Name: Thai Basil Beef Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp fish sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp minced garlic; 1 tsp chili flakes (optional); 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 12 rice paper wrappers; 1 cup Thai basil leaves; 1 cup cilantro; 1 carrot, julienned; 1 cucumber, julienned; 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced; Salt & pepper to taste

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These Thai Basil Beef Rolls are bursting with flavor and vibrant textures—perfect as a light meal, appetizer, or party snack. Tender marinated flank steak is wrapped in soft rice paper alongside crisp vegetables and aromatic herbs, making each bite fresh, spicy, and satisfying.

These rolls come together quickly with just a bit of prep and make a great gluten-free, dairy-free, and customizable dish for weeknight dinners or entertaining.

Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy & Fresh: Loaded with crunchy veggies and herbs
Protein-Packed: Flank steak adds a satisfying, savory bite
Naturally Gluten-Free: With no noodles or gluten-based sauces
Customizable: Easily sub in chicken, tofu, or shrimp
No Oven Needed: Perfect for hot weather

Ingredients

For the Beef & Marinade:

1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced into strips
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
Salt & pepper to taste

For the Rolls:

12 rice paper wrappers
1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1 medium cucumber, julienned
1 small carrot, julienned
1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced

For Serving (Optional):

Lime wedges
Dipping sauce (suggestion below)

Instructions

Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, mix fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic, and red chili flakes. Add thinly sliced beef and toss to coat. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes.

Cook the Beef

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear marinated beef for 3–4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Let cool slightly.

Prepare the Rice Paper

Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper in the water for 5–10 seconds until softened but still slightly firm. Place it on a clean surface like a damp towel or cutting board.

Assemble the Rolls

In the center of the rice paper, layer a few basil and cilantro leaves, then cucumber, carrot, and bell pepper. Top with a few pieces of the cooked beef.

Roll it Up

Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly from the bottom up like a burrito. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling ingredients.

Serve

Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. A simple blend of lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and a dash of chili works beautifully.

Optional Dipping Sauce Recipe

Whisk together:

2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 clove garlic, minced
Optional: pinch of chili flakes or sriracha

Variations

Vegetarian: Swap beef for tofu or tempeh marinated the same way.
Shrimp version: Use cooked shrimp tossed in the marinade.
Add noodles: For a more filling roll, add soaked vermicelli noodles.
Mint or Thai chili: Boost the herbs with mint or spicy Thai chili slices.

Make Ahead & Storage

Prep ahead: Cook the beef and prep veggies up to a day in advance.
Storage: Store assembled rolls in a single layer, wrapped tightly in plastic or covered with a damp paper towel in an airtight container. Best eaten within 24 hours.
Do not freeze: Rice paper texture becomes rubbery when thawed.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, assemble them just before serving. If storing, keep them tightly wrapped in a damp paper towel and plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Are these rolls spicy?
Not necessarily. The spice level comes from the chili flakes in the marinade and optional dipping sauce. Omit them for a milder version.

What if I can’t find Thai basil?
Regular basil works well too, though Thai basil offers a more peppery, anise-like flavor.

Can I grill the beef instead?
Absolutely! Grilling adds an extra layer of smokiness that complements the rolls beautifully.

What can I serve with these?
Pair with a side of jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or mango for a full Thai-inspired meal.

Conclusion

These Thai Basil Beef Rolls are the perfect fusion of bold flavor and refreshing ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner, meal-prep idea, or an impressive appetizer for entertaining, these rolls deliver on all fronts—sweet, salty, tangy, and just a touch spicy (if you like it that way!).

With minimal cooking and endless customization options, they’re a go-to for busy weeknights or warm-weather meals when you want something satisfying but not heavy. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to make.