Corned beef tacos are a fun twist on a classic favorite! They combine tender corned beef with fresh toppings all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Easy and tasty!
You might find yourself wanting seconds; they’re that good! I love piling on extra salsa and guacamole for that perfect bite. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef: This is the star of your tacos! Use pre-cooked corned beef for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, brisket can be slow-cooked and seasoned at home. You can also use shredded chicken or pulled pork if that’s what you have.
Corn Tortillas: These add authentic flavor, but flour tortillas work too if that’s what you prefer. For a healthier twist, try whole wheat tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Red Cabbage: This provides a colorful crunch. Green cabbage is a fine alternative, but red cabbage has better flavor and nutrients. Carrots or jicama can be used for a crisp texture as well.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or omit it entirely. A sprinkle of green onion can also offer a different yet tasty flavor.
How Do I Properly Warm the Tortillas?
Warming the tortillas is important for keeping them soft and flexible. It prevents them from cracking when filled. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet or griddle to medium.
- Brush both sides of each tortilla lightly with olive oil or butter.
- Place the tortilla in the skillet and warm for about 30 seconds on one side until it’s soft.
- Flip and warm for another 30 seconds. Look for some light char marks.
- Keep warm by wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel while you prepare the rest!
How to Make Corned Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb corned beef, cooked and shredded
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup white onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, such as queso fresco or Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for warming tortillas)
- Lime wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a little extra time for cooking the corned beef if needed. Most of this time is spent warming the tortillas and assembling your delicious tacos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corned Beef:
If your corned beef isn’t cooked, start by following the package instructions to cook it. Once it’s ready, shred it finely using forks. If it’s already pre-cooked, simply shred it and set it aside for later.
2. Season the Corned Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the shredded corned beef. Sprinkle in chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and warm for about 3-5 minutes, keeping it nice and hot. Once heated, take it off the heat.
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
Grab a skillet or griddle and heat it up over medium heat. Lightly brush each corn tortilla with olive oil or butter. Warm each side of the tortilla for about 30 seconds until they are soft and slightly charred. To keep them warm, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Place a generous amount of the seasoned corned beef on each tortilla. On top, add a good handful of sliced red cabbage and finely chopped white onion to give it that perfect crunch and flavor.
5. Add Garnishes:
Drizzle some sour cream or Mexican crema over each taco. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and, if you like, some shredded cheese too!
6. Serve:
It’s time to enjoy your tacos! Serve them with lime wedges on the side so everyone can squeeze fresh lime juice over their tacos just before taking a bite.
7. Optional:
If you want an extra kick, feel free to add your favorite salsa or hot sauce on the side for more flavor.
Enjoy your flavorful, tender Corned Beef Tacos with the refreshing crunch of cabbage and zesty lime!
Can I Use Leftover Corned Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover corned beef is perfect for these tacos. Just shred the already cooked beef and follow the seasoning steps as outlined.
What Do I Do If I Can’t Find Corn Tortillas?
If you can’t find corn tortillas, flour tortillas are a great alternative and will work well with the filling. For a gluten-free option, you might also use lettuce leaves as a wrap!
How Should I Store Any Leftovers?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the filling on the stovetop and then reheat the tortillas briefly before assembling again.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Of course! Feel free to customize your tacos with additional toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or your favorite salsa for more flavor and freshness.
