If you enjoy fresh, savory flavors with a little kick, these Thai basil beef rolls wrapped in rice paper are a great choice. They’re light yet satisfying, easy to put together, and work well for lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer.
The combination of juicy beef, aromatic Thai basil, and soft rice paper creates a balance of taste and texture that doesn’t feel heavy. You can serve them warm or at room temperature, making them very flexible for everyday cooking.
What Makes These Beef Rolls Special
Thai basil has a bold, slightly peppery flavor that pairs beautifully with beef. Wrapped in rice paper, the rolls stay light while still feeling filling.
These rolls are:
- High in protein
- Naturally gluten-free
- Fresh, not oily
- Easy to customize
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
For the Beef Filling
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves, loosely packed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For Wrapping
- 10–12 rice paper sheets
- Warm water (for softening rice paper)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat (180°C / 350°F). Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart until fully cooked and lightly browned.
Step 2: Season the Filling
Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.
Turn off the heat and gently mix in Thai basil leaves. The heat will wilt them without losing flavor. Let the filling cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice Paper
Fill a wide bowl with warm water. Dip one rice paper sheet into the water for 5–8 seconds until soft but not too sticky.
Place it on a clean surface.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Spoon some beef filling onto the center of the rice paper. Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly from the bottom up.
Repeat with remaining filling and rice paper sheets.
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Serving Ideas
- Serve with a simple chili garlic sauce
- Pair with fresh cucumber slices
- Add a squeeze of lime juice before eating
Tips & Easy Swaps
- If Thai basil is not available, use regular basil with a small pinch of mint
- For leaner rolls, use ground sirloin or ground chicken
- Add sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch
Storage Notes
These rolls are best eaten fresh. If needed, store them in an airtight container with a damp paper towel on top and consume within 24 hours.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef filling in advance and assemble the rolls just before serving.
Are rice paper rolls healthy?
Rice paper is light and low in fat, making it a good wrap option when filled with protein and herbs.
Can I pan-sear the rolls?
Yes, lightly pan-sear them for a crispy outside if you prefer a warm, golden finish.
These Thai basil beef rice paper rolls are the kind of meal that feels fresh but still comforting. They don’t take long to make, and the flavors are bold without being overwhelming. Once you try them, they’re easy to add into your regular meal rotation—especially on days when you want something different without extra effort.
