If you love the bold flavors of Korean cuisine and the satisfying convenience of a burrito, you are going to fall head over heels for this Korean BBQ Burrito Recipe. This dish brilliantly combines tender, slow-cooked Korean BBQ beef with fluffy rice, tangy kimchi, fresh herbs, and a creamy yum yum sauce, all wrapped up in a soft flour tortilla. Each bite bursts with a fun fusion of flavors and textures, making it a perfect meal for any day when you’re craving something extraordinary yet comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Korean BBQ Burrito Recipe comes together from a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays its part in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this fusion dish truly unforgettable.
- Top sirloin (2 lbs): The star protein that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender with slow cooking.
- Pears (2, peeled and chunked): Natural sweeteners that also help tenderize the beef beautifully.
- Fresh ginger (2-inch knob): Adds a warm, spicy aroma essential for authentic Korean BBQ flavor.
- Garlic cloves (4): Brings that irresistible pungency that complements the beef perfectly.
- Soy sauce (1/4 cup): Provides savory depth and saltiness to balance the sweetness.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Enhances caramelization and rounds out the marinade’s taste.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Delivers a nutty richness that elevates the entire dish.
- Cooked rice: Acts as a fluffy, neutral base that soaks up flavors.
- Fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, green onions, and optional mint: Brighten the burrito and add delightful freshness.
- Kimchi: Tangy, spicy fermented cabbage that adds a zesty kick and crunch.
- Sriracha mayo or yum yum sauce: Creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet toppings that tie everything together.
- Large flour tortillas: Soft and pliable wraps that cradle all the delicious fillings.
How to Make Korean BBQ Burrito Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Korean BBQ Beef
The secret to the best Korean BBQ Beef starts with thinly slicing the top sirloin and creating a fragrant marinade. Pulse the pears, garlic, and ginger in a food processor until they form a rough puree. This mixture not only flavors the beef but also tenderizes it wonderfully during slow cooking. Combine the pureed mixture with soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil in a slow cooker along with the beef slices. Cook on high for 3 to 5 hours until the meat is incredibly tender and infused with all those deep, complex flavors.
Step 2: Prep Your Burrito Fillings
While the beef cooks, get your rice ready by cooking it until fluffy. Chop or mince your fresh herbs — cilantro, basil, green onions, and even mint if you’re feeling adventurous — to add vibrant color and fresh notes in every bite. Set aside some crisp and spicy kimchi for that essential contrast of texture and zing. Keep your yum yum sauce or sriracha mayo close; we’ll be slathering on the perfect finishing touch soon.
Step 3: Assemble the Korean BBQ Burrito
Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a piece of foil to make rolling easier. Start by spooning a generous layer of cooked rice in the center. Add a hearty portion of that tender Korean BBQ beef right on top, followed by a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a good helping of kimchi. Drizzle sriracha mayo or yum yum sauce over the fillings. Fold the sides of the tortilla up and roll it from front to back, making sure to wrap it tightly. If you’re saving some burritos for later, wrap each one tightly in foil — they freeze beautifully and reheat like a dream.
How to Serve Korean BBQ Burrito Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten the serving platter with extra fresh herbs and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. A wedge of lime or a small bowl of additional kimchi on the side adds a burst of freshness and acidity that complements the beef beautifully. Don’t forget a little drizzle of more yum yum sauce to invite messy, delightful bites!
Side Dishes
This Korean BBQ Burrito Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like pickled cucumbers or a crisp Asian slaw to add crunch and vibrancy. Fried or steamed dumplings offer a delicious extra bite, while a chilled glass of iced green tea or Korean barley tea balances out the richness with its refreshing qualities.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive spin, slice the burritos into pinwheels to create colorful appetizer platters perfect for sharing. Wrap each burrito in parchment paper tied with twine for rustic individual servings at casual gatherings. If you’re feeling extra creative, serve burrito bowls featuring all the same ingredients layered beautifully in a bowl for those days when rolling feels like too much work.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Korean BBQ Burritos can be wrapped individually in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To keep the crispness of the kimchi and herbs, store them separately and add just before reheating or serving for maximum freshness.
