Description
Speedy Smash Dumpling Tacos are a delightful fusion dish combining the flavors of Asian dumplings with the convenience of tacos. Ground meat seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil is smashed thinly onto tortillas and pan-fried until crispy and golden. Topped with fresh shredded cabbage, green onions, and a drizzle of hoisin sauce or chili crisp, these tacos offer a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and crunchy textures, making them an ideal quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef or ground pork
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Tacos & Garnishes
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 2 tablespoons chili crisp or sriracha (optional)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce or dipping sauce of choice
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef or pork with soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, cornstarch, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, ensuring the flavors meld together.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small drizzle of vegetable oil to prevent sticking and help crisp the tortillas and meat.
- Assemble and Cook Tacos: Lay one tortilla flat in the hot skillet. Immediately press about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture onto the tortilla, spreading it thinly and evenly to cover most of the surface. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the meat is browned and crispy at the edges.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the tortilla with the meat side down, cooking the other side for 1 to 2 minutes until the tortilla turns golden brown and crisp. Remove from skillet and set aside. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and meat mixture, adding oil as needed.
- Assemble the Tacos: Once all smash dumpling tacos are cooked, top each with shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix, sliced green onions, a drizzle of hoisin sauce and/or chili crisp or sriracha if you like heat, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve Warm: Serve the tacos immediately while warm and crispy, allowing everyone to enjoy the blend of crispy meat, fresh toppings, and spicy-sweet sauces.
Notes
- For a leaner alternative, substitute ground beef or pork with ground chicken or turkey.
- Serve with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a splash of sesame oil for added flavor.
- Vegetarian option: use smashed tofu mixed with the same seasoning blend instead of meat.
- Adjust the amount of chili crisp or sriracha based on your spice preference.
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas if you prefer gluten-free tacos.
