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Flavorful Korean BBQ Tacos Recipe with Easy Tangy Kimchi Slaw

Korean BBQ tacos - featured image

These Korean BBQ tacos combine sweet, spicy marinated beef with a tangy kimchi-inspired slaw for a quick, flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb thinly sliced beef flank steak or skirt steak
  • 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • ½ cup chopped kimchi (drained)
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise (vegan mayo optional)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (optional garnish)
  • Thinly sliced green onions
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining gochujang, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar in a large bowl. Whisk until smooth and fragrant.
  2. Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, toss to coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or up to 2 hours.
  3. While the beef marinates, shred cabbage and carrots and place in a medium bowl. Add chopped kimchi, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, and honey if using. Toss to combine and chill in the fridge.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated beef in a single layer for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized but still juicy. Cook in batches if needed.
  5. Warm the tortillas in a dry pan or microwave wrapped in a damp towel for about 30 seconds.
  6. Assemble tacos by placing beef strips on tortillas, topping with kimchi slaw, and garnishing with cilantro, green onions, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately.

Notes

Slice beef thinly across the grain for tenderness. Marinate at least 20 minutes but no more than 2 hours to avoid mushy texture. Drain kimchi to prevent soggy slaw. Warm tortillas just before serving to keep them soft. Reheat beef gently to avoid dryness. Toss slaw before serving leftovers to refresh flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Korean BBQ tacos, kimchi slaw, Korean beef tacos, quick tacos, easy weeknight dinner, Korean marinade, tangy slaw, gochujang recipe