Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe

Introduction

These Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack. Combining fragrant Thai basil with savory ground beef wrapped in tender rice paper, they offer a perfect balance of fresh and cooked flavors. Enjoy them warm for a satisfying treat.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves
• 1 medium bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 package rice paper wrappers

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Stir and break apart the meat until fully cooked, about 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: Stir in the soy sauce and mix in the bell pepper slices. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the peppers to soften slightly.
3. Step 3: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves until well combined. Set the filling aside to cool slightly.
4. Step 4: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper in the water for 10-15 seconds until softened.
5. Step 5: Place the softened rice paper on a clean, flat surface. Spoon a small amount of the beef mixture onto the lower third of the wrapper.
6. Step 6: Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, tuck in the sides, then roll tightly from bottom to top.
7. Step 7: Repeat the soaking and rolling process for the remaining wrappers and filling.
8. Step 8: Add a bit of oil to the same skillet and heat over medium-high. Place the rolls seam-side down and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
9. Step 9: Remove the rolls from the skillet and let them cool for a minute before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of red and yellow bell peppers for a colorful presentation.
• Add minced garlic or chili flakes to the beef for extra flavor and heat.
• Serve with a dipping sauce like sweet chili or peanut sauce to enhance the taste.
• If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu or mushrooms.

Storage

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the rice paper wrappers soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the rolls in advance. Keep them wrapped in plastic wrap and refrigerated, then cook just before serving for the best texture.

What can I use if I can’t find Thai basil?

If Thai basil is unavailable, sweet basil is a good substitute. However, Thai basil has a more distinct licorice-like flavor that complements the dish uniquely.

Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 92 reviews

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a flavorful and vibrant appetizer featuring seasoned ground beef, fresh Thai basil, and crunchy bell peppers wrapped in delicate rice paper and pan-fried until golden brown. These rolls offer a delightful combination of savory, herbal, and slightly sweet notes, perfect as a snack or party platter item.

• Author: Marco
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 rolls 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Thai

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef Filling

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups fresh Thai basil leaves
• 1 medium bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Assembly

• 1 package rice paper wrappers
• Oil, for frying (about 2 tablespoons)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef by stirring and breaking apart the meat until fully cooked, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Flavor: Stir in the soy sauce and mix in the thinly sliced bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peppers soften slightly.
3. Remove from Heat and Add Basil: Take the skillet off the heat and fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves until well combined. Set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
4. Soften the Rice Paper: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper in the water for 10-15 seconds until it becomes pliable but not too soft.
5. Assemble the Rolls: Lay the softened wrapper flat on a clean surface, and spoon a small amount of the beef mixture onto the lower third of the wrapper.
6. Roll It Up: Fold the bottom edge over the filling, tuck in the sides neatly, and roll tightly from bottom to top to form a compact roll.
7. Repeat: Continue softening, filling, and rolling the remaining wrappers with the beef mixture.
8. Cook the Rolls: Add about 2 tablespoons of oil to the skillet and heat over medium-high. Place the rolls seam-side down in the skillet and fry each side for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.
9. Serve Warm: Remove the cooked rolls from the skillet, allow them to cool slightly for a minute, then serve warm.

Notes

• Ensure the rice paper is not soaked too long; it should be pliable but not fragile.
• Use fresh Thai basil for authentic flavor; sweet basil can be a substitute but changes taste.
• You can add chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies for a spicier kick.
• Serve with a dipping sauce such as sweet chili or soy-based sauce for extra flavor.

Keywords: Thai Basil Beef Rolls, Thai appetizer, rice paper rolls, pan-fried beef rolls, Thai basil recipes