Picture this: the tantalizing aroma of ginger and lime fills your kitchen, transporting you to a sunny tropical beach with every bite. I recently whipped up this Easy Ginger Lime Pork with Creamy Coconut Rice on a whim and was instantly captivated by the balance of flavors. The juicy pork, marinated in a sweet and tangy concoction, paired with luxuriously creamy coconut rice, makes for an unforgettable weeknight meal that’s both quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Whether you choose tender medallions or go for the heartiness of ground pork, this dish is a versatile gem that caters to any craving. It takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something special without the fuss. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a crunch of peanuts, and you’ve got a sensational dinner that’s sure to impress the whole family. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this easy, mouth-watering recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Ginger Lime Pork
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe is not only quick, taking just 35 minutes, it also requires minimal steps and a handful of everyday ingredients.
Bursting with flavor: The sweet and tangy marinade of ginger and lime infuses the pork with a unique zest that is truly irresistible.
Creamy coconut rice: The luscious coconut rice complements the pork perfectly, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
Flexible options: Whether you prefer medallions for a tender bite or ground pork for a hearty feel, this dish easily adapts to your preferences.
Crowd-pleaser: With its Asian-inspired flair and rich flavors, this meal is sure to impress the entire family and make weeknight dinners exciting!
Easily customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe, as it allows for ingredient substitutions that cater to your needs.
Dive into this tempting dish that’ll bring the tropics to your table!
Easy Ginger Lime Pork Ingredients
For the Pork
- Pork Tenderloin (or Ground Pork) – Choose medallions for tenderness or ground pork for a more rustic texture.
- Ginger – Adds warmth and a zesty kick to the marinade.
- Lime Juice – Brightens the dish with its tangy acidity.
- Soy Sauce – Provides a rich umami flavor; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Brown Sugar – Balances out the lime with a hint of sweetness.
- Garlic – Enhances the complexity of flavors in the dish.
- Sriracha – Offers a mild heat that can be adjusted to taste.
For the Coconut Rice
- Jasmine Rice – A fragrant base that beautifully absorbs coconut flavors.
- Coconut Milk – Imparts creaminess and richness to the rice.
- Vegetable Oil – Used for cooking the pork to avoid sticking.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings for flavor enhancement.
For Serving
- Scallions (green and white parts) – Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color as a garnish.
- Butter – Mix into the rice for added richness and flavor.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes – For a delightful texture that complements the dish.
- Peanuts – Provides a crunchy texture, adding a nutty finishing touch.
- Fresh Cilantro, Mint, Thai Basil – Elevates the dish with fresh herbal hints.
This Easy Ginger Lime Pork recipe is not just quick to prepare but also makes for a satisfying and flavorful weeknight meal!
How to Make Easy Ginger Lime Pork
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Slice the pork tenderloin into 1-inch medallions or prepare ground pork for a delightful texture. Ensure your cuts are even for consistent cooking.
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Mix the marinade by combining minced ginger, lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sriracha in a bowl. Whisk them together until well blended and aromatic.
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Marinate the pork by adding it to the marinade, stirring to coat evenly, and letting it sit for at least 5 minutes (15 minutes is even better for deeper flavor).
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Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine it with coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and then cover, simmering for 18 minutes without lifting the lid.
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Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the marinated pork with salt and pepper before placing it in the hot skillet.
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Cook the pork medallions for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the ground pork is no longer pink. Keep an eye on them to achieve that juicy perfection!
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Rest the pork after removing it from the skillet. Deglaze the pan with the reserved marinade, simmering until it thickens—this will enhance the sauce’s flavor wonderfully.
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Fluff the coconut rice by stirring in butter and toasted coconut flakes for an extra touch of richness.
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Serve the sliced pork over the creamy rice, drizzled with the thickened pan sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs and peanuts for that perfect finish.
Optional: Add a wedge of lime on the side for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Easy Ginger Lime Pork Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful dish and make it uniquely yours!
- Chicken Option: Swap pork for chicken thighs for a juicy, tender alternative that pairs beautifully.
- Ground Turkey: Use ground turkey if you’re looking for a leaner protein option with similar flavor.
- Mild Heat: For a more subtle kick, reduce the sriracha or simply leave it out entirely.
- Different Herbs: If Thai basil isn’t available, use regular basil or even parsley for a fresh twist.
- Nut Variations: Substitute peanuts with cashews or almonds to create a new texture and flavor contrast.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace the meat with tofu or tempeh, marinating it in the same delicious ginger-lime blend.
