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Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Savory Thai Basil Beef Rolls: Your New Favorite Snack

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a delightful canvas for flavor, offering a perfect mix of freshness and richness that's simply irresistible.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 rolls
Course: Beef
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 tbsp Vegetable oil Helps sauté aromatics and beef; use any neutral oil if needed.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Adds depth and fragrance; fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
  • 1 small Shallot (finely chopped) Enhances sweetness and complexity; substitute with onion if necessary.
  • 1 lb Ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio) The main protein providing richness; leaner options may require additional moisture.
  • 2 tbsp Soy sauce Adds umami and saltiness; use tamari for a gluten-free version.
  • 1 tbsp Oyster sauce Contributes to umami flavor; can substitute with a plant-based version or soy-based stir-fry sauce.
  • 1 tsp Brown sugar Balances flavors with sweetness; honey or maple syrup can be alternatives.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh lime juice Brightens the dish with acidity; substitute with lemon if needed.
  • 1/2 tsp Chili flakes Provides heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
  • 1 cup Fresh Thai basil leaves (chopped) Key flavor component for these Thai Basil Beef Rolls; regular basil can be used as a substitute.
For Assembly
  • 8-10 sheets Rice paper wrappers Encapsulates fillings; opt for thinner, Vietnamese-style wrappers for the best results.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh mint leaves (optional) Enhances freshness; can be omitted if unavailable.
  • 1/2 cup Cilantro leaves (optional) Adds herbal flavor; consider omitting based on your preference.
  • 1/4 cup Green onion (sliced, optional) Provides a sharp bite; optional depending on taste.
  • 1/4 cup Julienned carrots or cucumbers (optional) Add crunch and color; omit if desired.
For Dipping Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Dipping sauce (soy-lime or chili-garlic blend) Complements rolls; customize based on your preference.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large plate

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Thai Basil Beef Rolls
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped shallots, sautéing for about 1 minute until they become fragrant and translucent.
  2. Introduce 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns a rich brown color and is no longer pink.
  3. Stir in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon of brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon of chili flakes. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice and 1 cup of chopped Thai basil. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
  5. Set up a rolling station with a large plate filled with warm water and the cooled beef filling nearby.
  6. Dip one rice paper wrapper into warm water for about 5–10 seconds until it's pliable, then carefully remove it. Place the soaked wrapper on a flat, clean surface.
  7. Spoon a portion of the beef filling near the bottom third of the rice paper wrapper. Add any additional herbs or julienned vegetables you desire.
  8. Fold the bottom of the rice paper over the filling, tucking it in gently. Then fold in the sides, and tightly roll the wrapper away from you.
  9. Continue to soak and fill the remaining rice paper wrappers with the beef mixture and any additional ingredients.
  10. Slice your rolls in half for presentation and arrange them on a serving platter. Pair with your choice of dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 2rollsCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Enjoy freshly made Thai Basil Beef Rolls right away for the best flavor. Store uncut rolls in an airtight container layered with a damp paper towel for up to 2 days.

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