These corned beef tacos are a fun twist on a classic! With tender, seasoned corned beef piled high in soft tortillas, they are sure to make your taste buds happy.
One bite and you’ll see why I love them! Top them with some fresh veggies and a squeeze of lime for a burst of flavor. Tacos for dinner? Yes, please! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef Brisket: The star of these tacos! Look for pre-cooked corned beef for convenience, or cook it from scratch. If you’re vegetarian, try using jackfruit or tempeh seasoned with spices to mimic that rich flavor.
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas are ideal for a traditional touch. If you can’t find them, flour tortillas are a suitable alternative, though they change the texture slightly. Some like using lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option.
Shredded Purple Cabbage: The vibrant color adds appeal and crunch. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, green cabbage or lettuce would work well too. I personally enjoy adding some radishes for extra crunch!
Pickled Red Onions: These add a tangy kick! You can use regular onions soaked in vinegar if you’re short on time. You might also try sliced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Spicy Mayo: The kick comes from chipotle in adobo. If that’s not your thing, mix mayo with sriracha or even a dash of hot sauce. You can also use a vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Warm Corn Tortillas?
Warming corn tortillas properly is key for the best texture. It makes them soft and slightly crispy, enhancing the taco experience. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. No oil needed.
- Place the tortilla in the skillet for about 30 seconds until warm, then flip. You want it to soften and get just a hint of crispness.
- For added flavor, consider lightly charring them over an open flame or grill.
- Keep each tortilla warm in a clean kitchen towel while you finish warming the rest.
This step makes all the difference; warm tortillas really hold all your tasty fillings together and improve the overall taco vibe!
How to Make Corned Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb corned beef brisket, cooked and thinly sliced
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/2 cup pickled red onions
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- Lime wedges for serving
For the Sauce (Spicy Mayo):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time, which includes making the pickled onions and spicy mayo. If you’re cooking the corned beef from scratch, add an extra 2-3 hours for that. Overall, it’s a great dish that’s worth the time for its delicious flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corned Beef:
If your corned beef isn’t already cooked, start by boiling it following the package instructions (usually 2-3 hours) until it’s tender. Once it’s done, let it rest for a bit. When cooled, slice the meat thinly against the grain for the best texture.
2. Make the Pickled Red Onions:
For a quick pickle, mix some thinly sliced red onions with lime juice, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Let them soak in this mixture for at least 30 minutes—this will add a lovely tang that complements the tacos!
3. Prepare the Spicy Mayo:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced chipotle in adobo sauce, lime juice, and salt. Mix everything well, and taste it to adjust the spiciness to your liking. This creamy sauce will bring a delicious kick to your tacos!
4. Warm the Tortillas:
Next up, grab a hot skillet or grill. Lightly char the corn tortillas on it until they’re soft and slightly crispy, usually just a minute on each side. Keeping them warm ensures they are easy to fold and won’t break easily.
5. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time for the fun part! On each warmed tortilla, add a few slices of the corned beef. Follow that with some avocado slices, shredded purple cabbage, and the pickled red onions.
6. Add the Toppings:
Drizzle your spicy mayo sauce generously over the tacos, then sprinkle with fresh cilantro and crumbled queso fresco. These toppings make it colorful and extra tasty!
7. Serve:
Plate your delicious corned beef tacos and serve them with lime wedges on the side. Before eating, squeeze some lime juice over the top for that extra zing!
Enjoy your flavorful corned beef tacos! It’s a fun twist on traditional tacos that you and your family will love!
Can I Use Leftover Corned Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover corned beef is perfect for these tacos. Just slice it thinly and proceed with the assembly as detailed in the recipe for a quick and delicious meal.
Can I Substitute the Corn Tortillas?
Yes, if you can’t find corn tortillas, flour tortillas work well too! Alternatively, for a low-carb option, you can use lettuce wraps, which adds a refreshing crunch.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the beef gently and briefly in a skillet, then assemble fresh tacos with the toppings.
What Else Can I Add to the Tacos?
Feel free to customize your tacos! Add ingredients like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce for extra flavor. You can also try different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a spicy kick!