- Coconut Milk Alternatives: Use unsweetened almond or cashew milk for a lighter version of the coconut rice.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some stir-fried bell peppers or snap peas to add vibrant veggies and extra crunch to your meal.
Each suggestion invites creativity and exploration in your cooking journey, ensuring a satisfying experience for everyone at your table!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Ginger Lime Pork
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to save the Easy Ginger Lime Pork for later, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the pork gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Coconut Rice: The coconut rice can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat it in the microwave with a little coconut milk for extra creaminess.
Expert Tips for Easy Ginger Lime Pork
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Marinade Time: Letting the pork marinate longer, ideally 15 minutes, enhances its flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step!
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Consistent Slicing: For even cooking, make sure your pork medallions are cut to uniform thickness—about 1 inch works best.
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Watch the Heat: Cook the pork on medium-high heat; too high can lead to burning while too low may dry it out.
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Deglaze Wisely: Use the reserved marinade to deglaze the pan; it captures delicious browned bits and adds depth to your sauce.
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Coconut Rice Trick: Fluffing the rice with butter and toasted coconut flakes not only adds richness but also enhances texture and flavor for your Easy Ginger Lime Pork.
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Alert for Ground Pork: If using ground pork, break it up well while cooking for even texture and perfect doneness—don’t let it clump!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice are perfect for busy weeknights and make excellent meal prep candidates! You can marinate the pork in the zesty ginger-lime marinade up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate for a deliciously enhanced taste. The coconut rice can also be prepped and cooked up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, just reheat the rice on the stove with a splash of coconut milk to restore its creamy texture. To complete your meal, sauté the marinated pork as instructed right before serving for juicy, flavorful results without the fuss!
What to Serve with Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice?
Transform your dinner into a vibrant feast with delightful sides that perfectly complement the flavors of this tropical-inspired dish.
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Steamed Broccoli: This bright veggie provides a crunch and a dose of nutrients, balancing the richness of the pork and rice.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side with rice vinegar dressing, it adds a cool contrast that brightens up every bite.
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Grilled Pineapple: The natural sweetness of grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with the tangy pork, bringing a taste of the tropics to your meal.
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Mango Salsa: A burst of fruity sweetness enhances the dish’s flavor while adding a colorful touch to your plate.
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Thai Spring Rolls: Serve these as a light and crunchy appetizer, filled with fresh veggies that meld well with the ginger-lime profile.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: Ideal as a dipping sauce, it adds a kick of heat and sweetness that elevates the flavors of both pork and rice.
Dive into these pairings to create a well-rounded meal that’s as delightful to the palate as it is to the eye!
Easy Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to pick ripe ginger?
Absolutely! When selecting ginger, look for firm, smooth pieces that have a fresh, vibrant aroma. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these may indicate it’s old or dried out. The shinier the skin, the better!
How do I store leftovers of this recipe?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to preserve freshness. Reheat gently, and consider adding a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist.
Can I freeze the Easy Ginger Lime Pork?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooked pork in a freezer-safe container and it will last up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. When reheating, do so on low heat and add a bit of liquid to maintain its juiciness.
What should I do if the pork is dry after cooking?
If you find your pork turns out dry, don’t worry! A quick solution is to drizzle some sauce over it while reheating to restore moisture. Additionally, consider marinating the pork for 15 minutes instead of the minimum 5, to lock in more flavor and juices when cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! Just substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, a gluten-free alternative, and you’re all set to enjoy this delicious dish without any worries. Feel free to check other ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I use a different type of pork or chicken for this recipe?
Certainly! You can substitute the pork tenderloin with chicken thighs or even ground turkey if you prefer. Just remember that cooking times may vary, especially for ground proteins, so keep an eye on them to ensure they’re cooked through.
Easy Ginger Lime Pork with Creamy Coconut Rice for Busy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the pork tenderloin into 1-inch medallions or prepare ground pork for a delightful texture. Ensure your cuts are even for consistent cooking.
- Mix the marinade by combining minced ginger, lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sriracha in a bowl. Whisk them together until well blended and aromatic.
- Marinate the pork by adding it to the marinade, stirring to coat evenly, and letting it sit for at least 5 minutes (15 minutes is even better for deeper flavor).
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine it with coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and then cover, simmering for 18 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the marinated pork with salt and pepper before placing it in the hot skillet.
- Cook the pork medallions for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the ground pork is no longer pink.
- Rest the pork after removing it from the skillet. Deglaze the pan with the reserved marinade, simmering until it thickens.
- Fluff the coconut rice by stirring in butter and toasted coconut flakes.
- Serve the sliced pork over the creamy rice, drizzled with the thickened pan sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs and peanuts.