These corned beef tacos are a fun twist on your regular taco night! With tender, flavorful corned beef wrapped in soft tortillas, they’re sure to make your taste buds dance.
Top them off with your favorite fixings like cheese, salsa, and maybe a little guacamole. I can’t resist sneaking an extra taco or two! 🌮
These tacos are super easy to make. Just chop up the beef, warm the tortillas, and pile on the toppings. It’s a delicious way to use up leftover corned beef!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef: The star of this dish! You can use store-bought or homemade corned beef. If you’re looking for something lighter, pulled chicken or jackfruit can be a great substitute for a different twist.
Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are authentic for tacos, but you can use flour tortillas if needed. For a gluten-free option, check for corn tortillas labeled as gluten-free!
Cabbage: Red and green cabbage adds a colorful crunch. If you don’t have both, just use one type. You could also use coleslaw mix for simplicity or swap in some shredded carrots for added sweetness.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess. You can use Greek yogurt or avocado for a healthier alternative. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a vegan mayo or tahini instead.
How Do I Warm Tortillas Without Making Them Tough?
Warming tortillas is crucial for keeping them soft and pliable. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Avoid high heat to prevent burning.
- Place a tortilla in the skillet for about 30 seconds, then flip it over to warm the other side. You’re aiming for flexibility, not a crispy taco!
- If you like, brush both sides lightly with olive oil while warming for extra flavor.
Cover your warmed tortillas with a cloth to keep them warm until you’re ready to serve! This simple step goes a long way in making your tacos enjoyable.
How to Make Corned Beef Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 1 lb corned beef, thinly sliced or shredded
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Warming Tortillas:
- Olive oil or cooking spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes total. You’ll spend around 5 minutes preparing the creamy sauce, and then another 10 minutes to warm the tortillas and assemble everything. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lime juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth. Taste it and adjust the flavors if you need to. Set the sauce aside for later.
2. Warm the Tortillas:
Take a dry skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add each corn tortilla and warm it for about 30 seconds on each side until it’s flexible but not crispy. If you like, you can lightly brush the tortillas with olive oil to add more flavor.
3. Assemble the Tacos:
Once the tortillas are warm, lay them on a serving board or plate. Place a generous amount of corned beef on each tortilla so that it covers most of the surface. Then, add a mix of the finely shredded red cabbage, green cabbage, and chopped celery on top of the beef to give it a nice crunch and fresh taste.
4. Add the Sauce and Garnish:
Drizzle the creamy sauce you prepared earlier over each taco. Finish by sprinkling some fresh cilantro on top for added flavor and color.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your corned beef tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. You can also offer some additional sauce or salsa if you prefer. Enjoy your delicious and flavorful tacos!
Can I Use Leftover Corned Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover corned beef is perfect for these tacos. Just shred or slice it and warm it before assembling the tacos. This is a great way to use up leftovers!
Can I Make This Sauce Vegan?
Yes! You can replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based mayo or use blended silken tofu for a creamy texture. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings based on your taste!
What Can I Do If I Don’t Have Corn Tortillas?
If corn tortillas are unavailable, you can use small flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Just adjust the warming method accordingly—flour tortillas typically need less time in the skillet.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Corned beef and veggies will last for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm the beef gently on the stove or microwave, and assemble tacos fresh for the best texture!