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Korean BBQ Short Rib Tacos with Kimchi Slaw

Korean BBQ Short Rib Tacos with Kimchi Slaw bring together the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with a trendy twist that will elevate your taco nights to a whole new level. Imagine tender, succulent beef short ribs marinated in a savory-sweet Korean BBQ sauce, paired with a tangy and spicy kimchi slaw, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. This fusion dish is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, marrying the smoky richness of the meat with the bright crunch of the slaw, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.

The Story Behind the Recipe

This recipe pays homage to the vibrant and dynamic flavors of Korean barbecue, a beloved culinary tradition that centers around grilling meat, particularly beef, pork, and chicken. Korean BBQ is not just a meal; it's a social and interactive dining experience where friends and family gather around a grill, cook their own meats, and enjoy the communal atmosphere. The idea of combining Korean BBQ with tacos came from the desire to merge two beloved cuisines into a single, mouthwatering dish that is perfect for sharing and enjoying with loved ones.

Ingredients and Flavors

The star of this dish is the beef short ribs, which are marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, and sesame oil to infuse them with that signature umami flavor. The kimchi slaw adds a refreshing and spicy kick, balancing out the richness of the meat. The combination of flavors in this dish is a culinary adventure—sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy all at once, creating a complex and satisfying taste profile that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Cooking Techniques

To achieve the perfect tenderness and flavor, the beef short ribs are best cooked low and slow, allowing the marinade to penetrate the meat and create a caramelized crust when grilled. The kimchi slaw is a quick and easy addition that brings a burst of freshness to the tacos. Assembling the tacos is an art form in itself—warm the tortillas, pile them high with the juicy short rib meat, top with the vibrant kimchi slaw, and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a final touch of brightness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef short ribs and kimchi slaw ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. Marinate the short ribs overnight for maximum flavor, and the kimchi slaw can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Simply reheat the meat before serving and assemble the tacos fresh for the best results.

Conclusion

Korean BBQ Short Rib Tacos with Kimchi Slaw are a culinary adventure that brings together the best of Korean and Mexican flavors in a single, delicious bite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a flavor-packed meal, these tacos are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to experience a fusion of flavors like never before. Try this recipe, make it your own, and share the joy of good food with those around you. Happy cooking!
Difficulty Intermediate
Time
Prep Time: 30 mins Cook Time: 30 mins Rest Time: 30 mins Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins
Servings 4
Calories 240 kcal
Best Season Suitable throughout the year
Description

Delight in the fusion of Korean BBQ beef short ribs and tangy kimchi slaw, all wrapped in a warm tortilla.

Ingredients
    Korean BBQ Short Ribs
  • 2 lbs Beef short ribs (Ask your butcher to cut them thinly for tacos.)
  • 1/2 cup Soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup Brown sugar
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp Ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp Rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Kimchi Slaw
  • 2 cups Kimchi, chopped
  • 2 tbsp Mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp Sugar
  • 2 cups Cabbage, shredded
  • 1/4 cup Green onions, chopped
Instructions
    Marinate the Short Ribs
  1. Marinate the Short RibsIn a bowl, combine soy sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, sesame oil, and pear juice. Add the short ribs, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
    Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
  2. Make the Kimchi Slaw
  3. Prepare the Kimchi SlawMix shredded cabbage, kimchi, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
    Adjust the kimchi amount based on your spice preference.
  4. Cook the Short Ribs
  5. Grill or Broil the Short RibsPreheat the grill or broiler. Cook the marinated short ribs for about 3-4 minutes per side until nicely charred and cooked to your liking. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
    For extra smoky flavor, grill over charcoal if possible.
  6. Assemble the Tacos
  7. Assemble the TacosWarm corn tortillas. Place a few slices of grilled short ribs on each tortilla. Top with kimchi slaw and garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and a drizzle of sriracha.
    Feel free to add additional toppings like avocado or cilantro for extra freshness.
  8. Serve and Enjoy
  9. Serve the TacosServe the Korean BBQ Short Rib Tacos with Kimchi Slaw immediately while warm. Enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures in every bite!
    These tacos are best enjoyed fresh but can also be a great leftover meal.
Note

- For a vegetarian option, substitute the short ribs with marinated tofu or tempeh.
- Adjust the spice level of the kimchi slaw by adding more or less Korean chili paste according to your preference.
- If you can't find Korean chili paste, you can use Sriracha as a substitute.
- Make the kimchi slaw ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together for a more delicious outcome.
- Feel free to customize your tacos with additional toppings like sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
- These tacos are best enjoyed fresh but you can store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just assemble the tacos right before serving for the best taste and texture.

Wrap Up Your Korean BBQ Short Rib Tacos Journey

Experience the Flavor Explosion:

In every bite of these Korean BBQ Short Rib Tacos with Kimchi Slaw, you'll find a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors dancing on your taste buds. The tender, marinated short ribs paired with the vibrant and crunchy kimchi slaw create a culinary experience like no other.

Memorable Moments:

Imagine the sizzle of the BBQ, the aroma of the marinade wafting through the air, and the first crunch of the taco shell as you dig into these delicious creations. These tacos are not just a meal; they are a sensory experience that will transport you to the bustling streets of Seoul.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips:

For a complete meal, serve these tacos with a side of steamed rice or a refreshing cucumber salad. If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store the components separately to maintain their freshness. The short ribs and kimchi slaw can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated before assembling fresh tacos.

Join the Culinary Adventure:

Now that you have the recipe in your hands, don't hesitate to dive into the world of Korean BBQ Short Rib Tacos with Kimchi Slaw. Get creative with your toppings, experiment with different marinades, and make this dish your own. Share your experiences, ask questions, and let's keep the culinary conversation going!