Wagyu Beef Tacos from Nobu feature tender, marbled Wagyu beef seasoned with bold spices, topped with fresh cilantro and finely diced onions, all nestled in soft, warm corn tortillas for a luxurious, savory taco experience.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Grill pan or skillet
- Tongs
- Small saucepan (optional, for warming tortillas)
- Serving platter
- Aluminum foil (for keeping tortillas warm)
- Spoon (for toppings)
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) Wagyu beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 6 small corn tortillas
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup white onion, finely diced
- Lime wedges (optional)
Wagyu beef is the star ingredient and should be carefully seasoned with a balanced blend of sea salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder to enhance its rich, marbled flavor. Using soft, warm corn tortillas helps maintain the authentic texture and flavor of Nobu's signature tacos. Fresh cilantro and finely diced white onion add a burst of freshness and crunch that complements the savory beef. When grilling, use a grill pan or skillet to achieve a perfect sear without overcooking the delicate meat. Your copycat Wagyu Beef Tacos from Nobu will capture the luxurious, savory taste by following these ingredient and preparation tips precisely.
Instructions
- Place Wagyu beef on cutting board; use chef’s knife to slice into thin strips or small cubes.
- In mixing bowl, combine olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder; whisk together.
- Add beef to spice mixture; toss until well coated.
- Preheat grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear Wagyu beef for 1–2 minutes per side, using tongs; cook until just browned (do not overcook).
- Transfer cooked beef to a plate; cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Warm corn tortillas in a dry skillet or small saucepan for 20–30 seconds per side; keep warm wrapped in foil.
- Place tortillas on serving platter.
- Divide cooked Wagyu beef evenly among tortillas using spoon.
- Top each taco with chopped cilantro and finely diced white onion.
- Garnish with lime wedges if desired.
Substitution
Wagyu Beef Tacos from Nobu copycat menu offer a rich and flavorful twist on traditional tacos, featuring premium marbled Wagyu beef seasoned with aromatic spices and paired with fresh cilantro and onions in soft corn tortillas. If Wagyu beef is unavailable, you can substitute with high-quality ribeye or sirloin steak for a similar tender and juicy texture. Corn tortillas can be swapped for flour tortillas if preferred, though the authentic corn flavor is a key part of the dish's character. Warming the tortillas in a small saucepan or wrapped in aluminum foil helps maintain their softness and prevents cracking during assembly. Your choice of toppings like cilantro and diced onions can be customized with other fresh herbs or pickled vegetables for added zest.
Tips
Use a sharp chef's knife to cut the Wagyu beef into uniform thin strips or small cubes to ensure even cooking. Keep the grill pan or skillet at medium-high heat to quickly sear the beef, preserving its tenderness and preventing dryness. Avoid overcooking the Wagyu; cooking for just 1-2 minutes per side will maintain its marbled texture and rich flavor. Warm your corn tortillas briefly and keep them wrapped in foil to stay soft and pliable for assembling tacos.
Nutritions
Wagyu beef in these tacos provides a rich source of high-quality protein and essential amino acids, supporting muscle repair and growth. The marbling in Wagyu beef delivers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help maintain cardiovascular health when consumed in moderation. Corn tortillas add dietary fiber and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, while fresh cilantro and onions contribute antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin C and potassium. Your meal balances indulgent flavors with important nutrients for a satisfying and nourishing taco experience.
Storage
Store leftover Wagyu beef promptly in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours to maintain freshness and safety. Keep corn tortillas wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Reheat the beef gently in a skillet over low heat to retain tenderness, and warm tortillas separately before serving your tacos again.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap Wagyu beef for skirt steak or ribeye if Wagyu is unavailable; these cuts offer rich flavors and good marbling. For a smoky twist, cook the beef on a charcoal grill instead of a grill pan to infuse authentic charred notes. You can replace corn tortillas with flour tortillas for a softer texture that holds fillings well. Your toppings can be varied by adding pickled jalapenos or a drizzle of crema to enhance the taco's flavor profile.
Allergies
Wagyu Beef Tacos from Nobu may trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to beef or spices such as chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Corn tortillas could cause issues for those with corn allergies, while onion and garlic powders might affect people with allium sensitivities. Your awareness of these ingredients helps prevent potential allergic responses when enjoying this flavorful dish.
Why this recipe?
Wagyu Beef Tacos from Nobu restaurant are beloved for their rich marbling and tender texture, delivering an unparalleled melt-in-your-mouth experience. The fusion of premium Wagyu beef with authentic Japanese spices and fresh taco ingredients creates a unique flavor profile that stands out in the culinary world. You'll appreciate the balance of umami and subtle sweetness that makes every bite memorable and indulgent. Recreating this dish at home is worth it because it allows you to enjoy an exclusive gourmet experience using top-quality ingredients tailored to your taste.