Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a bold and vibrant handheld meal or appetizer, featuring juicy ground beef stir-fried with garlic, chilies, and fresh Thai basil, all wrapped in crisp lettuce or rice paper. Bursting with savory umami, fragrant herbs, and just the right amount of heat, these rolls offer a fresh, fun, and flavorful twist on traditional Thai street food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These rolls pack all the flavor of Thai basil beef (Pad Krapow) into a portable, low-carb, and refreshing wrap. They’re easy to assemble, incredibly satisfying, and customizable to your spice preference. Whether you serve them as a light meal, party appetizer, or part of a larger spread, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and can be made in under 30 minutes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Thai basil beef:

• Ground beef (85–90% lean)
• Garlic, minced
• Red Thai chilies or bird’s eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• Shallot or onion, finely diced
• Fish sauce
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Oyster sauce (optional for depth)
• Brown sugar or palm sugar
• Fresh Thai basil leaves

For assembly:

• Butter lettuce leaves or rice paper wrappers
• Julienned carrots
• Cucumber sticks
• Red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, or more basil)
• Cooked vermicelli noodles (optional)
• Lime wedges, for serving

directions

1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and sauté garlic and chilies until fragrant.
2. Add shallots and cook until softened, then add ground beef. Stir-fry until browned and cooked through.
3. Stir in fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until well combined and slightly caramelized.
4. Turn off the heat and stir in Thai basil until wilted. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. To assemble, place a few spoonfuls of beef into each lettuce leaf or softened rice paper wrap. Add your choice of vegetables and herbs.
6. Serve with lime wedges and extra herbs on the side.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: approx. 25 minutes

Variations

• Substitute ground chicken, turkey, or pork for beef.
• Use rice paper wraps for a spring roll-style presentation.
• Add crushed peanuts or crispy shallots for texture.
• Serve with a dipping sauce like sweet chili, peanut sauce, or lime fish sauce.
• Include jasmine rice or sticky rice for a more filling version.

storage/reheating

Store the cooked beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving. Keep the vegetables and lettuce or wrappers separate to maintain freshness. Assembled rolls are best enjoyed fresh and not recommended for freezing.

FAQs

What kind of basil should I use?

Thai basil is ideal for its unique, slightly spicy, anise-like flavor. If unavailable, use Italian basil, but expect a different (milder) taste.

How spicy are these rolls?

It depends on the amount and type of chili you use. Red Thai or bird’s eye chilies are very hot—adjust to your heat preference or omit for a milder version.

Can I use rice instead of lettuce?

Yes, serve the basil beef over jasmine or sticky rice for a more traditional meal instead of wraps.

Are these rolls gluten-free?

Yes, if you use tamari instead of soy sauce and confirm your sauces are gluten-free.

Can I make them vegetarian?

Use crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative, and substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce.

How do I soften rice paper wrappers?

Dip each wrapper in warm water for 5–10 seconds until pliable, then fill and roll immediately.

What vegetables work best?

Crisp, fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, and cabbage add crunch and contrast to the savory beef.

Can I prep these ahead?

Yes, prep all components in advance and assemble just before serving to keep the rolls fresh and crisp.

What can I serve with these?

Pair with a light soup, Thai iced tea, or a cucumber salad for a complete meal.

How do I keep lettuce wraps from falling apart?

Use sturdy leaves like butter lettuce or romaine, and don’t overfill. Double layering can help too.

Conclusion

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a flavorful, easy, and fun way to enjoy the bold taste of Thai cuisine in a fresh and healthy format. With a balance of savory beef, fragrant herbs, crunchy veggies, and a zesty kick, they’re ideal for quick dinners, entertaining, or anytime you’re craving something delicious and different. Give them a try—you’ll be hooked after the first bite.

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