There’s something irresistibly comforting about the sweet and savory aroma of pulled pork simmering in a fragrant Korean BBQ sauce. Picture this: you’ve just come home after a long day, and the enticing scent wraps around you like a warm hug, promising a satisfying meal ahead. That’s what these Korean BBQ Tacos with Quick Kimchi deliver!

Life can sometimes feel like a fast-food frenzy, but I craved something special—flavorful and hearty yet easy to prepare. Enter the slow cooker! By allowing the pork shoulder to cook low and slow, it transforms into tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness that brings joy with every bite. The quick kimchi adds a zesty crunch, balancing the rich flavors in a way that’s utterly delightful.

Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, these tacos are a vibrant and delicious way to venture beyond the ordinary. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your taste buds with this mouthwatering fusion!

Why are these Korean BBQ Tacos with Quick Kimchi a must-try?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork and savory Korean BBQ sauce!

Easy Preparation: Simply set it and forget it in your slow cooker for a fuss-free meal.

Vibrant Crunch: The quick kimchi adds a refreshing zing that elevates every taco.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, these tacos will impress friends and family alike.

Customization Options: Mix and match toppings to suit your taste, making them as unique as you!

Treat yourself to these delicious tacos and embrace homemade goodness. Don’t forget to explore other delightful recipes like Savory Korean BBQ Bowls for more culinary inspiration!

Korean BBQ Tacos Ingredients

Get ready to savor mouthwatering flavors with these Korean BBQ Tacos infused with quick kimchi!

For the Pulled Pork

Pork shoulder/butt – 2-3 pounds for tender, juicy meat that shreds easily.
Reduced sodium soy sauce – ½ cup enhances flavor without excessive salt.
Water – ½ cup to keep the pork moist during cooking.
Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon adds a nutty richness to the sauce.
Rice vinegar – 1 tablespoon for a tangy kick that balances sweetness.
Garlic, minced – 3 cloves give a fragrant aroma and taste.
Ground ginger – ½ teaspoon brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
Pepper – ½ teaspoon adds a hint of spice to the dish.

For the BBQ Sauce

Low sodium soy sauce – ¼ cup for a savory base without too much sodium.
Water – ¼ cup helps adjust the consistency of the sauce.
Brown sugar – ¼ cup adds sweetness to offset the savory flavors.
Garlic, minced – 1 clove enhances the overall taste of the sauce.
Rice vinegar – 1 tablespoon brightens up the BBQ sauce.
Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon ties the flavors together perfectly.
Ground ginger – ½ teaspoon for extra warmth and spice.
Chili paste – 2 teaspoons, like Sambal Oelek, provides a customizable heat level.
Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon acts as a thickener for the sauce.
Water – 2 tablespoons to mix with cornstarch for smoothness.

For the Quick Kimchi

Shredded cabbage – 6 cups adds crunch and freshness.
Canola oil – 3 tablespoons helps coat the cabbage evenly.
Rice vinegar – 6 tablespoons gives a tangy twist to the kimchi.
Chili paste – 2 teaspoons, again adjusting to your preferred spice level.
Ground ginger – ½ teaspoon for that delightful bite.
Granulated sugar – 3 tablespoons adds a touch of sweetness to balance flavors.
Sesame oil – 1 ½ teaspoons deepens the flavor profile.
Salt – ½ teaspoon enhances overall taste and balances sweetness.
Pepper – ½ teaspoon for a fresh finish; feel free to add more!

For the Tacos

Corn tortillas – 1 package, essential for holding all the delicious fillings.
Mexican shredded cheese – 1 cup for a creamy, melty topping.
Green onions – ½ cup, diced (green part only) for a fresh, oniony bite.
Sesame seeds – Perfect for sprinkling on top for added texture.

These delectable Korean BBQ Tacos with Quick Kimchi are sure to become a family favorite!

How to Make Korean BBQ Tacos with Quick Kimchi

Prepare the Pork: Place the pork shoulder or butt in your slow cooker. In a separate bowl, stir together the soy sauce, water, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and pepper, then pour this mixture over the pork. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Shred the Meat: Once the pork is cooked, shred it using a fork and discard any bones. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker to soak in the savory sauce, ensuring each piece is bursting with flavor.
Crisp the Pork: Turn your broiler on to high and let it preheat for a few minutes. Spread the shredded pork on a dark baking sheet, draining some of the sauce. Broil on the top rack for about 5-10 minutes, stirring once to achieve slightly crispy edges. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
Make the BBQ Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, add all the BBQ sauce ingredients except for the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water. Bring the mixture to a boil. In a separate bowl, combine the water and cornstarch until dissolved, then stir into the sauce. Continue boiling for about 2 minutes until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Quick Kimchi: In a large bowl, add the shredded cabbage. In a small bowl, mix together the remaining kimchi ingredients and then pour this dressing over the cabbage. Toss well; you can serve it immediately or store in an airtight container for later use.
Warm the Tortillas: Wrap the corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and place them in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on high for about 2 minutes, or until the tortillas are warm and pliable.
Assemble the Tacos: Fill each warm tortilla with a generous portion of meat, drizzle with BBQ sauce, add cheese, and top with the quick kimchi. Garnish with diced green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds for that extra crunch.

Optional: Serve with extra chili paste on the side for those who enjoy a little more heat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Korean BBQ Tacos with Quick Kimchi?

Elevate your taco night with scrumptious sides and pairings that harmonize beautifully with these flavor-packed tacos!

