Ginger Lime Pork Coconut Rice

Ginger lime pork with coconut rice is a flavor-packed weeknight favorite with a balance of sweet tang and gentle heat. Juicy ground pork gets browned with fresh ginger and scallions then hit with bright lime and a hint of sriracha. Served over tender coconut rice and loaded with peanuts and vibrant herbs each spoonful feels like a mini vacation from your dinner routine.

The first time I made this was a last minute dinner plan using what I had on hand now it is one of the most requested meals in our house and always impresses someone new

Ingredients

• Olive oil: adds savory depth and helps crisp up the pork select a smooth olive oil for best results
• Scallions: both white and green parts bring brightness choose fresh firm bunches for the most flavor
• Garlic: makes everything more aromatic fresh cloves give the best punch
• Fresh ginger: brings a sweet spicy note and should be juicy and firm without wrinkles
• Ground pork: is juicy tender and rich opt for a package with a pink color and even texture
• Light brown sugar: boosts caramelization and balances the tang loosely pack your measuring cup for accuracy
• Lime juice: brightens everything up use freshly squeezed for best results
• Sriracha: offers subtle heat and tang start with less and add more to taste
• Fine sea salt and black pepper: for seasoning grind pepper fresh for more flavor
• Coconut rice: creamy and fragrant jasmine rice simmered with coconut milk adds natural sweetness try to pick a high quality coconut milk without many additives
• Chopped peanuts: add crunch buy roasted unsalted peanuts if available
• Extra lime wedges: for added zing at the table
• Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro or Thai basil): offer aromatics and color choose vibrant bunches with no wilt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté Aromatics:

In a large sauté pan warm olive oil over high heat then add the white parts of scallions along with garlic and ginger stir often until they smell very fragrant and the garlic turns lightly golden about two minutes

Brown the Pork:

Scatter ground pork into the pan break it apart well using a sturdy wooden spoon cook over high heat stirring and pressing so it browns evenly and no pink remains this usually takes about six to eight minutes

Add Sauce and Caramelize:

Sprinkle in brown sugar then pour in lime juice and sriracha stir until every piece of pork is coated with the glossy sauce then let the pork sit in the hot pan undisturbed for about two minutes this lets the bottom caramelize scrape up the golden bits from the bottom and repeat for another minute or two for deep flavor

Season to Taste:

Taste the pork before serving adjust with a pinch of salt more pepper or another squeeze of lime add a little extra sriracha for those who love heat

Serve and Garnish:

Spoon fluffy coconut rice into bowls top with generous helpings of the ginger lime pork finish with green scallion tops chopped peanuts torn herbs and extra lime wedges on the side so everyone can build their perfect bite

Pin it

My favorite part is the contrast between creamy coconut rice and fresh herbs every time I chop up a bunch of mint I think of my sister who taught me to never skip the herbs even on a rushed night they really do make such a difference

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days to keep the herbs fresh store them separately and add right before eating for best flavor and texture you can freeze the pork mixture without the rice for up to two months let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground chicken or turkey can work in place of pork if you want a lighter option you can also swap sriracha with any mild chili garlic sauce and if peanuts are not an option try roasted cashews or simply leave them out the coconut rice can be made with light coconut milk if you want to lower the fat slightly

Serving Suggestions

This savory sweet pork goes perfectly over coconut rice alone but you can bulk up the meal with quick pickled veggies or a simple cucumber salad try stuffing leftovers in lettuce cups for a fresh lunch or wrap them in rice paper rolls for an easy picnic dish

Pin it

Cultural Inspiration

This dish is inspired by the balance of flavors found throughout Southeast Asian kitchens the combination of sweet salty spicy and sour brings to mind the family meals I enjoyed in local Thai and Vietnamese restaurants especially when finished with loads of fresh herbs and peanuts

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I achieve caramelization on the pork?

After adding the sauce, let the pork cook undisturbed for a few minutes to form a flavorful golden crust. Stir once and repeat for even color and taste.

→ Can I use another ground meat?

Yes, ground chicken or turkey are great alternatives. Adjust cooking time and seasoning to suit your preference.

→ How is coconut rice prepared?

Coconut rice is made by simmering jasmine rice in coconut milk, water, a bit of sugar, and salt until fluffy and fragrant.

→ What herbs work best as garnish?

Cilantro, mint, and Thai basil provide freshness and complement the dish's flavors beautifully.

→ Is it possible to make it less spicy?

Absolutely. Simply reduce or omit the sriracha to control the level of heat.

→ Can I prep any ingredients ahead?

Chop scallions, mince garlic and ginger, and measure seasonings in advance to speed up cooking.