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Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe

4.9 from 144 reviews

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a fresh and flavorful appetizer featuring ground beef cooked with aromatic garlic, shallots, and traditional Thai seasonings, wrapped in delicate rice paper with fresh herbs and crisp vegetables. These rolls combine savory, tangy, and spicy notes balanced by aromatic Thai basil, making them a perfect light meal or party appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef Filling

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
  • 1 pound ground beef (85/15)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or 1 minced Thai chili
  • 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped

For the Rolls and Garnishes

  • 8 to 10 rice paper wrappers
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cilantro leaves (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onion (optional)
  • 1/4 cup julienned carrots or cucumbers (optional)
  • 1/4 cup dipping sauce (soy-lime or chili-garlic blend)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped shallot, sautéing until fragrant and slightly softened, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon for even cooking, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Season the Beef: Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
  4. Finish the Filling: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in fresh lime juice and chopped Thai basil leaves. Allow the filling to cool slightly before assembling the rolls.
  5. Set Up Rolling Station: Fill a shallow plate with warm water to soften the rice paper wrappers. Arrange all filling components, including herbs and optional vegetables, close by for easy access.
  6. Soften the Rice Paper: Dip one rice paper wrapper into the warm water for 5-10 seconds until pliable but not too soft. Lay it flat on a clean surface for assembly.
  7. Add Filling: Place a portion of the beef filling near the bottom edge of the softened rice paper. Add fresh mint, cilantro, green onions, and julienned carrots or cucumbers if using.
  8. Roll the Wrapper: Fold the bottom edge over the filling, tuck in the sides carefully, and roll tightly to encase the filling securely.
  9. Repeat: Continue softening wrappers and rolling until all filling and wrappers are used.
  10. Serve: Slice the rolls in half diagonally and serve on a platter with dipping sauce such as soy-lime or chili-garlic blend on the side.

Notes

  • Be sure not to soak the rice paper wrappers too long or they will become difficult to handle and tear.
  • Fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, and Thai basil enhance the flavor and authenticity but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Adjust chili flakes or fresh chili to your preferred heat level.
  • These rolls are best served fresh, as rice paper can become sticky after prolonged storage.

Keywords: Thai basil beef rolls, rice paper rolls, Thai appetizer, fresh spring rolls, ground beef rolls, Asian rolls, Thai food