Name: Thai Basil Beef Rolls – Fresh Thai Flavors in Every Bite Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers; Fresh basil leaves (about 20 leaves); Rice paper wrappers (about 10-12 sheets)

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Introduction

These Thai Basil Beef Rolls bring fresh and vibrant Thai flavors wrapped in delicate rice paper. They are perfect as a light appetizer or a flavorful snack that’s easy to prepare and fun to eat.

A white rectangular plate holds six spring rolls arranged in two rows of three, each roll tightly wrapped with a translucent golden-brown wrapper that is glossy with a sticky glaze. Inside, the filling appears rich and textured, showing shades of dark brown meat and herbs. Bright green basil leaves are pressed into the outside of each roll, adding a fresh look and slight contrast. Next to the rolls, a small white bowl filled with dark brown dipping sauce is topped with slices of red and green chili and bits of garlic, giving a colorful and inviting touch. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, enhancing the warm colors of the food. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
Fresh basil leaves
Rice paper wrappers

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add the soy sauce and hoisin sauce, and continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and cooked through.
Step 2: Stir in the shredded carrots and chopped bell peppers, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
Step 3: Soften each rice paper wrapper by dipping it briefly in warm water until pliable. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
Step 4: Place a portion of the beef and vegetable mixture onto the center of the rice paper. Add a few fresh basil leaves on top.
Step 5: Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling and roll tightly to enclose. Repeat with remaining ingredients and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of chopped chilies to the beef mixture before rolling.
Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.
Serve with a dipping sauce like peanut or sweet chili sauce for added taste.
Include fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a brighter herbal note.

Storage

These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To prevent the rice paper from drying out, cover the rolls with a damp paper towel. They are not ideal for reheating, as the rice paper can become tough.

How to Serve

A wooden tray holds a white plate filled with five golden-brown spring rolls, one cut open at the top showing dark, shredded meat inside. The spring rolls are sprinkled with chopped green onions and rest on fresh green basil leaves. Bright red chili slices and two light green lime wedges sit on the plate's bottom right. On the tray's upper left, two small bowls contain dark, spicy dipping sauce dotted with chili flakes. Fresh green lettuce leaves are placed near the top right of the plate, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the beef mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the beef and vegetables in advance and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. Assemble the rolls just before serving to keep the rice paper fresh and pliable.

What can I use if I can’t find rice paper wrappers?

Rice paper wraps are essential for the texture and flavor of these rolls. If unavailable, consider using fresh lettuce leaves as a substitute for wrapping, though the texture will be different.