Korean BBQ Beef TACOS with Slaw

Korean BBQ Beef TACOS with Slaw is a medium Korean recipe that serves 4. 550 calories per serving. Recipe by Trystan Petrash on YouTube.

Prep: 2 hrs 59 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 3 hrs 29 min

Cost: $16.59 total, $4.15 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb Chuck Steak (cut into one 1‑inch thick piece for marinating)
  • 1 medium Onion (grated)
  • 0.25 cup Soy Sauce (low‑sodium preferred)
  • 2 tbsp Mirin (sweet cooking wine)
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Oil (toasted, for flavor)
  • 2 tbsp Apple Juice (can substitute fresh grated apple)
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 0.5 cup Sour Cream
  • 1 tbsp Gochujang (Korean fermented red pepper paste)
  • 0.5 Lime (juice for crema, plus extra wedges for serving)
  • 1.5 tsp Kosher Salt (divided among several steps)
  • 1 medium Cucumber (sliced thick, then salted and sugared)
  • 1 tsp Sugar
  • 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar (enough to just cover pickles after draining water)
  • 2 cup Brussels Sprouts (thinly sliced)
  • 1 medium Carrot (peeled and julienned)
  • 1 small Kohlrabi (julienned; substitute for daikon)
  • 2 stalks Green Onion (thinly sliced, tops saved for garnish)
  • 0.5 cup Kimchi (roughly chopped, juice reserved)
  • 2 tbsp Mayonnaise
  • 2 cup All‑Purpose Flour (for tortillas)
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder
  • 4 tbsp Canola Oil (2 tbsp for dough, 2 tbsp for grilling)
  • 0.75 cup Warm Water (lukewarm, about 110°F)
  • 0.125 tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper

Instructions

  1. Make the Bulgogi Marinade

    Grate the onion into a large bowl, then add soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, apple juice, sugar, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly until the sugar dissolves.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Marinate the Beef

    Place the chuck steak in the bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

    Time: PT2H

  3. Prepare Gochujang Crema

    In a small bowl combine sour cream, gochujang, lime juice, and a pinch of kosher salt. Stir until smooth and refrigerate until needed.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Quick Pickles

    Slice the cucumber thickly, toss with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1 tsp sugar, and let sit for 10 minutes. Drain excess water, then cover with rice vinegar just enough to submerge.

    Time: PT12M

  5. Make Kimchi Slaw

    Thinly slice Brussels sprouts, julienne carrot and kohlrabi, and slice green onion (reserve tops for garnish). In a large bowl combine the vegetables, chopped kimchi, and a small amount of reserved kimchi juice. Add mayonnaise, a pinch of kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper; mix until the dressing coats the slaw but remains slightly runny.

    Time: PT15M

  6. Prepare Tortilla Dough

    In a mixing bowl combine all‑purpose flour, 1 tsp kosher salt, and baking powder. Stir, then add 2 tbsp canola oil and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add warm water gradually, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth, about 5 minutes. Shape into a ball, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rest for 30 minutes.

    Time: PT15M

  7. Grill the Beef

    Preheat a charcoal grill to 500°F. Pat the marinated steak dry, brush lightly with canola oil, and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Place the steak on the grill away from direct flames, cover, and cook until internal temperature reaches about 110°F (medium‑rare). Flip, cover again, and sear over direct flames for ~30 seconds per side to develop a charred crust. Remove and let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 500°F

  8. Cook the Tortillas

    Divide the rested dough into eight equal pieces (30‑35 g each). Shape each piece into a ball, rest 10 minutes. Press each ball using a tortilla press (or roll with a rolling pin) between parchment sheets to a thin circle. Heat a cast‑iron skillet over medium‑high until lightly smoking. Cook each tortilla 30 seconds, flip, cook another 30 seconds until bubbles form and light brown spots appear. Transfer to a plate and cover with a clean towel to stay warm.

    Time: PT5M

  9. Assemble the Tacos

    Thinly slice the rested beef against the grain. Place a warm tortilla on a plate, add a generous mound of sliced bulgogi, drizzle with pan juices, top with kimchi slaw, pickles, a drizzle of gochujang crema, and garnish with green‑onion tops and lime wedges.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
550
Protein
30 g
Carbohydrates
55 g
Fat
20 g
Fiber
5 g

Dietary info: Can be made gluten‑free with a gluten‑free flour blend., Dairy‑free version: substitute sour cream and mayonnaise with coconut yogurt and vegan mayo.

