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If you're looking to spice up your taco night, these six smoky BBQ taco recipes are just what you need. Each one brings a unique flavor twist that'll keep your taste buds intrigued. From rich brisket to zesty shrimp, there's something for everyone. Ready to discover which recipe might become your new favorite? Let's explore the delicious options that promise to transform your meals.
Key Takeaways
- Try Smoked Brisket Tacos with chipotle cream for a savory and spicy flavor combination perfect for gatherings.
- Enjoy BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos topped with fresh pineapple salsa for a delightful mix of smoky and bright flavors.
- Grilled Chicken Tacos with avocado lime dressing offer a protein-packed, easy-to-make option ideal for quick lunches.
- Spicy BBQ Shrimp Tacos feature marinated shrimp with a fresh cabbage slaw, perfect for summer cookouts.
- Smoky Jackfruit Tacos serve as a delicious vegan alternative with pulled pork texture, great for BBQs and taco nights.
Smoked Brisket Tacos With Chipotle Cream
Smoked brisket tacos with chipotle cream are a delicious fusion of smoky, savory flavors and creamy, spicy accents. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, where friends and family can indulge in the rich, tender brisket nestled in soft tortillas. The chipotle cream adds a spicy kick that complements the brisket beautifully, making every bite an explosion of flavor.
To achieve the best results, it's crucial to use a well-seasoned brisket and allow it to smoke low and slow. This process transforms the meat into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The chipotle cream is simple to make and can be adjusted to suit your preferred level of spice. Serve these tacos with your favorite toppings, like fresh cilantro, diced onions, or pickled jalapeños, to elevate the experience even further.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs brisket
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a spice rub. Generously coat the brisket with the spice rub, ensuring an even application.
- Place the brisket in the smoker and add wood chips of your choice for smoke flavor. Smoke the brisket for about 1.5 to 2 hours per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C).
- While the brisket is smoking, prepare the chipotle cream. In a blender, combine the sour cream, chipotle peppers, and lime juice. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt or additional lime juice if desired.
- Once the brisket is done, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Warm the tortillas on a grill or stovetop, then fill them with sliced brisket and drizzle with the chipotle cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor and texture, consider using a wood like hickory or mesquite for smoking the brisket. These woods provide a robust flavor that pairs well with the richness of the meat.
Additionally, let the brisket rest properly to retain its juices, ensuring that your tacos are juicy and flavorful. You can also customize the toppings to your preference, adding avocado, lime wedges, or even a fresh salsa for an extra burst of freshness.
BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos With Pineapple Salsa
BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the smoky, savory flavors of pulled pork with the bright and invigorating taste of pineapple salsa. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner.
The tender, juicy pork is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, while the tangy salsa adds a burst of flavor that complements the richness of the meat.
To elevate your tacos further, you can serve them with warm corn tortillas and your favorite toppings, such as avocado, cilantro, or lime wedges. This dish isn't only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking.
Get ready to enjoy a flavor-packed meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ripe pineapple, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Corn tortillas
- Optional toppings: avocado, lime wedges, additional cilantro
Cooking Instructions:
1. Start by seasoning the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker and pour the BBQ sauce over it. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and mix it with the remaining BBQ sauce in the slow cooker.
2. While the pork is cooking, prepare the pineapple salsa by combining diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
To assemble the tacos, warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave, then fill each tortilla with a generous amount of pulled pork and top with the pineapple salsa.
Extra Tips:
For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce to your pineapple salsa.
If you're looking for a smokier flavor, you can also finish the pulled pork on the grill for a few minutes after shredding for that perfect char.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces or toppings to make these tacos your own! Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
Grilled Chicken Tacos With Avocado Lime Dressing
Grilled chicken tacos are a delightful and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week. These tacos aren't only easy to prepare but also packed with protein, making them a perfect option for a quick lunch or dinner. The addition of avocado lime dressing adds a creamy and zesty touch that elevates the entire meal, bringing together the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the freshness of avocado and lime.
To make these grilled chicken tacos even more enjoyable, consider adding your favorite toppings such as diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a favorite for both family dinners and casual gatherings.
Serve the tacos with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 avocado
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts to guarantee they're well coated.
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
While the chicken is resting, prepare the avocado lime dressing by blending the avocado, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, and a pinch of salt together until smooth and creamy.
Warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side. To assemble the tacos, place some grilled chicken strips on a tortilla, drizzle with avocado lime dressing, and top with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Extra Tips:
For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight before grilling. This will enhance the taste and tenderness of the chicken.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with other toppings like diced onions, jalapeños, or even a squeeze of extra lime juice for added brightness. Enjoy your grilled chicken tacos!
Spicy BBQ Shrimp Tacos With Cabbage Slaw
Spicy BBQ shrimp tacos are a delicious and vibrant dish that brings together the smoky flavors of barbecue sauce and the fresh crunch of cabbage slaw. These tacos are perfect for a summer cookout or a casual dinner, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes. The shrimp is marinated in a zesty barbecue sauce, grilled to perfection, and served in warm tortillas topped with a revitalizing slaw.
It's an easy yet impressive meal that will surely become a favorite in your household. Making these tacos isn't only straightforward but also allows for customization. Feel free to adjust the spice level of the barbecue sauce to suit your taste, and experiment with different toppings like avocado, cilantro, or lime for added flavor.
