Bulgogi Tacos – 15 Minutes to Bold & Juicy
Table of Contents
Bulgogi Tacos
Craving something bold, juicy, and ready in a flash? These Bulgogi Tacos are about to revolutionize your weeknight dinner game! Marrying the sweet-savory flavors of Korean bulgogi beef with the handheld convenience of Mexican tacos, this fusion creation delivers an explosion of taste with minimal effort. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a crave-worthy meal that looks and tastes like it came from a trendy food truck. Created exclusively for DailyMeatRecipe, these Bulgogi Tacos will satisfy your hunger for something exciting while keeping prep time blissfully short!
Ingredients Of Bulgogi Tacos
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ribeye or sirloin steak, thinly sliced | 1 pound (450g) |
| Soy sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Asian pear, grated (or apple) | 2 tablespoons |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Ginger, freshly grated | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green onions, chopped | 4 stalks, divided |
| Corn tortillas | 8-10 (6-inch) |
| Vegetable oil for cooking | 2 tablespoons |
| For the Quick Slaw: | |
| Cabbage, thinly sliced | 2 cups |
| Carrots, julienned | 1/2 cup |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| For Garnish: | |
| Sesame seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Lime wedges | 1 lime, cut into wedges |
| Sriracha mayo (optional) | 1/4 cup |
| Cilantro, chopped (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
| Kimchi, chopped (optional) | 1/2 cup |
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 390 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbs | 23g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 75mg |
| Sodium | 720mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
| Potassium | 12% DV |
| Vitamin A | 40% DV |
| Vitamin C | 22% DV |
Nutrition values are approximate and based on 4 servings (2-3 tacos per serving).
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
- Marinate the beef: In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, grated Asian pear, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and half the chopped green onions. Add the thinly sliced beef and mix well to coat. Let marinate while you prepare the other components (even just 5 minutes makes a difference!).
- Make the quick slaw: In another bowl, toss together the sliced cabbage, julienned carrots, rice vinegar, and salt. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Cook the bulgogi: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef is caramelized and cooked through. The high heat helps develop those delicious crispy edges!
- Warm the tortillas: While the beef cooks, warm your corn tortillas. Either place directly over a gas flame for 10-15 seconds per side, heat in a dry skillet, or wrap in damp paper towels and microwave for 30 seconds.
- Assemble the tacos: Place a spoonful of bulgogi beef onto each warm tortilla. Top with the quick slaw, remaining green onions, and your choice of garnishes (sesame seeds, sriracha mayo, cilantro, and/or kimchi).
- Serve immediately: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos just before serving for a bright finish.
Helpful Tips
Cooking Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
- Serves: 4 (2-3 tacos per person)
Temperature Notes
- Cook beef over high heat (425-450°F) for best caramelization
- Internal temperature for the beef should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of steamed rice to soak up extra bulgogi sauce
- Kimchi adds authentic Korean flavor and probiotic benefits
- For a complete meal, add Korean-inspired pickled cucumbers on the side
- A cold Asian beer like Hite or Sapporo pairs perfectly with these tacos
- For a non-alcoholic option, try Korean barley tea (boricha)
Ingredient Substitutions
- No Asian pear? Use a sweet apple, kiwi, or 1 tablespoon of pineapple juice
- Ground beef works well as a budget-friendly alternative (reduce cooking time to 4-5 minutes total)
- For a lower-carb option, use butter lettuce leaves instead of tortillas
- Vegetarians can substitute firm tofu or tempeh (slice thin and follow same marinade and cooking instructions)
- Flour tortillas can be used instead of corn if preferred
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get my beef sliced super thin?
For restaurant-quality thin slices, partially freeze your steak for 20-30 minutes before slicing. This firms up the meat, making it easier to cut into those signature paper-thin slices. Always cut against the grain for maximum tenderness!
Can I make the components ahead of time?
Absolutely! The bulgogi marinade can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The meat can marinate for up to 24 hours (intensifying the flavor). The slaw can be made up to 2 hours ahead but is best fresh.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the beef, slaw, and tortillas separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The beef and slaw will keep for 2-3 days. Reheat the beef in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes to restore its juiciness before assembling fresh tacos.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes! Add 1-2 teaspoons of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade for an authentic Korean heat. Alternatively, include thinly sliced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers in your taco toppings, or simply serve with additional sriracha or hot sauce on the side.
What’s the best cut of beef for bulgogi tacos?
Ribeye and sirloin are traditional choices for their marbling and tenderness. However, flank steak or skirt steak work well too when sliced thinly against the grain. For a budget option, chuck roast sliced very thin is surprisingly delicious!
How to Make Bulgogi Tacos Even Better
For an extra layer of flavor that will make these tacos truly unforgettable, try making quick-pickled red onions! Simply soak thinly sliced red onion in equal parts rice vinegar and water with a pinch of sugar for just 15 minutes while preparing the other ingredients. At DailyMeatRecipe, we’ve found this bright, tangy addition cuts through the richness of the bulgogi perfectly!
Give these 15-Minute Bold & Juicy Bulgogi Tacos a try tonight and let us know what you think in the comments section! Share your own fusion taco creations and tips for elevating this Korean-Mexican masterpiece!