Crispy Potatoes Wedges: The golden-brown crunch of seasoned potato wedges provides a satisfying contrast to the tender taco filling. These are a fun side that invites everyone to dig in!
Mango Salsa: Bright and fruity, mango salsa adds a refreshing twist that complements the savory pork and spice of the kimchi. It’s like a burst of sunshine with every bite!
Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice brings a hint of sweetness and a soft texture that balances the bold flavors of your tacos. It’s a comforting companion that’s hard to resist!
Fresh Avocado Salad: Toss together diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro for a light salad that cuts through the richness of the pork. The freshness elevates the entire meal experience!
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice: Use your leftover kimchi to whip up a quick fried rice dish. The extra kick of flavor pairs perfectly with the tacos, making for a deliciously cohesive meal.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: Crisp, cool cucumbers drizzled with sesame dressing offer a refreshing palate cleanser amidst the rich, savory flavors. It’s a delightful way to balance the meal.
Craft Beer: Pair your tacos with a cold craft beer like a light lager or pale ale. The refreshing bubbles complement the seasoning while enhancing the overall dining experience.

Balancing flavors and textures will take your Korean BBQ Tacos with Quick Kimchi to a whole new level of enjoyment!

Korean BBQ Tacos Variations

Customize your taco experience with these exciting twists and swaps that will keep your taste buds dancing!

Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick of heat that enhances the flavor of the pork.
Veggie Delight: Substitute shredded pork with sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit for a delicious vegetarian option.
Cheesy Upgrade: Swap in pepper jack cheese for a creamy, spicy twist that takes your tacos to the next level.
Sweet Pineapple: Top tacos with diced pineapples for a fresh, tropical sweetness that perfectly contrasts the savory pork.
Lime Zest: Drizzle fresh lime juice over the finished tacos for a zesty brightness that elevates every bite.
Crunchy Greens: Add a handful of shredded carrots or radishes on top of your tacos for added crunch and color.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the BBQ sauce for a depth of flavor that adds a warm, smoky touch.
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh cilantro or mint into the quick kimchi for an aromatic twist that dances in each mouthful.

Explore these delightful variations and let your culinary creativity shine!

How to Store and Freeze Korean BBQ Tacos with Quick Kimchi

Room Temperature: Enjoy your tacos fresh for up to 2 hours after serving; otherwise, they should be stored to maintain flavor and safety.
Fridge: Store pulled pork and kimchi in separate airtight containers; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat the pulled pork gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the shredded pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To revive leftover Korean BBQ tacos, microwave them or warm them in a skillet; add a splash of water to keep the pork moist while reheating.

Make Ahead Options

These Korean BBQ Tacos with Quick Kimchi are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the pulled pork and quick kimchi up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the pork in the slow cooker as instructed and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The quick kimchi can also be made ahead; just mix the cabbage and dressing together and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat the pork gently on the stove and warm the tortillas, ensuring everything is just as delicious as when freshly made. Enjoy the convenience of having this vibrant dish ready to savor!

Tips for the Best Korean BBQ Tacos with Quick Kimchi

Choose the Right Cut: Use pork shoulder or butt for optimal tenderness. These cuts have the right fat content to keep the meat juicy when cooked slowly.
Avoid Overcrowding: If your slow cooker is too full, the pork might not cook evenly. Ensure adequate space to allow steam to circulate around the meat.
Flavor Boost: Don’t skip on letting the shredded pork soak in its sauce after cooking. This step enhances the flavor and moisture, making your tacos irresistible!
Crisp Carefully: Watch the pork closely while broiling. It can go from perfectly crispy to burnt quickly, so stir occasionally for even crisping.
Quick Kimchi Balance: Adjust the sugar and spice levels in the kimchi to suit your taste. The balance of sweet and spicy is key to complementing the rich pork.
Warm Tortillas Well: Warm tortillas in a damp paper towel to keep them pliable and avoid cracking. This ensures a delightful taco experience with every bite!

Korean BBQ Tacos with Quick Kimchi Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pork for this recipe?
Absolutely! For these Korean BBQ Tacos with Quick Kimchi, I recommend using pork shoulder or butt. These cuts have ideal fat content, which keeps the meat juicy and tender during the slow cooking process, resulting in deliciously shreds of pork that melt in your mouth. Avoid lean cuts like pork loin, as they may end up dry.

How should I store leftover pulled pork and kimchi?
Very! After enjoying your tacos, store any leftover pulled pork and quick kimchi in separate airtight containers. They can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to savor the flavors again, gently reheat the pulled pork on the stove or in the microwave to restore its tenderness.

Can I freeze the pulled pork for later use?
Absolutely! To preserve your delicious pulled pork, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer the container to the fridge to thaw overnight. To reheat, add a splash of water in the microwave or a skillet to keep it moist and flavorful.

What should I do if my sauce turns out too thin?
If you find that your BBQ sauce is thinner than desired, don’t worry! Just mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce, allowing it to cook for a couple more minutes until thickened. This should help achieve that luscious, rich consistency!

Is this recipe safe for my family with allergies?
Yes! However, it’s important to ensure that none of your ingredients, such as soy sauce (which contains gluten) or sesame oil, trigger any allergies in your household. For a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free soy sauce alternatives. Always double-check labels, especially for prepared sauces, to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

How long can I keep the quick kimchi?
The quick kimchi can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. The flavors will develop over time, so I often recommend letting it sit for a few hours before serving to allow the cabbage to soak up the tangy goodness. Just give it a good stir before enjoying!