Thai Basil Beef Rolls
These flavorful Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a delightful appetizer or light meal that combines tender beef, aromatic Thai basil, and crunchy vegetables, wrapped in rice paper. They are fresh, savory, and perfect for dipping in a zesty sauce.
Equipment
- 1 frying pan
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 bamboo or flat cutting board
- 1 large shallow dish (for water)
- 1 serving platter
Ingredients
- 12 oz ground beef
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves Approximately 30 g.
- ½ cup grated carrots About 50 g.
- ½ cup bell pepper, thinly sliced About 50 g.
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped About 25 g.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 12 pieces rice paper wrappers
- lettuce leaves For serving.
- optional chili sauce For dipping.
Instructions
- Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add minced garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar to the beef. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Once the beef mixture has cooled, stir in the Thai basil leaves, grated carrots, sliced bell peppers, and chopped green onions until well combined.
- Prepare a large shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for 10-15 seconds until soft.
- Place the softened rice paper on a clean cutting board, and add about 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture towards the bottom third of the wrapper. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly from the bottom up.
- Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
- Serve the rolls on a platter with lettuce leaves as a garnish and optional chili sauce for dipping.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with textured vegetable protein or mushrooms.
Make sure all ingredients are prepared and within reach before starting to roll, as rice paper can dry out quickly.
These rolls can also be stored in the fridge for a few hours before serving, but they are best enjoyed fresh.