Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe
Introduction
Thai Basil Beef Rolls bring vibrant Thai flavors into a fresh and easy-to-eat bite. These rolls combine savory ground beef with crisp vegetables and aromatic basil wrapped in delicate rice paper—perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- Fresh basil leaves
- Rice paper wrappers
Instructions
- Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with soy sauce and hoisin sauce until fully browned and cooked through.
- Step 2: Add the shredded carrots and chopped bell peppers to the skillet and cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Step 3: Soften the rice paper wrappers by dipping each one in warm water for about 10-15 seconds until pliable.
- Step 4: Place a portion of the beef mixture and a few fresh basil leaves on each softened wrapper, then carefully roll them up tightly to enclose the filling.
- Step 5: Serve the rolls immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as is for a fresh, flavorful snack.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic and a splash of lime juice to the beef mixture before cooking.
- Substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter protein option.
- Include thinly sliced cucumber or fresh mint leaves for added freshness.
- Serve with a side of sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce for dipping.
Storage
Thai Basil Beef Rolls are best served fresh. If you need to store them, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Rice paper can dry out quickly, so avoid storing the rolls for long periods. Reheat by steaming briefly, but note that fresh rolls are generally served cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the beef mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the beef and vegetables in advance and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. Assemble the rolls just before serving to keep the rice paper fresh and pliable.
What can I use if I can’t find rice paper wrappers?
If rice paper wrappers are unavailable, you can try using large lettuce leaves or thin spring roll wrappers as alternatives, though the texture will differ slightly from traditional Thai Basil Beef Rolls.
PrintThai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe
These Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a fresh and flavorful appetizer featuring tender ground beef seasoned with soy and hoisin sauce, combined with crisp vegetables and fresh basil, all wrapped in soft rice paper. Perfect for a light snack or party platter, they offer an authentic taste of Thai cuisine with a simple preparation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 rolls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- Fresh basil leaves (about 20-30 leaves)
- Rice paper wrappers (about 10-12 sheets)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef and cook it thoroughly until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the soy sauce and hoisin sauce, mixing well to evenly coat the meat. Continue to cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce is absorbed and the beef is fully flavored.
- Add Vegetables: Add the shredded carrots and chopped bell peppers to the cooked beef mixture. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still retain some crispness. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Soften Rice Paper: Fill a shallow dish or bowl with warm water. Dip each rice paper wrapper into the warm water for about 10-15 seconds until it becomes pliable but not too soft. Lay the softened wrapper flat on a clean surface.
- Assemble the Rolls: Place a few basil leaves on the lower third of the rice paper, then add about 2 tablespoons of the beef and vegetable mixture on top of the basil. Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then tightly roll it up from the bottom to form a neat roll. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Serve: Arrange the rolls on a serving platter. They can be enjoyed immediately or chilled briefly. Serve with dipping sauces like sweet chili or peanut sauce if desired.
Notes
- Rice paper wrappers can tear easily; be gentle when softening them in water.
- Do not over-soak the rice paper or the rolls will be too sticky and hard to handle.
- For added flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chili flakes to the beef while cooking.
- These rolls make a great appetizer or light meal when paired with a fresh salad.
- Leftover rolls can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to a day but are best eaten fresh.
Keywords: Thai basil beef rolls, rice paper rolls, Thai appetizers, ground beef rolls, fresh basil rolls, easy Thai recipe
