Name: Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves; 8 large rice paper sheets; 1 medium cucumber, julienned; 1 medium carrot, julienned; Additional fresh herbs (mint, cilantro) for garnish, to taste (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving something fresh, flavorful, and absolutely bursting with the vibrant notes of Thai cuisine, these Thai Basil Beef Rolls will quickly become your go-to snack or appetizer. Picture tender ground beef infused with aromatic Thai basil, garlic, and a perfect balance of soy and fish sauce, all wrapped in delicate rice paper with crisp cucumber and carrot juliennes for a refreshing crunch. I love these rolls because they are light, easy to make, and offer a harmony of textures and bold flavors that are simply irresistible. Once you try Thai Basil Beef Rolls, they might just disappear from your kitchen faster than you can say “yum!”

Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is where the magic begins, and for these Thai Basil Beef Rolls, simplicity delivers maximum flavor. Each component plays a vital role whether it’s the fragrant Thai basil that brings an herbal kick, or the crisp veggies adding texture and freshness.

Ground beef: Choose lean for a juicy, tender filling that’s easy to cook evenly.
Fresh Thai basil leaves: The star herb, lending its unmistakable sweet and spicy aroma.
Garlic cloves, minced: Adds depth and a savory punch that wakes up the beef.
Soy sauce: Provides saltiness and umami to balance the flavors perfectly.
Fish sauce: A key ingredient for authentic Thai flavor with a subtle seafood touch.
Sugar: Just a teaspoon to round out the salty sauces with a hint of sweetness.
Black pepper: Brings a gentle heat and aromatic spice to the filling.
Vegetable oil: For sautéing garlic and beef without overpowering flavors.
Large rice paper sheets: Soft and flexible, these wraps hold everything together while keeping the dish light.
Medium cucumber, julienned: Crunchy and refreshing, balancing the warm, savory beef.
Medium carrot, julienned: Adds subtle sweetness and vibrant color to every bite.
Additional fresh herbs (mint, cilantro): Optional garnishes that elevate freshness and complexity.

How to Make Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Step 1: Sauté the garlic and brown the beef

Start by warming vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it cook just long enough for its fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen—about 30 seconds. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s nicely browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. This forms the savory backbone of your rolls.

Step 2: Season the beef mixture

Once the beef is evenly cooked, stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper. These ingredients combine to create that authentic Thai flavor profile that’s savory, slightly sweet, and wonderfully balanced. Let the mixture cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to let the flavors meld, then remove the pan from heat and allow it to cool slightly so it’s easier to handle in the next steps.

Step 3: Prepare the rice paper wrappers

Fill a shallow dish with warm water. One at a time, dip each rice paper sheet into the water for 10 to 15 seconds until softened but still pliable. Lay each softened sheet flat on a clean plate or cutting board, ready to be filled. Timing here is key—you want the wrappers soft enough to roll easily but not too wet or they’ll tear.

Step 4: Assemble the rolls

At the bottom edge of each rice paper sheet, place a small amount of the cooled beef mixture. Layer with a few fresh basil leaves, cucumber, and carrot juliennes on top. This combination guarantees a satisfying bite with every roll. Fold the sides over the filling gently, then roll tightly from the bottom to seal everything inside. Repeat with the remaining sheets until all your delicious fillings are wrapped up.

Step 5: Final touches

Arrange your Thai Basil Beef Rolls on a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle with some extra fresh herbs such as mint or cilantro to brighten the presentation and flavor. Serve alongside your favorite dipping sauces like sweet chili or creamy peanut sauce to elevate the whole experience.

How to Serve Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Garnishes

Freshness is everything with Thai Basil Beef Rolls, so simple garnishes like sprigs of mint, cilantro, or additional Thai basil leaves add a pop of green and a burst of extra aroma. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds also adds a delightful nutty crunch if you want to get a little creative.

Side Dishes

These rolls shine when paired with light and crisp sides—think steamed jasmine rice or a cool Asian slaw with lime and chili flakes. A bowl of hot and sour soup or a green papaya salad makes a fantastic accompaniment to round out the meal with contrasting textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a party or want to impress family, serve the Thai Basil Beef Rolls artistically on a bamboo platter with small dipping bowls of various sauces. You can cut the rolls in half diagonally for elegant finger food styling, or stack them in a tower with edible flowers as a centerpiece for a feast full of eye-catching appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Thai Basil Beef Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the rice paper from drying out, place a damp paper towel over the rolls inside the container. This helps maintain that perfect chewy texture without becoming brittle.

Freezing

Because the filling contains cooked beef, you can freeze the meat mixture separately for up to 1 month. Thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator before assembling fresh rolls. However, rice paper rolls themselves do not freeze well as the texture becomes unpleasantly chewy and rubbery.

Reheating

If you have leftover beef filling, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. The assembled rolls are best enjoyed fresh and room temperature to preserve the contrast between the crisp veggies and tender filling.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or turkey can be great substitutes for ground beef in Thai Basil Beef Rolls. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and season as needed to keep the bold Thai flavors alive.

Where can I find Thai basil?

Thai basil is usually available at Asian grocery stores or larger supermarkets in the fresh herb section. If you can’t find it, sweet basil can be a decent substitute, but the flavor will be milder and less peppery.

Are Thai Basil Beef Rolls gluten-free?

They can be, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce. The other ingredients, like rice paper and fresh vegetables, are naturally gluten-free, making this a great gluten-sensitive friendly recipe option.

What sauces go best with Thai Basil Beef Rolls?

Sweet chili sauce and peanut sauce are classic pairings that complement the savory beef and fresh herbs beautifully. You can also try a tangy lime dressing or a simple hoisin peanut dip for a flavorful twist.

Can these rolls be made vegan or vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the ground beef for seasoned tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms sautéed with garlic, soy, and fish sauce alternatives to create delicious vegan Thai Basil “Beef” Rolls without missing out on flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about rolling your own Thai Basil Beef Rolls—the delightful contrast of warm, flavorful beef with fresh, crisp veggies wrapped in delicate rice paper is a treat every time. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal, they’re sure to impress and become a beloved favorite. So grab your ingredients, gather some friends or family, and dive into the fun and delicious world of Thai Basil Beef Rolls. You won’t regret it!

Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 18 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 8 rolls 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a fresh and flavorful appetizer featuring seasoned ground beef wrapped in delicate rice paper with fresh Thai basil and crunchy vegetables. These rolls offer a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic herbs, making them a delightful dish for gatherings or a light meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until well combined. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Soften Rice Paper Sheets: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Quickly dip one rice paper sheet into the water for about 10-15 seconds, or until softened. Lay it flat on a clean plate.
Assemble the Rolls: Place a small amount of the beef mixture at the bottom of the rice paper sheet. Add a few basil leaves, some julienned cucumber, and carrot on top.
Roll the Wrap: Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling and roll tightly from the bottom to secure the ingredients inside. Repeat this process for the remaining rice paper sheets and filling.
Garnish and Serve: Place the rolls on a serving platter and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve with a side of sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce for dipping.

Notes

Rice paper sheets can be found in most Asian grocery stores or well-stocked supermarkets.
To keep rice paper soft and pliable, cover rolled wraps with a damp cloth until serving.
Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
Add more fresh herbs like mint or cilantro inside the rolls for a burst of freshness.
For a vegetarian version, replace beef with cooked tofu or mushrooms and use soy sauce only (no fish sauce).

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Sautéing and Rolling
Cuisine: Thai