# Components:
→ Proteins
01 - 14 oz beef sirloin or chicken thighs, thinly sliced (alternatively firm tofu for vegetarian)
02 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
03 - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
04 - 1 tablespoon brown sugar
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 teaspoon grated ginger
07 - 1 teaspoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
→ Ube Crema
08 - 1/3 cup cooked ube (purple yam) or ube halaya (substitute with sweet potato if needed)
09 - 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (use coconut yogurt for vegan)
10 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
11 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
12 - Pinch of salt
→ Toppings
13 - 1 cup kimchi, chopped
14 - 1 cup shredded cabbage (red or green)
15 - 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
16 - 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
17 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
18 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
19 - 1/4 cup pickled red onions
→ Base
20 - 8 small corn or flour tortillas (soft taco size)
21 - 2 1/2 cups cooked jasmine or sushi rice (for bowls)
# Directions:
01 - Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and gochujang in a mixing bowl. Add sliced beef, chicken, or tofu. Toss thoroughly to ensure even coating and allow to marinate for 15 to 20 minutes.
02 - In a blender or food processor, combine cooked ube, sour cream or yogurt, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt. Process until mixture is completely smooth and vibrant in color. Refrigerate until needed.
03 - Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high. Add the marinated protein and cook for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the protein is browned and thoroughly cooked. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
04 - Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft. If using rice, gently fluff the cooked jasmine or sushi rice to prevent clumping.
05 - To assemble tacos, spread a generous layer of ube crema over each tortilla. Top with desired amount of cooked protein, kimchi, cabbage, cucumber, jalapeño, cilantro, sesame seeds, and pickled red onions. For bowls, layer rice in the base of the bowl, add toppings, and finish with a drizzle of ube crema.
06 - Present immediately, allowing guests to build tacos or bowls to their preference with the assorted toppings and sauces.