18 Spicy Kogi Taco Recipes with a Twist

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April 9, 2025

Get ready to spice up your taco game with these 18 mouth-watering Spicy Kogi Taco Recipes! Inspired by the bold flavors of Korean cuisine, these unique and delicious tacos are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From classic beef and pork options to innovative vegetarian and vegan choices, there’s something for everyone in this lineup.

In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the bold flavors and spices that define Kogi-style tacos. With recipes ranging from spicy Korean BBQ beef to crispy tofu with sriracha mayo, you’re sure to find a taco (or three) that will become your new favorite.

Spicy Korean BBQ Beef Kogi Tacos

Spicy Korean BBQ Beef Kogi Tacos
Spicy Korean BBQ Beef Kogi Tacos: A fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors, these tacos pack a punch with spicy beef short ribs, crunchy kimchi slaw, and creamy cilantro-lime crema.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Kimchi slaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Cilantro-lime crema (store-bought or homemade)
– Sliced green onions, cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. Add beef short ribs and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or broil beef for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized and tender.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled beef, kimchi slaw, cilantro-lime crema, green onions, cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Kimchi and Pork Belly Kogi Tacos

Kimchi and Pork Belly Kogi Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Korean cuisine in these addictive tacos! Spicy kimchi, tender pork belly, and crispy taco shells come together for a truly unforgettable meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork belly and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon water. Pour the mixture over the pork belly and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the meat is tender.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing a few slices of the pork belly onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a spoonful of kimchi and a sprinkle of cilantro.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Gochujang Glazed Chicken Kogi Tacos

Gochujang Glazed Chicken Kogi Tacos
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean gochujang with the vibrant spirit of Mexican cuisine to create a unique and mouth-watering taco experience.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons gochujang
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup water
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken breasts in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Glaze chicken with reserved marinade during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
7. Assemble tacos with glazed chicken, radishes, cilantro, and lime wedges.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Bulgogi-Style Mushroom Kogi Tacos

Bulgogi-Style Mushroom Kogi Tacos
This recipe combines the savory flavors of Korean bulgogi with the comfort of a taco, featuring tender mushrooms and crispy kimchi slaw. Perfect for a unique dinner or game-day gathering!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Kimchi slaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: cilantro, green onions, and sriracha for topping

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, combine mushrooms, Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are tender and caramelized (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by placing mushroom mixture onto tortillas, topping with kimchi slaw, and adding desired toppings.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Crispy Tofu Kogi Tacos with Sriracha Mayo

Crispy Tofu Kogi Tacos with Sriracha Mayo
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and crispy tofu recipe, infused with the bold flavors of Korean chili flakes. A tangy sriracha mayo adds a creamy contrast to this addictive dish.

Ingredients:
• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil, divided
• 8-10 corn tortillas
• Sriracha mayo (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together cornstarch, flour, Korean chili flakes, salt, and black pepper.
2. Toss tofu cubes with the dry mixture until evenly coated.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook tofu for 5-7 minutes or until crispy and golden brown, flipping halfway.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing crispy tofu on a tortilla, drizzling with sriracha mayo, and finishing with your favorite toppings.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Caramelized Onion and Short Rib Kogi Tacos

Caramelized Onion and Short Rib Kogi Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Korean-inspired tacos with tender short ribs, sweet caramelized onions, and a hint of spice.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced green onions, cilantro, and kimchi (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown short ribs on all sides; remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low; add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Add Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water to the pot. Stir to combine; return short ribs to the pot.
5. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with braised short ribs, caramelized onions, and desired toppings.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (braising time) + 10 minutes (assembling)

Spicy Cucumber Slaw Kogi Tacos

Spicy Cucumber Slaw Kogi Tacos
Add a refreshing twist to your tacos with this spicy cucumber slaw recipe! Perfect for warm weather, it’s a light and zesty topping that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of Korean-inspired kogi tacos.

Ingredients:

– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt, to taste
– For serving: kogi tacos, tortillas, kimchi, pickled daikon radish, etc.

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices and Korean chili flakes.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the cucumbers and toss to coat.
3. Add honey and toss until well combined.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a topping for kogi tacos.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparation time only)

Sesame Ginger Shrimp Kogi Tacos

Sesame Ginger Shrimp Kogi Tacos
This Korean-Mexican fusion recipe combines the flavors of sesame, ginger, and shrimp with a crispy taco shell for a unique and delicious twist on traditional tacos.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce, and honey.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked shrimp onto a warmed tortilla, followed by your choice of toppings.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Korean Fried Cauliflower Kogi Tacos

Korean Fried Cauliflower Kogi Tacos
Transform classic tacos into a bold fusion of Korean flavors with this recipe for crispy Korean fried cauliflower kogi tacos. Spicy Gochujang sauce and crunchy kimchi slaw add depth and excitement to each bite.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Kimchi slaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Sliced green onions, cilantro, and crispy bacon for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, and Korean chili flakes.
2. Dredge cauliflower florets in the mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry in hot oil until golden and crispy (5-7 minutes).
4. Drain and toss with soy sauce, Gochujang sauce, and honey.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing fried cauliflower on a tortilla, topping with kimchi slaw, and garnishing with green onions, cilantro, and crispy bacon.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Galbi-Marinated Flank Steak Kogi Tacos

