Print

20 Minute Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe

20 Minute Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe

4.9 from 6 reviews

These 20 Minute Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a quick and flavorful appetizer or light meal featuring savory ground beef infused with aromatic Thai basil, garlic, ginger, and lemongrass. Wrapped in delicate rice paper with fresh herbs and creamy avocado, they bring a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors in a fresh, handheld roll.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef Mixture

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger paste
  • 1 tablespoon lemongrass, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 cup Thai basil leaves, torn
  • 2 scallions, julienned
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Assembly

  • Gem lettuce leaves or similar
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Rice paper rolls

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until well-browned, breaking it apart with a cooking spoon. This caramelization is essential for developing deep flavor.
  2. Add Aromatics and Spices: Once the beef is browned, add minced garlic, ginger paste, chopped lemongrass, and Chinese five-spice powder. Stir well to combine and let the flavors infuse the beef for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Incorporate Sauces and Shallots: Stir in the finely chopped shallots, soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Fold in Fresh Herbs: Turn off the heat and add torn Thai basil leaves, julienned scallions, and chopped cilantro. Gently fold them into the beef mixture so the herbs release their aroma but remain vibrant.
  5. Prepare Rice Paper and Fill: Soften rice paper rolls by briefly dipping them in warm water until pliable. Lay each sheet flat and place a gem lettuce leaf on it, then add a spoonful of the beef mixture followed by a few slices of avocado.
  6. Roll and Serve: Carefully fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling and roll tightly from the bottom up to form neat rolls. Serve immediately with extra sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Use fresh Thai basil for the authentic aroma and flavor; regular basil can be substituted if needed but flavor will differ.
  • Rice paper rolls can be found in most Asian markets or online; handle gently to avoid tearing.
  • For added crunch, include thinly sliced cucumber or shredded carrots inside the rolls.
  • These rolls are best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours in an airtight container.
  • Adjust sweet chili sauce amount according to your preferred level of sweetness and spiciness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai basil beef rolls, quick Thai recipes, rice paper rolls, easy appetizers, Thai beef rolls