Let me tell you, there’s something magical about the combination of ginger and lime that just elevates any dish, and my Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is no exception! This meal is a burst of flavor, with the zingy ginger and zesty lime infusing the pork with a deliciously tangy kick. What I love most is how this dish transports me to a tropical paradise, even when I’m just cooking in my cozy kitchen. It’s a family favorite and a go-to for gatherings because it’s as impressive as it is easy to make. Trust me, you’re going to want to dive right into this one!
Ingredients for Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
- 2 limes, juiced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- Salt to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
How to Prepare Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
Now, let’s dive into the steps for making this delightful dish! It’s straightforward, and I promise, the flavors are so worth it. First, we’ll start with marinating the pork to really let those ginger and lime flavors shine.
Marinating the Pork
In a mixing bowl, combine the grated ginger, freshly juiced limes, soy sauce, and honey. Give it a good stir until everything is well blended. This is where the magic happens! Place your pork tenderloin in the bowl, making sure it’s completely coated in that zesty marinade. Cover it and let it marinate in the fridge for at least an hour. If you have a little extra time, letting it sit longer (even overnight) will deepen those flavors even more—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Cooking the Coconut Rice
While the pork is soaking up all that goodness, let’s move on to the rice. Start by rinsing your jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and keeps your rice fluffy! In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low, covering the pot. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes. The salt is crucial here—it really enhances the creamy coconut flavor!
Cooking the Pork
Once the rice is nearly done, it’s time to cook the pork! Heat up your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade (but don’t toss that marinade just yet!). Grill or pan-sear the pork for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 145°F (63°C). After cooking, let the pork rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it. This helps keep it juicy and tender, and that’s what we’re all about!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a little breakdown of what you can expect in each serving of this delicious Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of the dish’s nutritional profile!
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 25g
This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a balanced meal packed with flavors and nutrients. Enjoy every bite, knowing it’s good for you too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavorful combination of ginger and lime that brightens up the pork.
- Creamy and satisfying coconut rice that complements the dish beautifully.
- Suitable for gluten-free diets, making it an inclusive meal option.
Tips for Success with Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice turns out perfectly every time! Trust me, a little attention to detail goes a long way.
- Adjust the lime juice: Don’t be shy about tasting the marinade! If you like a bit more tang, squeeze in an extra lime. It’s all about finding that balance that suits your palate!
- Marinate longer: For the best flavor, try to marinate the pork for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if you can! The longer it sits, the more deliciously infused it becomes.
- Don’t skip the resting time: After cooking, let the pork rest for those 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy and tender!
- Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store the pork and coconut rice separately in airtight containers. This keeps everything fresh, and you can easily reheat them without losing flavor.
- Revive the rice: When reheating the coconut rice, add a splash of water to help it regain its creamy texture. Microwave it for a minute or two, stirring occasionally!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a dish that will impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!
Variations on Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
If you’re looking to mix things up with my Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice, you’re in for a treat! There are so many fun variations to explore, and I love to get creative in the kitchen. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Different Marinades: Try swapping the ginger-lime marinade for a spicy teriyaki or a sweet chili sauce for a totally different flavor profile. You can even add some garlic or sesame oil to the marinade for extra depth!
- Alternative Proteins: Not in the mood for pork? No problem! This dish works beautifully with chicken thighs, shrimp, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly!
- Veggie Boost: Add some veggies right into the coconut rice! Peas, bell peppers, or even diced carrots will not only add color but also a lovely crunch. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking the rice.
- Herb Variations: Switch up the garnish! Instead of cilantro, try fresh basil or mint for a different herbal note that pairs well with the coconut rice.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the marinade. It’ll give your dish a fiery twist that’s absolutely delicious!
These variations keep things exciting and can cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. So, don’t hesitate to experiment and make this dish your own! Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving my Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice, the right sides can elevate the meal even further! I love to keep it fresh and balanced, so here are a few ideas that pair beautifully with the dish:
- Steamed Vegetables: A colorful medley of steamed broccoli, snap peas, and carrots adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color to your plate. The light and crisp veggies complement the creamy coconut rice perfectly!
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can brighten up the meal. The acidity of the dressing contrasts nicely with the richness of the coconut rice.
- Mango Salsa: If you want to add a tropical twist, a fresh mango salsa with diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice is a delightful addition. It brings a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pork.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a splash of rice vinegar and sesame oil offers a nice crunch and lightness that balances the dish’s richness. It’s super easy to make and adds an extra layer of flavor!
- Grilled Pineapple: For a fun twist, grill some pineapple slices and serve them on the side. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the ginger and lime beautifully, creating a deliciously harmonious meal.
With these sides, you’re not just serving a meal; you’re creating a delightful dining experience that’s bursting with flavor and freshness. Enjoy every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to properly store those delicious leftovers of my Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice! If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to savor every last bite, so here are the best practices to keep everything fresh and tasty.
First off, once your meal has cooled down, divide the pork and coconut rice into separate airtight containers. This is key because it helps maintain the texture of both components. The rice can get a little mushy if it sits in the juices of the pork, and nobody wants that! You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When it’s time to reheat, I recommend being gentle to preserve that creaminess of the coconut rice and the juiciness of the pork. For the rice, add a splash of water before microwaving—it helps bring back that lovely creamy consistency! Heat it in short intervals, about 1-2 minutes at a time, stirring in between until it’s warmed through.
As for the pork, you can either microwave it on low power or warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat. Just be careful not to overcook it, as that can dry it out! If you’re using a skillet, adding a tiny bit of water can create steam and keep it nice and juicy.
With these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy your Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice just as much as the first time around. Happy reheating!
Print
Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice: 5 Easy Flavor Hacks
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful dish featuring marinated pork with ginger and lime, served over creamy coconut rice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
- 2 limes, juiced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- Salt to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate pork with ginger, lime juice, soy sauce, and honey for at least 1 hour.
- Rinse jasmine rice under cold water.
- In a pot, combine coconut milk, water, and salt; bring to a boil.
- Add rice to the pot, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Grill or pan-sear the marinated pork until cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.
- Let pork rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- Serve pork over coconut rice, garnished with cilantro.
Notes
- Adjust lime juice for desired tanginess.
- Allow pork to marinate longer for more flavor.
- Keep leftover rice in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Ginger Lime Pork, Coconut Rice, Asian Fusion, Main Course