Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, these Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a perfect light meal or appetizer. Featuring savory seasoned beef, crisp vegetables, and aromatic basil wrapped in delicate rice paper, they come together in about 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Fresh: Ready in 30 minutes with no cooking required for the wrappers.
- Healthy & Light: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
- Great for Sharing: An impressive and interactive dish for guests.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the fillings or protein to your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- ½ cup fresh Thai basil leaves (or regular basil)
- 8-10 rice paper wrappers (22cm/8.5-inch size)
For Serving (Optional)
- Peanut Sauce, Sweet Chili Sauce, or a simple Soy-Lime Dip
Instructions
- Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat. Stir in the soy sauce and hoisin sauce. Add the shredded carrots and chopped peppers, and cook for 1-2 more minutes just to soften slightly. Remove from heat and let cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Prepare to Roll: Fill a large, shallow dish or skillet with warm water. Lay a clean, damp kitchen towel on your work surface.
- Soften Wrapper: Dip one rice paper wrapper into the warm water for 5-10 seconds until just pliable. Lay it flat on the damp towel.
- Fill & Roll: On the bottom third of the wrapper, place 2-3 basil leaves, then top with about 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture. Fold the bottom edge over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll tightly upward to seal.
- Serve: Place the finished roll on a plate and cover with a slightly damp paper towel. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling. Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.
Pro Tips
- Don’t Over-Soak: Rice paper continues to soften after soaking; a quick dip is enough to prevent tearing.
- Work Quickly: Assemble one roll at a time to keep wrappers from sticking.
- Keep Them Moist: Store finished rolls under a damp towel to prevent drying out.
- Tight Rolls: Don’t overfill, and roll snugly for the best shape.
Dipping Sauce Ideas
- Peanut Sauce: Mix ¼ cup peanut butter with 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp honey, and a splash of warm water to thin.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Use store-bought or combine chili garlic sauce with a little honey and lime juice.
- Soy-Lime: Whisk 3 tbsp soy sauce with 2 tbsp lime juice and 1 tsp brown sugar.
Make Ahead & Storage
- Make Ahead: The beef filling can be made 1 day ahead and stored in the fridge. Assemble rolls just before serving.
- Storage: Finished rolls are best eaten immediately. If you must store them, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use another protein? Yes! Ground chicken, turkey, or chopped shrimp work well.
- How do I keep the rolls from sticking? Use a damp towel as your work surface and don’t let the finished rolls touch each other.
- Are they gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free (or substitute with oyster sauce).
- Can I add noodles? Absolutely. Add a small handful of cooked, thin rice noodles (vermicelli) to each roll for extra heartiness.
Enjoy these fresh, flavorful rolls as a light lunch, appetizer, or fun dinner!