Allergens: Dairy, Gluten, Soy, Sesame

Last updated: April 15, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Korean BBQ Beef TACOS with Slaw

Recipe by Trystan Petrash

Celebrate the end of a fire ban with smoky Korean‑style bulgogi beef served in homemade flour tortillas, topped with a spicy gochujang crema, quick pickles, and a crunchy kimchi‑slaw. This fusion taco recipe blends classic Korean barbecue flavors with Mexican street‑food technique for a vibrant, crowd‑pleasing main course.

MediumKoreanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
3h 2m
Prep
10m
Cook
23m
Cleanup
3h 35m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$16.59
Total cost
$4.15
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Marinate the chuck steak for at least 2 hours (overnight preferred).
  • Pat the beef completely dry before searing to achieve a proper crust.
  • Rest the tortilla dough for 30 minutes to relax gluten.
  • Cook tortillas on a very hot skillet; they should puff and develop light brown spots in ~30 seconds per side.
  • Slice the grilled beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot charcoal grill with heat‑resistant gloves.
  • Use a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking the beef.
  • Be careful when slicing the hot steak; use a stable cutting board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Korean bulgogi in Korean cuisine?

A

Bulgogi, meaning “fire meat,” dates back to the Goguryeo era and was traditionally grilled over open flames. It became a beloved Korean barbecue staple, celebrated for its sweet‑savory marinade and tender texture, often served with rice and side dishes.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of bulgogi in Korean cuisine?

A

In the southern region, bulgogi is often marinated with pear puree for extra sweetness, while the northern style may use less sugar and more soy sauce. Some regions add gochujang for a subtle heat, creating a spicier version.

cultural
Q

How is bulgogi traditionally served in Korean meals?

A

Traditionally, bulgogi is grilled at the table and served sliced over a bed of rice, accompanied by lettuce leaves for wrapping, kimchi, and assorted banchan (side dishes). The meat’s juices are often drizzled over the rice for added flavor.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is bulgogi traditionally associated with in Korean culture?

A

Bulgogi is a popular dish for holidays such as Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) and family gatherings, as its quick cooking and crowd‑pleasing flavor make it ideal for festive meals and celebrations.

cultural
Q

How does Korean bulgogi beef tacos fit into the broader Korean‑Mexican fusion cuisine tradition?

A

Korean‑Mexican fusion blends the bold, fermented flavors of Korean barbecue with the handheld convenience of Mexican tacos. This combination reflects a modern, cross‑cultural trend seen in street‑food markets worldwide, where bulgogi’s sweet‑savory profile pairs perfectly with fresh slaws and spicy crema on a tortilla.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Korean bulgogi versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional bulgogi uses thinly sliced ribeye, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, and Asian pear. Acceptable substitutes include chuck steak (as used in this recipe), mirin for pear, and honey for sugar, while still preserving the core flavor profile.

cultural
Q

What other Korean dishes pair well with Korean bulgogi beef tacos?

A

Serve the tacos alongside classic Korean sides such as kimchi, japchae (stir‑fried glass noodles), or a simple cucumber‑soy salad. A bowl of mild doenjang soup also balances the richness of the tacos.

cultural
Q

What makes Korean bulgogi beef tacos special or unique in Korean cuisine?

A

The tacos reinterpret bulgogi’s caramelized, smoky flavor in a handheld format, adding textures like crunchy pickles and kimchi slaw. The gochujang crema adds a creamy heat that isn’t typical in traditional Korean servings, creating a distinctive fusion bite.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Korean bulgogi beef tacos?

A

Common errors include not marinating the beef long enough, failing to pat the steak dry before searing, over‑mixing the tortilla dough, and slicing the meat with the grain. Each of these can lead to tough meat, soggy tortillas, or a loss of the signature bulgogi flavor.

technical
Q

Why does this Korean bulgogi beef tacos recipe use a chuck steak instead of the traditional ribeye?

