Spicy Korean beef tacos with avocado slaw are the ultimate fusion of bold flavors and global culinary traditions. Tender, juicy beef is cooked in a spicy-sweet gochujang marinade, then layered with a creamy, zesty avocado slaw in warm, soft tortillas. This dish is a true celebration of the vibrant tastes and textures that make Korean and Mexican cuisines so craveable. Whether you’re hosting a lively taco night or craving a cozy, comforting meal, these tacos are guaranteed to deliver big, satisfying flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Korean Beef Tacos with Avocado Slaw
These spicy Korean beef tacos with avocado slaw are the perfect balance of bold, global flavors and irresistible comfort. The gochujang-marinated beef is tender, juicy, and packed with a smoky, slightly sweet heat that pairs beautifully with the cool, creamy avocado slaw. The bright, zesty slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef, while the soft tortillas provide a warm, satisfying base. This dish is a true fusion of culinary traditions, bringing together the vibrant tastes of Korea and Mexico in a truly craveable way. Plus, it’s easy to make at home, with simple, chef-tested steps for reliable results every time. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or craving a comforting, flavor-packed meal, these spicy Korean beef tacos are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
To make these spicy Korean beef tacos with avocado slaw, you’ll need a mix of bold, flavorful ingredients. The marinade for the beef features a combination of gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, honey, and garlic, which infuses the meat with a delicious spicy-sweet flavor. For the slaw, you’ll toss shredded cabbage and carrots with a creamy avocado dressing, along with fresh cilantro and lime juice for brightness. Soft tortillas, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds complete the dish, adding texture and visual appeal.
- 1 lb – Sliced beef (sirloin or flank steak)
- 2 tbsp – Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tbsp – Soy sauce
- 2 tbsp – Honey
- 3 cloves – Garlic, minced
- 1 cup – Shredded cabbage
- 1 cup – Shredded carrots
- 1 medium – Avocado, mashed
- 2 tbsp – Mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp – Lime juice
- 1/4 cup – Chopped cilantro
- 8-10 – Soft tortillas (corn or flour)
- 2 – Green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp – Sesame seeds
Ingredient Substitutions
- Gochujang: Substitute a mix of sriracha and honey (for a similar spicy-sweet flavor)
- Avocado: Use Greek yogurt or sour cream in place of the avocado (for a dairy-based slaw)
How to Make Spicy Korean Beef Tacos with Avocado Slaw
Begin by preparing the gochujang marinade for the beef. In a medium bowl, whisk together the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the sliced beef, tossing to coat it evenly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to develop.
Step 1: [Prep Work]
Next, make the avocado slaw. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate small bowl, mash the avocado with the lime juice, mayonnaise, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth. Pour the avocado dressing over the cabbage and carrots, and toss to coat evenly. Stir in the chopped cilantro and set the slaw aside.
Step 2: [Main Cooking Process]
When you’re ready to cook, heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil, and then add the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: [Final Steps/Assembly]
To assemble the tacos, warm the tortillas according to package instructions. Divide the spicy Korean beef evenly among the tortillas, then top each one with a generous spoonful of the creamy avocado slaw. Garnish the tacos with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Step 4: [Finishing Touches]
Serve the spicy Korean beef tacos with avocado slaw immediately, while the beef is hot and the slaw is fresh and crunchy. Enjoy these vibrant, flavor-packed tacos with your favorite hot sauce or additional lime wedges on the side.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- For a Heartier Taco: Add a scoop of cooked rice or quinoa to the tortillas before topping with the beef and slaw
- For Extra Crunch: Top the slaw with toasted sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, or fried onion strings
- Vegetarian/Vegan Version: Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms, crumbled tofu, or grilled portobello mushroom caps
- Adjust Spice Level: Start with a smaller amount of gochujang in the marinade, and add more for extra heat
Serving & Storage
Serve with: additional lime wedges, hot sauce, and your favorite taco toppings.
Storage: Keep the beef and slaw separate. The cooked beef can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, and the slaw will stay fresh for 2-3 days.
Reheat: Gently reheat the beef before assembling the tacos.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the marinade and slaw in advance, then cook the beef and assemble the tacos just before serving.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of these spicy Korean beef tacos with avocado slaw packs a nutritious punch. The lean beef provides a good source of protein, while the avocado and cabbage in the slaw offer fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats. The combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fats makes this dish a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbs: 35 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gochujang, and where can I find it?
Gochujang is a savory, slightly sweet, and spicy fermented Korean chili paste. It’s a staple ingredient in Korean cuisine and can be found in the international or Asian section of most well-stocked grocery stores, as well as in Asian markets.
Can I make this recipe without gochujang?
Absolutely! If you can’t find gochujang, you can substitute a mixture of sriracha and honey. Start with 2 tablespoons of sriracha and 1 tablespoon of honey, then adjust to taste.
How long should I marinate the beef?
For the best flavor and texture, we recommend marinating the beef for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours. The longer the beef marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can certainly use a different protein in this recipe. Ground turkey or chicken would also work well with the Korean-inspired marinade and avocado slaw.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make these tacos even healthier, you can use lean ground beef or turkey instead of sliced beef. You can also use Greek yogurt in place of the mayonnaise in the avocado slaw, and swap out the tortillas for lettuce cups or low-carb wraps.
Try These Next
Print
Spicy Korean Beef Tacos with Savory Avocado Slaw
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: 🌍 Global Flavors & Street Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean-Mexican Fusion
Description
These Spicy Korean Beef Tacos are a fusion of bold flavors and fresh ingredients, topped with a creamy avocado slaw. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun taco night!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp minced garlic
– 1 tsp minced ginger
– 8 small corn tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1.
2. 1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
3. 2. Drain excess fat and add soy sauce, gochujang, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. 3. In a bowl, combine diced avocado, shredded cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make the slaw.
5. 4. Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side.
6. 5. Assemble the tacos by placing the beef mixture on the tortillas and topping with avocado slaw.
7. 6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
– Adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of gochujang.
– You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or tofu for a lighter option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: tacos, korean beef, street food, spicy