Name: Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb Lean ground beef – A flavorful base that brings heartiness to your rolls.; 2 tbsp Soy sauce – Adds a savory umami flavor.; 2 tbsp Hoisin sauce – Provides a touch of sweetness.; 1 cup Shredded carrots – Crunchy and sweet, providing texture and color.; 1 cup Chopped bell peppers – Adds freshness and a pop of flavor.; 1 cup Fresh basil leaves – Essential for that aromatic Thai flavor.; 8 sheets Rice paper wrappers – Creates the perfect wrap for your flavorful filling!

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Introduction

Discover the fresh and flavorful delight of Thai Basil Beef Rolls. These light, vibrant rolls combine savory ground beef, crisp vegetables, and aromatic basil wrapped in delicate rice paper. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer to share.

Three translucent spring rolls are lined up on a wooden tray, each showing dark brown cooked meat inside tightly wrapped with bright green leafy herbs. The outer layer is shiny and slightly sticky, sprinkled with small white sesame seeds. Part of a white bowl filled with fresh green leaves is visible behind the spring rolls, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup chopped bell peppers
1 cup fresh basil leaves
8 sheets rice paper wrappers

Instructions

Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef, soy sauce, and hoisin sauce. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add the shredded carrots and chopped bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
Step 3: Pour warm water into a shallow dish. Gently dip a rice paper wrapper into the water for 10-15 seconds until soft but not soggy.
Step 4: Place the softened rice paper on a clean surface. Spoon a portion of the beef mixture and add a couple of fresh basil leaves in the center.
Step 5: Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom up to seal the roll.
Step 6: Arrange the rolls on a serving platter and enjoy them fresh. Optionally, serve with sweet chili or peanut dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

Use warm, not boiling, water to soften rice paper to prevent tearing.
Don’t overfill the rolls to avoid breaking the wrappers.
Swap ground beef for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
Add sliced jalapeños or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Include fresh mint or cilantro along with basil for extra herbal flavor.
Top with crushed peanuts or crispy shallots for added texture.
Serve with a tangy soy-lime dipping sauce for a flavor boost.

Storage

Enjoy these rolls immediately for best texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, separating rolls with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Rolls are best enjoyed cold or gently warmed in a pan.

How to Serve

Three translucent spring rolls are tightly wrapped and placed side by side on a light wooden tray, each roll showing visible layers of dark brown cooked meat filling combined with bright green leafy herbs inside the shiny, slightly sticky rice paper wrappers. The tops are drizzled with a glossy brown sauce that has small white sesame seeds sprinkled on it, adding texture and color contrast. Some green basil leaves are seen in a white bowl nearby on a smooth white marbled surface in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What type of ground beef is best for these rolls?

Lean ground beef with about 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio works best, providing flavor without excess grease. Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter alternative.

How should I store leftover Thai Basil Beef Rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 days, separating layers with parchment paper. Enjoy cold or lightly reheat in a pan for best texture.

Can I freeze the rolls for later?

Yes, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and serve cold or warmed lightly in a pan.

Why do my rice paper wrappers tear when I roll?

Rice paper tears are usually caused by over-soaking in water or overfilling with the beef mixture. Dip rice paper for only 10-15 seconds and fill lightly to prevent tearing.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?

Soy sauce contains gluten; substitute with gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos if needed. Check labels on hoisin sauce for allergens or gluten content.

How can I customize my Thai Basil Beef Rolls?

Try adding avocado, swapping beef for shrimp or tofu, or including cucumber slices for crunch. Experiment with herbs and dipping sauces to suit your taste.