Thai Basil Beef Rolls

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Fresh, fragrant, and full of flavor, Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a delicious twist on traditional rice paper rolls. Packed with savory marinated beef, vibrant herbs, and crunchy vegetables, all wrapped in delicate rice paper and served with a bold dipping sauce, these rolls offer the perfect balance of spice, freshness, and umami.

Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer, a light dinner, or a healthy meal prep option, these Thai Basil Beef Rolls check every box. The ingredients are easy to find, and once you get the rolling technique down, you might find yourself making these again and again.

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What Kind of Rice Paper Should I Use?

Use round rice paper wrappers, typically 22 cm in size, which are widely available in Asian grocery stores or international aisles in major supermarkets. Soften them in warm water just until pliable—too long and they’ll tear; too short and they won’t roll properly. Look for ones that include tapioca starch for extra flexibility.

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Ingredients for the Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Ground Beef (or thinly sliced sirloin): Rich and juicy, this is the star of the roll. Make sure to brown it well to develop maximum flavor.

Thai Basil: This herb has a sweet, slightly spicy, anise-like aroma that sets the rolls apart from other varieties.

Rice Paper Wrappers: The delicate outer shell that encases all the bold flavors inside.

Garlic and Ginger: These aromatic staples build the base flavor for the beef.

Soy Sauce and Fish Sauce: For that deep umami punch essential to Thai-style cooking.

Chili Flakes or Fresh Thai Chilies: Bring the heat! Adjust to taste.

Carrots and Cucumbers (Julienned): For added crunch and freshness inside the roll.

Mint and Cilantro Leaves: These herbs give the rolls that extra layer of freshness and balance.

Lettuce Leaves: They help contain the filling and add a soft crunch.

Dipping Sauce: Typically a mix of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili—make it ahead so flavors can meld.

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How To Make the Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Step 1: Sauté the Beef Filling

In a hot skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté minced garlic and ginger until aromatic. Add ground beef (or thinly sliced beef) and cook until browned. Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, and chili flakes. Toss in chopped Thai basil and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Prep the Fresh Ingredients

While the beef is cooling, julienne the carrots and cucumbers. Rinse and pat dry your mint, cilantro, and lettuce leaves. Set everything in a mise en place for quick rolling later.

Step 3: Soften the Rice Paper

Fill a large bowl with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper at a time for about 10-15 seconds until just soft. Place the softened sheet on a clean, damp towel or cutting board.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Layer a piece of lettuce in the lower third of the rice paper, followed by a spoonful of the beef mixture. Add julienned veggies, fresh herbs, and any optional toppings. Fold in the sides, roll up from the bottom, and tuck tightly as you go.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Arrange the rolls seam-side down on a platter. Brush with a little sesame oil for a sheen (optional). Serve with the dipping sauce and garnish with extra herbs or sliced chilies.

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How to Serve and Store Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Serve these rolls fresh and cool, right after assembly for the best texture. The contrast between the warm beef and crisp veggies makes them pop with flavor. Arrange on a platter with the dipping sauce in the center, and sprinkle chopped herbs or sesame seeds over the top for a vibrant presentation.

If making ahead, wrap each roll in plastic wrap or damp parchment to prevent sticking. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the rice paper can harden or become chewy over time, so it’s best to enjoy them the same day if possible.

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What to Serve With Thai Basil Beef Rolls?

Chilled Rice Noodle Salad

Light and refreshing, a tangy noodle salad with lime juice, herbs, and peanuts pairs beautifully with these rolls.

Thai Iced Tea

Creamy and slightly spiced, it balances the savory and spicy notes of the beef rolls.

Coconut Jasmine Rice

A mild, fragrant side that adds a warm and comforting bite alongside the cool rolls.

Papaya Salad (Som Tum)

Zesty, crunchy, and just as vibrant, this adds more texture and heat to your plate.

Peanut Sauce Dip

Serve alongside or in place of the fish sauce dip for a rich, nutty contrast.

Vietnamese Pickled Vegetables

These sweet-tart pickles cut through the beefy richness with a crisp bite.

Thai Chicken Skewers

If you’re serving a crowd, skewers make a great protein-packed companion to the rolls.

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Want More Fresh and Flavor-Packed Appetizers?

If you enjoyed these Thai Basil Beef Rolls, you might love diving into these other tasty creations from the site:

• Try the Taco Ranch Bites for a bite-sized treat packed with Southwest flair.
• Need a pasta fix? The Creamy Beef and Shells brings comfort food vibes in under 30 minutes.
• For a spicy-sweet explosion, check out the Bang Bang Chicken.
• These Cheesesteak Tortellini offer fusion indulgence in every creamy bite.
• Add some heat with the Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce — it’s a fast weeknight win.

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