Name: Thai Basil Beef Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 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; Rice paper wrappers

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why make this recipe

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a delicious and fresh dish that brings together the flavors of Thai cuisine in a fun, easy-to-eat form. They are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal. The combination of lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and fragrant basil wrapped in soft rice paper creates a delightful taste experience. Plus, they are simple to make and can be enjoyed by everyone, making them a great choice for gatherings or family dinners.

how to make Thai Basil Beef Rolls

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

Directions:

In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Add the soy sauce and hoisin sauce while cooking. Stir until the beef is fully cooked.
Add the shredded carrots and chopped bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Prepare a bowl of warm water. Dip a rice paper wrapper in the water for a few seconds until it softens.
Place the softened wrapper on a clean surface. Add a spoonful of the beef mixture and a few fresh basil leaves on top.
Carefully roll the wrapper, folding in the sides as you go to ensure the filling stays inside. Repeat until all the filling is used.
Serve the rolls fresh, with a dipping sauce if desired.

how to serve Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are best served fresh. You can plate them nicely and offer dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce on the side for added flavor. These rolls make a great appetizer for parties or a fun finger food option for family dinners.

how to store Thai Basil Beef Rolls

If you have leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best eaten within a day or two of making. Depending on how soft the rice paper is, you may notice that it can harden a bit in the fridge. If you want to keep them longer, it’s better to store the beef mixture and rice paper wrappers separately.

tips to make Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Make sure the water you use to soften the rice paper is warm but not too hot. This helps the wrappers become pliable without tearing.
Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumber or lettuce for added crunch.
Adjust the soy sauce and hoisin sauce to your taste preference. You can make them sweeter or a bit saltier depending on your liking.

variation

For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with cooked tofu or mushrooms. You can also use different herbs like cilantro or mint if you want a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance. However, it’s best to assemble the rolls just before serving to keep the rice paper fresh.

Are Thai Basil Beef Rolls gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce. Rice paper wrappers are generally gluten-free, but always check the packaging to be sure.

Can I freeze these rolls?
While cooked beef mixture can be frozen, it’s best not to freeze the assembled rolls. The rice paper may become too soggy after thawing. Instead, prepare fresh rolls when you are ready to enjoy them.