The moment you take a bite of Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice, your taste buds will throw a fiesta. Imagine tender pork marinated in zesty ginger and sharp lime, paired perfectly with fluffy coconut rice that whispers of tropical beaches. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to dance around your kitchen, even if your rhythm resembles a flailing octopus.

This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s an experience that reminds me of summer barbecues with friends. I still remember the first time I made this for my family—let’s just say the compliments were flowing faster than the sweet tea. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe always steals the show and leaves everyone begging for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this dish perfect for busy weeknights or hosting friends
- Its flavor profile is a delightful balance of tangy and sweet, appealing to every palate
- The visual appeal is stunning, with vibrant colors creating an inviting plate
- Plus, it’s versatile—great for grilling or baking based on your preference
I once served this at a family reunion, and let me tell you, my cousin’s eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning when he took his first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pork Tenderloin: A lean cut that absorbs flavors beautifully; aim for around 1-1.5 pounds.
Fresh Ginger: Use fresh ginger for its aromatic punch; avoid powdered versions if possible.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness; skip the bottled stuff for better flavor.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives richness to the rice; don’t skimp here!
Basmati Rice: This grain cooks up fluffy and fragrant; it complements the coconut perfectly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will elevate your marinade; chop them finely for maximum impact.
Honey or Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the tanginess; both work well in this recipe.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness in your dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those vibrant flavors.
Green Onions (for garnish): Finely chopped green onions add color and freshness as a finishing touch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
Marinate the Pork: Start by cutting the pork tenderloin into medallions. In a bowl, mix together minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, soy sauce, and honey until well combined. Add the pork pieces and ensure they’re coated evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—longer is better!
Prepare Coconut Rice: While the pork marinates, rinse 1 cup of basmati rice under cold water until it runs clear. In a saucepan, combine rinsed rice with 1 can of coconut milk and equal parts water (about 1 cup). Bring it to a boil before reducing heat to low and covering it for about 15 minutes.
Cook the Pork: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, carefully add your marinated pork pieces without crowding them—this helps achieve that beautiful sear! Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
Add Aromatics: As the pork nears completion (when it’s lovely and caramelized), toss in any remaining marinade to deglaze your skillet. Scrape up those flavorful bits stuck on the bottom—waste not!
Fluff Rice & Serve: Once your coconut rice is done cooking, fluff it gently with a fork. Serve generous portions topped with your juicy pork medallions and drizzle some extra marinade over everything for added flavor. Don’t forget those green onions on top!
With these simple steps, you’ll have an impressive meal ready to wow anyone who sits at your table! Enjoy every bite as you savor not just incredible flavors but also memories created around shared meals.
You Must Know
- This delightful Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is not just a feast for your taste buds; it’s a celebration of tropical flavors
- The zingy ginger and zesty lime pair beautifully with tender pork, while the coconut rice adds a creamy, dreamy touch
- Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve mouthwatering results, start by marinating the pork in ginger and lime juice for at least an hour. While it marinates, prepare the coconut rice on a separate burner to save time and maximize flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pork for chicken or tofu if you prefer. Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can elevate the dish’s freshness. A sprinkle of chili flakes will add extra heat if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to maintain that tender texture of the pork and creaminess of the rice.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing your pork, ensure it’s at room temperature before cooking to promote even cooking
- Avoid overcrowding your pan to achieve that perfect sear on the meat
- Garnish with lime wedges for an extra citrusy kick when serving, bringing all those flavors together beautifully
I remember the first time I made this dish for friends; they were blown away! One friend proclaimed it was “better than takeout,” which made my heart swell with pride.
FAQ
Can I use other meats for Ginger Lime Pork?
Yes, chicken or shrimp can be excellent alternatives that still soak up those vibrant flavors.
How do I make coconut rice perfectly?
Use one cup of coconut milk combined with one cup of water for fluffy rice every time.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
A fresh salad or grilled vegetables complement Ginger Lime Pork wonderfully, balancing flavors and textures.
Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice
Ginger Lime Pork with Coconut Rice is a vibrant dish that transports your taste buds to tropical shores. Tender pork, marinated in zesty ginger and lime, pairs beautifully with fluffy coconut rice, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. This delightful meal not only pleases the palate but also brings a festive atmosphere to any dining occasion.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cut the pork tenderloin into medallions. In a bowl, combine minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, soy sauce, and honey. Add the pork, ensuring it's coated evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until clear. In a saucepan, combine rinsed rice with coconut milk and an equal amount of water (about 1 cup). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover for about 15 minutes.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated pork medallions for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Once the pork is nearly done, add any remaining marinade to deglaze the skillet.
- Fluff the coconut rice with a fork and serve topped with pork medallions and garnished with green onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the pork longer if time allows. You can substitute pork with chicken or tofu for variations. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint enhance freshness; add chili flakes for extra heat.