A

Chuck steak is more affordable and has abundant connective tissue that benefits from the acidic, sweet bulgogi marinade, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. The longer marination time compensates for its natural toughness, making it a budget‑friendly alternative.

technical
Q

Can I make Korean bulgogi beef tacos ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes. Marinate the beef overnight, prepare the crema and slaw up to 24 hours ahead, and keep each component in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the beef briefly on the grill or skillet before assembling the tacos.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Trystan Petrash specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Trystan Petrash focuses on outdoor cooking, barbecue techniques, and creative fusion recipes that combine global flavors with classic grilling methods.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Trystan Petrash's approach to Korean cooking differ from other Korean cooking channels?

A

Trystan Petrash blends Korean flavors with Western grilling and barbecue equipment, often using charcoal and outdoor setups, whereas many Korean cooking channels stay within indoor kitchen techniques and traditional cookware.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Korean BBQ Beef Tacos with Kimchi Slaw - Easy & Delicious Fusion Recipe! 🌮🔥
2

Korean BBQ Beef Tacos with Kimchi Slaw - Easy & Delicious Fusion Recipe! 🌮🔥

Tender marinated flank steak with Korean BBQ flavors, paired with a spicy kimchi slaw, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or any gathering, these Korean BBQ Beef Tacos with Kimchi Slaw deliver bold taste and crunchy texture.

1 hr 2 minServes 4$25
Korean-Mexican Fusion
Korean BBQ Beef Taco w/ Homemade Kimchi Recipe
2

Korean BBQ Beef Taco w/ Homemade Kimchi Recipe

A quick and flavorful fusion dish that combines Korean BBQ‑style short rib beef with tangy kimchi, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a fast dinner or a tasty snack.

33 minServes 4$13
Korean Fusion
Korean BBQ Beef Tacos
3

Korean BBQ Beef Tacos

Sweet, spicy, and savory Korean‑style barbecue beef tucked into soft corn tortillas. Marinated flank steak is grilled to perfection, then topped with tangy kimchi, crisp cucumber, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of spicy mayo. A fun fusion of Korean flavors and Mexican street‑food format, perfect for a quick dinner or party.

58 minServes 8$13
Korean-Mexican Fusion
Korean Beef Tacos
3

Korean Beef Tacos

A vibrant fusion of Korean flavors and Mexican street food: thinly sliced, marinated beef seared to a perfect char, served in butter lettuce shells or warm corn tortillas, topped with creamy avocado, tangy kimchi, and toasted sesame seeds.

35 minServes 4$22
Korean-Mexican Fusion
Korean Bulgogi Tacos, Asian Pear Kimchi Salsa
3

Korean Bulgogi Tacos, Asian Pear Kimchi Salsa

A vibrant fusion of Korean flavors and Mexican street food: tender marinated veal bulgogi served in warm tortillas, topped with a crunchy Asian pear kimchi salsa, creamy avocado, sour cream, radishes, and scallions.

1 hr 46 minServes 4$98
Korean-Mexican Fusion
TikTok Birria Recipe
3

TikTok Birria Recipe

A bold, smoky, and fiery beef chili perfect for taco night. Tender beef simmered in a rich blend of roasted California chilies, dried guajillo peppers, garlic, onion, and a splash of vinegar, finished with fresh cilantro and lemon juice.

3 hrs 30 minServes 8$93
Mexican
Texas style Brisket over charcoal! It’s super easy!
2

Texas style Brisket over charcoal! It’s super easy!

A classic Texas‑style smoked brisket cooked low and slow on a charcoal grill, finished with a tallow‑rich butcher‑paper wrap and a long rest for ultimate tenderness and flavor.

13 hrsServes 8$197
American (Texas BBQ)
BIBIMBAP - The easiest yet best recipe to follow! Most popular Korean Dish
5

BIBIMBAP - The easiest yet best recipe to follow! Most popular Korean Dish

A colorful, nutritious Korean bibimbap made with assorted seasonal vegetables, seasoned ground beef, and a sweet‑spicy gochujang sauce. Served in a regular bowl or in a sizzling stone‑pot style (dolsot) and topped with a fried egg.

1 hr 12 minServes 2$37
Korean