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Zesty ginger lime pork slices served over creamy coconut rice, garnished with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and chili flakes on a ceramic plate.

Zesty Ginger Lime Pork with Creamy Coconut Rice – Bold, Fresh & Easy Dinner Recipe

This Zesty Ginger Lime Pork with Creamy Coconut Rice is a tropical-inspired dinner that’s bursting with flavor! Tender pork marinated in fresh lime juice, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, then pan-seared to perfection and served over rich, creamy coconut rice. It’s a vibrant, satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or impressing guests. Fresh, tangy, and comforting all in one bite!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Southeast Asian-Inspired, Tropical Fusion
Servings 4
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium saucepan or rice cooker
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Citrus zester (optional)
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients
  

For the Pork:

  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp lime zest
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp oil for cooking

For the Coconut Rice:

  • 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
  • 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat)
  • 1 cup water
  • ½ tsp salt

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Chili flakes or sliced red chili
  • Toasted coconut
  • Lime wedges

Instructions
 

  • Marinate Pork: In a bowl, mix ground pork with ginger, lime juice, zest, soy sauce, and honey. Let sit for 30 minutes or overnight.
  • Cook Rice: In a saucepan, combine rinsed jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes. Let rest 5 minutes, then fluff.
  • Sear Pork: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add pork and cook until browned and caramelized, about 8–10 minutes. Add any remaining marinade and simmer 5 minutes until thickened.
  • Serve: Spoon coconut rice into bowls, top with pork, and garnish with cilantro, chili flakes, toasted coconut, and lime wedges.

Notes

  • For extra brightness, add lime zest to the rice or pork just before serving.
  • Ground chicken or tofu can be substituted for pork.
  • Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
  • Coconut milk may separate when frozen—reheat gently with added liquid to restore texture.
  • Make ahead: Marinate pork and prep rice in advance for faster assembly.
Keyword Coconut Rice, Comfort Food, Dairy-Free, Ginger, Gluten-Free, Lime, Pork, quick dinner, Tropical