Why You’ll Love Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe
These Thai Basil Beef Rolls are the perfect balance of fresh and savory. The warm, seasoned beef pairs beautifully with crunchy vegetables and aromatic basil, all wrapped in soft rice paper for a satisfying bite.
You’ll love how quick and simple they are to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights. They’re also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the vegetables, herbs, and spice level to suit your taste. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, they look impressive while requiring minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb lean ground beef
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup thinly sliced bell peppers
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Fresh Thai basil leaves
8–10 rice paper wrappers
Optional: sliced chili peppers or chili flakes for heat
Directions
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Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
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Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add the soy sauce and hoisin sauce. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Remove from heat and allow the beef mixture to cool slightly.
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Prepare a shallow dish of warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10–15 seconds until it becomes soft and pliable.
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Lay the softened wrapper on a clean surface. Place a few basil leaves in the center, followed by a spoonful of the beef mixture, shredded carrots, bell peppers, and green onions.
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Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll tightly from the bottom up to seal the filling inside.
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Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
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Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce such as sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 people (approximately 8–10 rolls)
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
For a lighter option, substitute ground chicken or turkey for the beef. You can also use crumbled tofu or finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Add extra crunch with cucumber strips, bean sprouts, or shredded cabbage. If you enjoy heat, mix chili garlic sauce into the beef or add thinly sliced fresh chilies inside the rolls.
You can also experiment with herbs by combining Thai basil with fresh mint or cilantro for an even more vibrant flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent sticking, place parchment paper between the rolls or wrap them individually in plastic wrap.
These rolls are best enjoyed fresh. Reheating is not generally recommended because rice paper can become tough or rubbery. If needed, gently warm the beef filling separately and assemble fresh rolls before serving.
FAQs
Can I make Thai Basil Beef Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance. Cover them with a damp paper towel and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the rice paper from drying out.
What dipping sauce works best with these rolls?
Sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce, or a simple soy-lime dipping sauce pairs wonderfully with the savory beef and fresh herbs.
Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil?
Yes, regular basil works well, though Thai basil provides a slightly spicier, more authentic flavor.
How do I keep rice paper from tearing?
Avoid over-soaking the rice paper. Dip it just until pliable and handle it gently while rolling.
Are these rolls gluten-free?
They can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce.
Can I freeze Thai Basil Beef Rolls?
Freezing is not recommended, as rice paper changes texture when thawed and may become brittle or chewy.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can include shredded cabbage, lettuce, bean sprouts, or thin cucumber slices for added texture and freshness.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, sliced fresh chilies, or a spoonful of chili paste to the beef mixture.
Can I serve these warm?
They are typically served fresh at room temperature. However, you may slightly warm the filling before assembling if desired.
Are these suitable for meal prep?
Yes, especially if you prepare the filling in advance. Store the filling separately and assemble the rolls when ready to eat for best texture.
Conclusion
Thai Basil Beef Rolls deliver fresh, bold flavors in every bite. With savory seasoned beef, crisp vegetables, and fragrant basil wrapped in delicate rice paper, this recipe offers a perfect balance of texture and taste. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, these rolls are an excellent choice for weeknight meals, gatherings, or light lunches. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
