Thai Basil Beef Rolls
These Thai basil beef rolls combine warm, savory beef with fresh vegetables and aromatic basil wrapped in tender rice paper for a quick and delightful appetizer.
Ingredients
For the beef filling
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 85/15)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended) Use tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce Check for gluten-free options
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers Mix colors for visual appeal
- Fresh basil leaves Thai basil if available; sweet basil works too
For rolling
- 8–12 pieces rice paper wrappers Depends on size and thickness
Instructions
Cooking the beef filling
- Heat a skillet over medium-high and add a touch of oil if your beef is very lean.
- Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula.
- When the beef is about halfway browned, stir in soy sauce and hoisin sauce.
- Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the sauce is thickened and glossy, about 4–6 minutes total.
- Add shredded carrots and chopped bell peppers, and cook for 2–3 minutes more.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Assembling the rolls
- Fill a shallow bowl with warm water. Soften one rice paper wrapper at a time by dipping for 8–12 seconds.
- Place the softened wrapper on a clean, damp tea towel or cutting board.
- Place 2–3 tablespoons of the beef mixture near the bottom third of the wrapper and top with 2–3 basil leaves.
- Fold the bottom edge over the filling, fold in the sides, then roll up tightly to seal.
- Repeat until all filling and wrappers are used.
Notes
Serve warm or at room temperature with dipping sauce options like sweet chili, hoisin-peanut, or soy-lime with chili flakes. Store assembled rolls in an airtight container lined with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Consume within 24 hours for best texture.