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Thai Basil Beef Rolls 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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