Freezing
These burritos are perfect for meal prepping! Wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze in a single layer. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing their incredible flavor or texture, making them a lifesaver for busy days.
Reheating
For best results, thaw frozen burritos overnight in the fridge before reheating. Heat them wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow a little more time. Microwaving is faster but might make the tortilla a bit softer, so keep an eye on that if texture matters to you.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this Korean BBQ Burrito Recipe?
Absolutely! While top sirloin works wonderfully, you can also use ribeye, flank steak, or even brisket. Just make sure to thinly slice the meat and adjust cooking times as needed to achieve that tender texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes! You can cook the beef in a heavy skillet or a Dutch oven on low heat for a longer time, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, braising the beef in a covered pan with the marinade will work, though the meat may take longer to become tender.
Can I substitute kimchi if I don’t like fermented foods?
Definitely! If kimchi is not your thing, try using pickled vegetables like carrots or cucumber pickles to add tang and crunch. They won’t provide the exact flavor but will maintain that vital contrast in the burrito.
What’s the difference between yum yum sauce and sriracha mayo?
Yum yum sauce is typically a sweet, tangy, and creamy sauce often used in Japanese steakhouses, while sriracha mayo is simply mayonnaise mixed with spicy sriracha sauce. Both work beautifully, so feel free to use whichever suits your taste buds!
Can I make these burritos vegetarian or vegan?
For a plant-based twist, swap out the beef for marinated tofu, tempeh, or jackfruit cooked in the Korean BBQ sauce. Use vegan mayo or a spicy sauce of choice and make sure your kimchi doesn’t contain fish sauce to keep it fully vegan.
Final Thoughts
Once you make this Korean BBQ Burrito Recipe, it’s bound to become one of your kitchen favorites—trust me! The blend of tender, flavorful beef, fresh herbs, tangy kimchi, and creamy sauce all wrapped up in a warm tortilla is pure comfort with a delicious twist. Whether you want to impress friends or just treat yourself, these burritos promise a mouthwatering experience each time. Go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this fun fusion feast—you won’t regret a single bite!
Print
Korean BBQ Burrito Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: About 5 burritos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Fusion (Korean-American)
Description
Korean BBQ Burrito combines tender, slow-cooked Korean BBQ beef with fragrant rice, fresh herbs, tangy kimchi, and spicy yum yum sauce, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla for a delicious fusion meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Korean BBQ Beef
- 2 lbs. top sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 pears, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2-inch knob of ginger, peeled
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For the Burritos
- Cooked rice, as needed
- Cilantro, chopped, to taste
- Basil, chopped, to taste
- Green onions, sliced, to taste
- Mint (optional), chopped, to taste
- Kimchi, to taste
- Sriracha mayo or yum yum sauce, to taste
- Large flour tortillas
Instructions
- Prepare Korean BBQ Beef: Thinly slice the top sirloin beef. In a food processor, pulse the pears, garlic, and ginger until finely blended. Combine the pear mixture, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and sliced beef in a slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 3 to 5 hours until the beef is very tender and flavorful.
- Prep Burrito Fillings: While the beef cooks, prepare the cooked rice and chop the cilantro, basil, green onions, and optional mint. Also have the kimchi and your preferred sauce (sriracha mayo or yum yum sauce) ready for assembly.
- Assemble the Burritos: Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a piece of foil. In the center, place a generous spoonful of cooked rice, a portion of the cooked Korean BBQ beef, chopped herbs, kimchi, and drizzle with sauce. Fold the sides of the tortilla up and roll it tightly from front to back.
- Store or Serve: For later use, wrap the burrito tightly with the foil and freeze. Otherwise, enjoy your Korean BBQ burrito immediately while warm.
Notes
- The pears in the beef marinade act as natural tenderizers, so don’t skip them.
- You can adjust the amount of kimchi and sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- Freezing the prepared burritos makes for convenient future meals; just reheat wrapped in foil or in a microwave-safe dish.
- Optional herbs like mint add freshness, but cilantro and basil are essential for authentic flavor balance.
- Use slow cooker liners for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking if desired.