Spicy KoreanStyle BBQ Beef Tacos with Crispy Kimchi Slaw

Spicy Korean-Style BBQ Beef Tacos with Crispy Kimchi Slaw

Tacos have become a beloved dish worldwide, but when you infuse them with the bold flavors of Korean barbecue and a refreshing crunch from crispy kimchi slaw, you create a culinary experience that is nothing short of extraordinary. This Spicy Korean-Style BBQ Beef Taco recipe not only delivers on taste, but it also offers an exciting twist on traditional taco fillings, making it a perfect option for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or simply satisfying your cravings. Let’s dive into this delicious fusion that’s sure to impress your taste buds!

Ingredients

For the Spicy Korean-Style BBQ Beef:

1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)

For the Crispy Kimchi Slaw:

2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup carrot, julienned
1 cup kimchi, chopped
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

8 small corn or flour tortillas
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper. This spicy marinade is the heart of your beef taco filling.
Place the sliced beef into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal or cover, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Kimchi Slaw

In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cabbage and julienned carrot.
Add the chopped kimchi, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chopped green onions. Toss well to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you cook the beef.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil.
Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked through and slightly caramelized. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Remove the beef from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat or directly over a flame for a few seconds on each side until pliable.
Place a generous amount of the cooked beef in the center of each tortilla.
Top with a scoop of crispy kimchi slaw and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Serve with lime wedges on the side for that extra zesty kick.

Cooking Tips

Selecting Beef: Flank steak is ideal for this recipe due to its flavor and tenderness when sliced properly. Sirloin is also a great choice if you prefer a slightly more tender cut.
Gochujang: This ingredient adds a unique depth of flavor and heat. If you want less spice, you can adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas offer a traditional taste, while flour tortillas provide a softer texture. Feel free to choose based on your preference.
Kimchi: You can use store-bought kimchi or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. Homemade kimchi allows you to customize the flavors to your liking!

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with marinated tofu or tempeh. Use the same marinade and cooking method for a delightful plant-based taco.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure your tortillas are gluten-free.
Add-Ons: Consider adding sliced avocados, radishes, or even a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

These Spicy Korean-Style BBQ Beef Tacos pair beautifully with a side of jasmine rice or a refreshing cucumber salad. For a drink, consider serving them with a cold lager or a refreshing iced tea with mint.

Final Thoughts

These Spicy Korean-Style BBQ Beef Tacos with Crispy Kimchi Slaw are not just a meal; they are an experience that brings together the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine and the beloved taco tradition. With a combination of tender marinated beef, crunchy slaw, and fresh herbs, this dish is bound to be a hit at any table.

Encourage your family and friends to join in the fun by customizing their tacos with their favorite toppings. Share this recipe with them, and watch as they marvel at the delightful fusion of flavors. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more exciting recipes and cooking tips, and feel free to explore the additional resources provided for further inspiration in your culinary journey!

Spicy KoreanStyle BBQ Beef Tacos with Crispy Kimchi Slaw