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Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Thai Basil Beef Rolls
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Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a quick and authentic Thai dish combining tender lean ground beef with fragrant Thai basil, garlic, chili, and fresh vegetables, all wrapped in rice paper or lettuce leaves. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, these rolls offer a delightful crunch and vibrant flavors that capture the essence of Thai street food.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 300g lean ground beef
  • 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 shallots, minced
  • 1–2 red chilies or bird’s eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce

Wrapping & Vegetables

  • 8–10 rice paper sheets (or large lettuce leaves as alternative)
  • 1 small carrot, julienned
  • 1 small cucumber, julienned

Optional Additions

  • Chopped peanuts or toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch
  • Fresh cilantro for garnishing
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Heat a pan over medium heat and sauté minced garlic and shallots until fragrant and golden. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in finely chopped chili, soy sauce, and fish sauce, then cook for an additional 2 minutes. Finally, toss in the fresh Thai basil leaves and let them wilt, allowing their aroma to infuse the mixture.
  2. Prepare the Wrappers: If using rice paper, soak each sheet briefly in warm water until pliable but not too soft to avoid tearing. If using lettuce leaves, rinse and pat dry, then lay flat on a clean surface ready for filling.
  3. Assemble the Rolls: Place a small spoonful of the beef filling onto the center of each wrapper. Add thin julienne slices of carrot and cucumber on top for added crunch and freshness. Carefully roll or fold the wrapper over the filling, similar to a spring roll or wrap, ensuring it is securely enclosed.
  4. Serve or Cook: These rolls can be enjoyed fresh and cold for a light appetizer, or you can lightly pan-fry them in a little oil until golden and crisp on the outside to add warm texture contrast before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh Thai basil for authentic flavor.
  • Do not over-soak rice paper sheets; they should be just soft enough to roll without tearing.
  • Adjust fish sauce and chili quantities incrementally to balance saltiness and spice to your preference.
  • Chop ingredients evenly to ensure consistent cooking and rolling.
  • Prepare the beef filling in advance to save time on busy days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai Basil Beef Rolls, Thai appetizer, Thai street food, rice paper rolls, gluten free, quick Thai recipe, basil beef wrap

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/thai-basil-beef-rolls/