Whether you're serving them at a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these spicy BBQ shrimp tacos with cabbage slaw are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, BBQ sauce, olive oil, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them.
While the shrimp are grilling, prepare the cabbage slaw by mixing the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a separate bowl. Toss until everything is well combined.
To assemble the tacos, warm the tortillas on the grill for a few seconds on each side. Place a few shrimp on each tortilla, top with the cabbage slaw, and serve immediately with additional lime wedges if desired.
Extra Tips:
When cooking shrimp, be mindful of the cooking time; they cook very quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use a sweeter BBQ sauce and reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
Additionally, preparing the slaw ahead of time allows the flavors to develop, making it even tastier when it's time to serve the tacos. Enjoy your delicious and spicy BBQ shrimp tacos with a side of salsa or chips for a complete meal!
Smoky Jackfruit Tacos for a Vegan Delight
Smoky Jackfruit Tacos are a delightful vegan alternative that will satisfy even the most devoted meat lovers. This dish takes advantage of the unique texture and flavor of jackfruit, which, when cooked properly, mimics the essence of pulled pork. The addition of smoky spices and a zesty BBQ sauce infuses the jackfruit with a rich taste that pairs perfectly with fresh toppings and warm tortillas.
These tacos aren't only easy to prepare but also provide a wholesome meal that's packed with flavor. Whether you're hosting a BBQ or simply craving a delicious taco night, these Smoky Jackfruit Tacos are sure to impress. Serve them with a side of coleslaw or grilled veggies for a complete meal that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 can young green jackfruit in water or brine
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (vegan-friendly)
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sliced avocado (optional)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by draining and rinsing the jackfruit thoroughly, then chop it into smaller pieces, removing any hard seeds.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Add the jackfruit to the skillet and mix well to coat it with the spices. Pour in the BBQ sauce and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the jackfruit is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
While the jackfruit is cooking, warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or directly over a flame until pliable. Once the jackfruit is ready, assemble the tacos by spooning the smoky jackfruit onto the tortillas, garnishing with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your Smoky Jackfruit Tacos, consider marinating the jackfruit in the BBQ sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking; this will deepen the flavor even more.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, pickled onions, or vegan sour cream, to personalize your tacos. If you want more crunch, adding some shredded cabbage or radishes can give your dish an extra layer of texture.
Enjoy your delicious vegan feast!
BBQ Beef Short Rib Tacos With Cilantro Chimichurri
BBQ Beef Short Rib Tacos with Cilantro Chimichurri are a delicious twist on traditional tacos, combining the rich, smoky flavors of slow-cooked beef short ribs with the vibrancy of a lively chimichurri sauce. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, these tacos are sure to impress.
The tender beef is complemented by warm tortillas and topped with a zesty cilantro chimichurri that adds a burst of flavor to each bite. To achieve the ideal texture and taste, it's essential to cook the short ribs low and slow, allowing the fat to render and the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Assembling the tacos is a breeze, making this dish not only mouthwatering but also easy to prepare. Gather your ingredients and get ready for a taco experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef short ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the beef short ribs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sear the short ribs in the pot until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the ribs and set aside.
Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze, then return the short ribs to the pot. Cover with a lid and place in the preheated oven, cooking for about 3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
While the beef is cooking, prepare the cilantro chimichurri. In a bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, parsley, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
Once the short ribs are done, remove them from the pot and let them rest for a few minutes. Shred the meat using two forks, discarding any bones and excess fat.
To assemble your tacos, warm the corn tortillas and fill each with a generous amount of shredded beef. Top with cilantro chimichurri and enjoy!
Extra Tips:
For an added layer of flavor, consider marinating the beef short ribs in the spices overnight before cooking. This will enhance the taste and tenderness of the meat.
Additionally, feel free to customize your tacos with toppings like diced onions, avocado slices, or crumbled queso fresco for an extra kick. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a revitalizing squeeze that brightens up the dish!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Store-Bought BBQ Sauce for These Recipes?
Absolutely, you can use store-bought BBQ sauce for these recipes! It'll save you time and still deliver great flavor. Just choose one that matches your taste preferences, and you're good to go!
How Can I Make My Tacos Gluten-Free?
To make your tacos gluten-free, choose corn tortillas instead of flour ones. Confirm your fillings, sauces, and toppings are also gluten-free, and always double-check labels for hidden gluten ingredients. Enjoy your delicious, worry-free tacos!
What Side Dishes Pair Well With BBQ Tacos?
When you're serving BBQ tacos, consider pairing them with coleslaw, grilled corn, or potato salad. These sides complement the flavors perfectly, adding crunch and creaminess that enhance your meal's overall experience. Enjoy the balance!
Can I Prepare the Taco Fillings in Advance?
Absolutely, you can prepare taco fillings in advance! In fact, around 70% of home cooks find prepping ingredients ahead saves time, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals without the last-minute rush. It's a game-changer!
What Drinks Complement Smoky BBQ Tacos Best?
To complement smoky BBQ tacos, you can't go wrong with a revitalizing iced tea, a tangy lemonade, or a cold beer. Each drink enhances the flavors, making your meal even more enjoyable and memorable.
