Thai Basil Beef Rolls are fresh and full of flavor. They are easy to make and taste bright with basil and vegetables. If you like simple Asian bites, try Chinese breakfast recipes for other ideas. These rolls work well as a snack or light meal.
Why make this recipe
- It is quick to cook.
- It uses simple ingredients.
- It is fresh and healthy.
- People of all ages like the mild, herby taste.
How to prepare Thai Basil Beef Rolls
- Gather all ingredients and tools.
- Cook and cool the beef filling.
- Soften rice paper just before you fill them.
- Work on a clean board and fill each wrapper with beef, veggies, and basil.
- Roll them tight so they do not fall apart.
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
Steps:
- Cook ground beef with soy sauce and hoisin sauce until done.
- Add carrots and peppers, cooking until tender.
- Soften rice paper in warm water.
- Fill with beef mixture and fresh basil, roll up, and serve.
How to serve Thai Basil Beef Rolls
Serve cold or slightly warm. Place rolls on a plate with a small bowl of dipping sauce (soy, hoisin, or sweet chili). Serve with extra basil leaves and lime wedges if you like. They make a good starter or part of a small meal.
How to store Thai Basil Beef Rolls
- Short term: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Long term: You can freeze the cooked beef (not rolled) for up to 2 months. Thaw and fill fresh rice paper when ready.
- Note: Rolled rice paper gets soft and a bit sticky in the fridge. It is best to eat within a day.
Tips to make Thai Basil Beef Rolls perfectly
- Do not overfill the rice paper. A small amount is easier to roll.
- Pat the cooked beef dry if it is very wet. Too much liquid makes rolling hard.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor. Thai basil is ideal, but regular sweet basil works.
- Wet the rice paper just enough to soften. Too long and it will tear.
- Work fast once the rice paper is soft.
Variations
- Swap beef for ground chicken, pork, or tofu.
- Add rice noodles or vermicelli for more texture.
- Use mint or cilantro with basil for different herb notes.
- Make spicy: add sliced chili or a dash of sriracha to the beef.
FAQ
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can cook the beef ahead, but roll the rice paper just before serving for best texture.
Q: What dipping sauce works best?
A: Simple soy, hoisin, sweet chili, or a mix of lime and fish sauce all work well.
Q: Can I use other wrappers?
A: You can try lettuce leaves, but rice paper gives the classic chew and look.
Q: How do I stop rice paper from sticking?
A: Use a damp towel under the roll or a lightly oiled surface. Work quickly and keep the paper just soft.
Q: Are these gluten free?
A: Use gluten-free soy or tamari and check hoisin sauce labels to make them gluten free.
Thai Basil Beef Rolls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Fresh and flavorful rolls filled with beef, vegetables, and basil, perfect as a snack 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
- Cook ground beef with soy sauce and hoisin sauce until done.
- Add carrots and peppers, cooking until tender.
- Soften rice paper in warm water.
- Fill with beef mixture and fresh basil, roll up, and serve.
Notes
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Rolled rice paper gets soft and a bit sticky; best to eat within a day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Rolling
- Cuisine: Thai