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Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Thai Basil Beef Rolls feature juicy, seasoned ground beef combined with fresh Thai basil leaves, wrapped in soft rice paper with crisp vegetables. This vibrant, aromatic appetizer offers a balanced blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it a fresh and healthy finger food perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef Filling

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp chili flakes or fresh chili, to taste (optional)
  • 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves

Vegetables & Wrappers

  • 810 rice paper wrappers
  • 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced into strips
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced into thin strips
  • 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef Filling: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and shallots and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in fish sauce, soy sauce, and chili flakes (if using) for seasoning. Finally, toss in fresh Thai basil leaves and stir until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Soften the Rice Paper Wrappers: Fill a large shallow dish or bowl with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 5 seconds or until pliable but not overly soft. Lay the wrapper flat on a clean surface or cutting board, ready for filling.
  3. Assemble the Rolls: Place a small amount of the beef mixture in the center of the softened rice paper. Add thin strips of cucumber and carrot on top of the beef for crunch. Fold in the sides of the rice paper, then roll tightly from the bottom up to enclose the filling completely, forming a neat roll.
  4. Serve or Chill: Arrange the finished rolls on a plate and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, or cover and refrigerate if preparing ahead of time.

Notes

  • Do not over-soak rice paper wrappers to avoid tearing.
  • Use fresh Thai basil for the best aromatic flavor.
  • Prepare vegetables in advance to speed up assembly.
  • Keep the beef mixture moist by avoiding overcooking.
  • Pair with dipping sauces like sweet chili, peanut sauce, or lime-fish sauce for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai Basil Beef Rolls, rice paper rolls, Thai appetizer, gluten-free appetizer, fresh beef rolls, easy Thai recipe