Korean BBQ Tacos: A Fusion Feast Worth Craving

Korean BBQ Tacos

When two culinary worlds collide, magic happens.

These Korean BBQ Tacos marry the bold, savory flavors of Korean barbecue with the playful, handheld appeal of tacos.

Juicy, marinated beef paired with tangy slaw and a spicy kick all wrapped in a warm tortilla—it’s a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance.

Whether it’s taco night or a casual get-together, these tacos will steal the show. Ready to impress your dinner guests or simply treat yourself?

Let’s dive in!

How to Make It

Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

Marinate the beef
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and optional gochujang. Add the thinly sliced beef and mix well to ensure every piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.

Prepare the Slaw
While the beef marinates, prepare the slaw. In a large bowl, combine shredded purple cabbage, carrots, rice vinegar, mayonnaise, sesame oil, and black sesame seeds. Toss everything together until the slaw is evenly coated in the tangy dressing. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cook the Beef
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over high heat. Add a drizzle of sesame oil to the pan and let it heat until shimmering. Place the marinated beef slices in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, letting the edges caramelize before flipping. Repeat in batches if necessary.

Warm the Tortillas
Use a dry skillet or open flame to warm your tortillas. Toast each side until soft and slightly charred. Stack them on a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm.

Assemble the Tacos
Lay a tortilla flat and add a layer of caramelized beef down the center. Top with a generous scoop of slaw, drizzle with sriracha mayo, and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish.

Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the tacos on a platter, serve with lime wedges for a zesty kick, and let everyone dig in!

Pro Tips

• Freeze the beef slightly before slicing: It’s easier to achieve thin, even slices when the beef is partially frozen.
• Use a grill pan for extra char: Adds an authentic BBQ flavor.
• Don’t skip the slaw: Its tanginess balances the richness of the beef.
• Double the marinade: Reserve some to use as a sauce (just make sure it hasn’t touched raw meat).

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store the cooked beef and slaw in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Marinated uncooked beef can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
• Reheat: Warm the beef in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact.