – Sweetness to round out the dish; honey or maple syrup are great alternatives.
Garlic – Gives aromatic depth; fresh is best, with no substitutes recommended.
Sriracha – Offers gentle heat; feel free to adjust according to spice preference or omit for milder flavor.

For the Coconut Rice

Jasmine Rice – The perfect base for this dish; basmati rice serves as a suitable alternative.
Coconut Milk – Contributes creaminess; other plant-based milks can be used but will alter the flavor.
Vegetable Oil – Necessary for cooking; canola or sunflower oil are good substitutes.

For the Garnish

Scallions – Enhances the freshness; green onions can be used instead.
Toasted Coconut Flakes – Adds extra texture and nutty flavor; replace with crushed nuts if unavailable.
Peanuts – Provides crunch and nuttiness; cashews work as a substitute or omit for nut-free.
Fresh Cilantro, Mint, and Thai Basil – Imparts herbaceous freshness; feel free to mix or substitute with regular basil.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Slice the pork tenderloin into 1-inch medallions, ensuring even thickness for consistent cooking. Set aside while you whip together the marinade. This Ginger Lime Pork will be enhanced with flavors, so preparation is key to a delicious outcome.

Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together freshly grated ginger, lime juice, soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), brown sugar, minced garlic, and sriracha. The combination should create a well-balanced marinade, with a sweet and tangy aroma. Add the pork to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated, and let it marinate for at least 5 minutes for optimal flavor infusion.

Step 3: Cook the Coconut Rice
Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low heat, cover, and let it simmer for approximately 18 minutes. The rice should be tender and creamy when finished.

Step 4: Sear the Pork
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork medallions from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the pork in the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. If using ground pork, cook until there’s no pink remaining, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 5: Create the Sauce
Once the pork is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Meanwhile, add reserved marinade to the hot skillet to deglaze, scraping up flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. This sauce will elevate your Ginger Lime Pork with additional flavor.

Step 6: Finish the Coconut Rice
Fluff the coconut rice with a fork to release any steam and incorporate its inherent creaminess. Mix in a touch of butter and a handful of toasted coconut flakes for extra texture and richness. This will make a delightful bed for your Pork.

Step 7: Plate and Garnish
Slice the rested pork into strips and arrange over the fluffy coconut rice. Drizzle the glaze from the skillet generously over the pork for that luscious finish. Top with crunchy peanuts, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, mint, and scallions to add vibrant flavors just before serving.

Make Ahead Options

For busy home cooks, this Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is perfect for make-ahead meal prep! You can marinate the pork up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the marinade ingredients, add the pork, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. The coconut rice can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; cook it as instructed, then cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, reheat the rice in a saucepan with a splash of water for moisture and cook the marinated pork just before serving for that fresh, out-of-the-pan taste. This way, you’ll enjoy a weeknight meal bursting with tropical flavors without the stress!

How to Store and Freeze Ginger Lime Pork

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the pork is completely cooled before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze cooked Ginger Lime Pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Wrap well to prevent freezer burn, and label with the date for ease of use.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the rice moist and ensure even heating.

Note: The creamy coconut rice can also be frozen separately for an easy side dish in future meals.

What to Serve with Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice

Create a delightful dining experience that transports you to a tropical paradise with these perfect accompaniments.

Steamed Broccoli: Its vibrant green color adds freshness to your plate while the mild flavor provides a lovely contrast to the bold pork.
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, a simple cucumber salad with a splash of vinegar balances the richness of the coconut rice and pork.
Mango Salsa: This sweet and zesty topping complements the tangy ginger-lime flavors beautifully, adding an extra layer of excitement to each bite.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their caramelized sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory pork, adding depth and a satisfying texture to the meal.
Sesame Green Beans: Tender green beans tossed in sesame oil bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the dish’s Asian inspiration.
Pineapple Rice: For extra tropical flair, serve jasmine rice mixed with sweet, juicy pineapple pieces to amplify the dish’s vibrant flavors.
Chilled Coconut Water: Serve a glass of fresh coconut water on the side for a hydrating and refreshing drink that complements the meal perfectly.
Lime Sorbet: For dessert, this light and zesty sorbet acts as a perfect palate cleanser, rounding off your tropical feast with a sweet finale.

Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this recipe your own with these exciting twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk with almond or oat milk for a lighter coconut flavor in the rice.
Pork Alternatives: Swap pork tenderloin for chicken thighs or tofu for a deliciously different protein option.
Spice it Up: Increase the sriracha or add chopped fresh chili to the marinade for added heat and excitement.
Rice Twist: Try quinoa or farro in place of jasmine rice for a nutty texture that pairs wonderfully with the pork.
Herb Upgrade: Mix in fresh basil or cilantro into your rice just before serving for an added burst of freshness.
BBQ Breath: Grill the pork instead of pan-searing for a smoky flavor; the marinade will caramelize beautifully.
Lettuce Wraps: Use ground pork to create refreshing lettuce wraps; simply spoon the filling into crisp lettuce leaves for a fun twist.
Nuts Overload: Experiment with different crunchy toppings like crushed cashews or almonds to add unique textures that dance on your palate.

Whether you’re looking for a lighter meal, extra spice, or new textures, these variations ensure your Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is endlessly enjoyable. And if you’re ever looking for delicious side dishes to complement your flavors, why not try my Coconut Chicken Rice or these tasty Bbq Steak Rice bowls? Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Ginger Lime Pork

Marinade Magic: Always marinate the pork for at least 5 minutes, but longer is better (up to 30 minutes) for deeper flavor absorption in your Ginger Lime Pork.

Know Your Heat: Avoid overcooking the pork by using a meat thermometer—it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F to maintain juiciness.

Rice Perfection: Rinse jasmine rice thoroughly until the water runs clear to prevent it from being too sticky, ensuring the best texture in your coconut rice.

Don’t Rush the Sauce: Deglaze the skillet with the reserved marinade for a couple of minutes to create a rich, flavorful sauce that complements the pork beautifully.

Herb Freshness: Add fresh herbs just before serving to keep their vibrant flavors intact, enhancing the final presentation of your meal.

Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this dish?
Absolutely! When selecting your pork tenderloin, look for a bright pink color with minimal marbling—this indicates freshness. For ginger, choose firm, smooth pieces without any soft spots. Fresh limes should be heavy for their size, indicating juiciness, while garlic should be firm and unbruised.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store your Ginger Lime Pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the pork is completely cooled before refrigerating to maintain freshness. To keep the coconut rice fluffy, you can mix in a splash of coconut milk or water when reheating.

Can I freeze this dish?
Of course! You can freeze cooked Ginger Lime Pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn and label it with the date for ease of use. For the best experience, freeze the creamy coconut rice separately, too, as it can be reheated and enjoyed later!

What should I do if my pork is overcooked?
Very! If you find that your pork has become dry, you can try soaking it in a warm broth or sauce, such as the reserved marinade you prepared. Just heat the sauce in the stove and dip the pork for about five minutes. For future cooking, make sure to use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F!

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! When using tamari instead of soy sauce, this recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerances. If you’re concerned about allergies, simply omit peanuts and coconut toppings, or substitute them with seeds or nut-free options.

How can I adjust the spice level in this dish?
The more the merrier! For a milder ginger lime pork, feel free to reduce or omit the sriracha entirely. Alternatively, if you want more heat, consider adding additional sriracha or even some red pepper flakes during the cooking process. Tasting the marinade and adjusting before cooking is an excellent way to customize the spice level to your preference!