Galbi-Marinated Flank Steak Kogi Tacos
A Korean-inspired twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the bold flavors of galbi marinade with the tender texture of flank steak. Perfect for a flavorful and exotic dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb flank steak
– 1/2 cup galbi marinade (see below)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– Lime wedges, for serving

Galbi Marinade:

– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together galbi marinade ingredients.
2. Add the flank steak and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove steak from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Slice steak thinly against the grain.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with sliced steak, kimchi, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Pickled Radish and Pork Kogi Tacos

Pickled Radish and Pork Kogi Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this bold fusion of Korean-inspired pork kogi and tangy pickled radish. This recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork with the crunch and zing of pickled radish, all wrapped up in a crispy corn tortilla.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 8 radishes, thinly sliced
– 1 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: cilantro, lime wedges, kimchi slaw

Instructions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Cook on low for 8 hours.
2. Meanwhile, prepare pickled radish by combining sliced radishes with vinegar, water, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Shred cooked pork into bite-sized pieces.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning pork onto tortillas, topping with pickled radish, and adding desired toppings.

Cook Time: 8 hours (slow cooker) + 30 minutes (pickling time)

Spicy Pineapple Pork Kogi Tacos

Spicy Pineapple Pork Kogi Tacos
Get ready for a flavorful fusion of Korean-inspired BBQ and tropical twist with these Spicy Pineapple Pork Kogi Tacos!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pork shoulder, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp pineapple juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pineapple chunks, cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic powder, and cumin.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing pork onto tortillas, followed by pineapple chunks, cilantro, and lime wedges.

Cooking Time: 2 hours (marinating) + 10-12 minutes (grilling)

Jalapeño Lime Beef Kogi Tacos

Jalapeño Lime Beef Kogi Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco game with these bold and flavorful Jalapeño Lime Beef Kogi Tacos! This recipe combines the richness of beef, the brightness of lime juice, and the heat of jalapeños for a truly unique flavor experience.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef short ribs or flank steak
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced onion, cilantro, sour cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chopped jalapeños and beef to the marinade; toss to coat.
4. Grill beef for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with sliced beef, diced onion (if using), and cilantro (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Korean-Style Pulled Pork Kogi Tacos

Korean-Style Pulled Pork Kogi Tacos
Korean-Style Pulled Pork Kogi Tacos Recipe

Experience the bold flavors of Korea and Mexico with this unique taco recipe, featuring tender pulled pork, spicy gochujang sauce, and crispy kimchi slaw.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Gochujang sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Kimchi slaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chili flakes, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid.
5. Cover and braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in some gochujang sauce to coat.
7. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
8. Assemble tacos by spooning pulled pork onto a tortilla, topping with kimchi slaw, and serving with lime wedges.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (braising time) + 10 minutes (assembly)

Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon Kogi Tacos

Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon Kogi Tacos
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean BBQ with the comfort of a taco, featuring sweet and spicy glazed salmon as the star. Perfect for a unique dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ginger, grated
– 8 corn tortillas
– Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing glazed salmon on a tortilla, garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Charred Corn and Gochugaru Kogi Tacos

Charred Corn and Gochugaru Kogi Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this unique fusion recipe that combines the sweetness of charred corn with the bold heat of gochugaru, a Korean chili flake. This flavorful and easy-to-make dish is perfect for adventurous foodies.

Ingredients:

– 4 ears of corn, husked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and crumbled cotija cheese for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush corn with olive oil and season with gochugaru. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
3. Cut grilled corn off the cob and mix with lime juice, cilantro, and salt.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning corn mixture onto tortillas and topping with radishes, lime wedges, and cotija cheese.

Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Korean BBQ Tempeh Kogi Tacos

Korean BBQ Tempeh Kogi Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this innovative fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors, featuring crispy tempeh “kogi” instead of traditional beef.

Ingredients:

– 1 package tempeh
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Kimchi slaw (store-bought or homemade), for serving
– Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut tempeh into small pieces and marinate in a mixture of Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil for at least 30 minutes.
3. Bake tempeh for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing marinated tempeh onto a warmed tortilla, topping with kimchi slaw, and garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds.

Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes

Spicy Mango Salsa Kogi Tacos

Spicy Mango Salsa Kogi Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this sweet and spicy fusion of Korean-Mexican flavors! These Spicy Mango Salsa Kogi Tacos are the perfect combination of bold flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: cilantro, diced avocado, crumbled queso fresco

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, soy sauce, lime juice, Gochujang, and cumin.
2. Mix well to combine.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning salsa onto a warmed tortilla, followed by desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately.

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Summary

Get ready to spice up your taco game with these 18 mouth-watering Kogi Taco recipes! Inspired by Korean flavors, each dish adds a unique twist to traditional tacos. From Spicy Korean BBQ Beef to Caramelized Onion and Short Rib, there’s something for everyone. With ingredients like gochujang, kimchi, and bulgogi-style mushrooms, these tacos are sure to ignite your taste buds. Try the Crispy Tofu with Sriracha Mayo or the Sweet and Spicy Glazed Salmon for a flavor adventure like no other. Dive into this article to discover the perfect recipe to spice up your meal!

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