Korean beef tacos have exploded in popularity in recent years This Korean-Mexican fusion dish combines spicy-sweet marinated beef with the warm corn tortilla envelope of a taco With complex savory, spicy and tangy flavors, what sides pair best with Korean beef tacos to create a well-rounded meal?
Complementary sides help balance out and enhance the overall dining experience The right sides can take your Korean taco night from basic to exceptional Here are 15 side dish ideas to serve with Korean beef tacos.
Traditional Korean Side Dishes
To stay true to the Korean inspiration behind the tacos, serve some classic Korean banchan (side dishes) These provide an authentic taste and texture contrast
Kimchi
No Korean meal is complete without kimchi, the national dish. Kimchi’s fermented tanginess and spicy kick pairs perfectly with the savory-sweetness of bulgogi beef. The crunchy cabbage also contrasts nicely with soft tacos.
Korean Cucumber Salad
This quick pickled cucumber salad offers a refreshing flavor and texture contrast. Toss thin cucumber slices in a sweet, salty and spicy dressing of rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil and gochugaru.
Steamed Eggplant
Silky soft steamed eggplant makes a lighter pairing. Its subtle flavor soaks up the taco sauce beautifully. Add some sesame oil and seeds for extra Korean flair.
Soybean Sprouts
Nutty, crunchy soybean sprouts compliment the beef’s richness. Blanch them quickly and dress with sesame oil, garlic, salt and pepper.
Pickled & Fermented Sides
Korean cuisine utilizes lots of pickled and fermented ingredients. They balance the heavier flavors in the tacos.
Kimchi Slaw
For a lighter take on kimchi, make it into a slaw with napa cabbage, carrots and an umami dressing. The citrus and spice cuts through the beef.
Korean Radish Salad
This quick pickled daikon radish salad adds crunchy texture and refreshing tang to tacos. Toss matchsticks of radish in a sweetened rice vinegar mixture.
Spicy Cucumber Pickles
Quick-pickled cucumber slices infused with Korean chili flakes make a lively accompaniment. They take only minutes to assemble.
Korean Potato Salad
This twist on classic potato salad incorporates common Korean flavors like sesame oil, rice vinegar, onion and carrot. The starchiness pairs well with the tacos.
Veggie Sides
Fresh vegetable sides add color and texture contrast while keeping the meal balanced.
Korean Sesame Spinach
Sauteed spinach turns silky and flavorful when tossed with sesame oil, minced garlic, salt and sesame seeds.
Korean Sesame Broccoli
Another simple spinach side, charred broccoli gets tossed in a sweet and savory sesame soy sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Zucchini Pancakes
Shredded zucchini fritters, aka Korean jeon, provide a nice crunchy and savory balance when topped with a drizzle of taco sauce.
Korean Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potato cubes caramelized in a Korean honey butter glaze balance the spice and saltiness of the tacos.
Noodle & Rice Dishes
Heartier starch side dishes round out the meal beautifully.
Dolsot Bibimbap
This Korean rice bowl lets you incorporate beef and veggies into a single dish. Top still-crispy rice with beef, spinach, carrots, mushrooms and a fried egg.
Japchae Noodles
Sweet potato glass noodles tossed in sesame oil offer a deliciously slippery, nutty pairing for tacos. Add some julienned vegetables for extra nutrition.
Korean Fried Rice
Kimchi fried rice utilizes leftover beef and vegetables for a quick one-wok meal. Great for using up taco ingredients!
Final Thoughts
The beauty of Korean beef tacos lies in the creative fusion of flavors and formats. Feel free to get creative with sides too! Try out both traditional and novel pairings to find your favorite.
Aim for a mix of cooking methods and nutrition. And don’t forget a tasty dessert like sweet rice cakes. Your guests will be asking for the Korean beef taco dinner menu again and again!
Korean Beef Tacos – Marion’s Kitchen
FAQ
What to serve with Korean beef?
What is a good side dish for Korean tacos?
Daikon radish salad is an excellent side dish for Korean tacos. It is light and refreshing, and it provides a crunchy contrast to the softness of the tacos. The salad is also very easy to make, and it can be made ahead of time so that it is ready to serve when the tacos are ready.
Are green beans a good side dish for Korean tacos?
Seasoned green beans make an excellent side dish for Korean tacos. There are many reasons why green beans are a good choice for this dish. First, they add a healthy dose of vegetables to the tacos. Second, the beans help to balance out the rich flavors of the meat and cheese. Third, many recipes can be paired with the dish.
Is kimchi a good side dish for tacos?
While kimchi is best known as one of the main ingredients in Korean tacos, it also makes a great side dish. Kimchi is made from fermented cabbage and other vegetables and has a sour and spicy flavor. It’s the perfect condiment for tacos — or any other dish, for that matter.