Name: Thai Basil Beef Rolls – Fresh Thai Flavors in Every Bite Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
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, as needed; Rice paper wrappers, as needed

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Introduction

Thai Basil Beef Rolls offer a delightful burst of fresh Thai flavors wrapped in delicate rice paper. These light and flavorful rolls make a perfect appetizer or light meal, combining savory beef with fragrant basil and crisp vegetables.

This close-up image shows a single layer of cooked ground beef mixed with small pieces of translucent cooked onions and some golden-brown bits in a dark pan. The beef is crumbly and rich brown in color, with a slightly oily texture. Two small green basil sprigs lie on top and add a fresh touch to the meat. The pan background is black but the surface behind it is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 until it begins to brown. Add the soy sauce and hoisin sauce, stirring well to combine and fully cook the beef.
Step 2: Stir in the shredded carrots and chopped bell peppers, cooking for another 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Step 3: Fill a shallow dish with warm water and soak one rice paper wrapper at a time until it becomes soft and pliable, about 10–15 seconds.
Step 4: Lay the softened rice paper on a clean surface. Place a spoonful of the beef and vegetable mixture in the center, add a few fresh basil leaves on top, then carefully roll it up, folding in the sides to enclose the filling.
Step 5: Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Serve the rolls fresh, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a splash of fish sauce to the beef mixture while cooking.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Include thinly sliced cucumber or fresh mint leaves for added crunch and aroma.

Storage

These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To prevent the rice paper from drying out, cover them with a damp paper towel. Avoid freezing as the texture may change. Serve cold or at room temperature; reheating is not recommended.

How to Serve

A wooden tray holds a white plate filled with six golden brown fried spring rolls stacked in two uneven rows. One spring roll is cut in half revealing a dark meat and fresh green onion filling inside. Bright green fresh basil leaves and lettuce surround the rolls, with three lime wedges near the bottom right of the plate and slices of red chili peppers on the left side. Two small white bowls sit in the top left corner, each filled with dark spicy dipping sauces speckled with red chili flakes and chopped herbs. The entire scene rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it, but it’s best to assemble the rolls just before serving to keep the rice paper from drying out or becoming sticky.

What dipping sauce pairs well with Thai Basil Beef Rolls?

A sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce, or a simple mixture of lime juice, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar complements the fresh flavors beautifully.