Name: Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
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

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a delightful and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Thai cuisine to your table. Ground beef is seasoned with soy sauce and wrapped in fresh Thai basil leaves, bell pepper slices, and rice paper, creating a delicious appetizer or main course. With a perfect balance of savory beef, aromatic basil, and a touch of crunch from the bell pepper, these rolls offer a burst of authentic Thai flavors in every bite. They’re quick to prepare and make for an impressive dish to serve at any gathering.

Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe

Ingredients

Main 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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, stir in the soy sauce and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Soak the rice paper wrappers in warm water for about 10-15 seconds, or until pliable. Be careful not to soak them for too long to avoid tearing.
Assemble the Rolls:
- Lay a rice paper wrapper on a flat surface. Place a few fresh basil leaves in the center, followed by a few slices of bell pepper and a spoonful of the cooked ground beef mixture.
- Roll the rice paper tightly around the filling, folding in the sides as you go to create a secure wrap.
Serve:
- Arrange the finished rolls on a serving platter. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce, for added flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein, such as crumbled tofu or tempeh, and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Extra Veggies: Add shredded carrots, cucumber, or mushrooms to the filling for extra crunch and flavor.
Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like cilantro or mint for a different twist on the classic Thai flavors.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dipping sauce separate.
Reheating: These rolls are best served fresh, but if you need to reheat them, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the rice paper from getting too tough.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent the rice paper from drying out.

Can I use something other than rice paper?

If you’re not a fan of rice paper, you can substitute it with lettuce leaves or even cabbage leaves for a low-carb alternative.

What dipping sauce pairs best with these rolls?

Sweet chili sauce is a popular choice for dipping, but you can also try peanut sauce, hoisin sauce, or soy sauce with a splash of lime for a refreshing dip.

How do I keep the rice paper from tearing?

Be sure not to over-soak the rice paper, and avoid overfilling the rolls. Gently fold in the sides as you roll to prevent any stress on the paper.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Conclusion

These Thai Basil Beef Rolls are an irresistible, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their combination of savory beef, fresh basil, and crunchy vegetables wrapped in delicate rice paper, they’re a treat that will wow your guests. Easy to prepare, customizable, and full of vibrant Thai flavors, these rolls are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!