Beef Rolls with Thai Basil and Bold Thai Spices are a fragrant, vibrant dish that combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic Thai basil wrapped in delicate rice paper. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory depth, herbal freshness, and gentle heat, making it ideal for entertaining, light dinners, or stylish appetizers.
Inspired by Thai street food flavors, these rolls are refreshing yet satisfying. Moreover, they are visually striking, easy to customize, and pair beautifully with bold dipping sauces, making them a favorite for parties, family gatherings, and warm-weather meals.
Servings
Servings: 4–6 servings (8–10 rolls)
Suitable as an appetizer, shared plate, or light main course.
Time Required for Beef Rolls with Thai Basil and Bold Thai Spices
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Prep Time: 25 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Assembly Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
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400 g beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced into strips
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8–10 rice paper wrappers
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100 g rice vermicelli noodles, cooked and cooled
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1 red bell pepper, julienned
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1 carrot, julienned
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1 cucumber, julienned
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30 g fresh Thai basil leaves
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20 g fresh cilantro leaves
Marinade & Thai Spices
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30 ml soy sauce
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15 ml fish sauce
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10 ml lime juice
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10 ml sesame oil
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10 g brown sugar
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2 cloves garlic, finely minced
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5 g fresh ginger, grated
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2 g chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Optional for Serving
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Toasted sesame seeds
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Thai chili dipping sauce or soy-based dipping sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Beef Rolls with Thai Basil and Bold Thai Spices
Step 1: Marinate the beef
First, place the beef strips in a bowl and add soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes. Mix well to coat evenly. Then, let the beef marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the bold Thai flavors.
Step 2: Cook the beef
Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and sear quickly, stirring often, until just cooked through and lightly caramelized. However, avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the filling components
Meanwhile, cook the rice vermicelli according to package instructions, then drain and cool completely. Prepare all vegetables and herbs, keeping them neatly arranged for easy assembly.
Step 4: Soften the rice paper
Then, fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for a few seconds until pliable. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
Step 5: Assemble the rolls
Place a small portion of noodles in the center of the wrapper. Next, layer beef, vegetables, Thai basil, and cilantro on top. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom to form a compact roll.
Step 6: Repeat and finish
Repeat with remaining ingredients until all rolls are assembled. Meanwhile, keep finished rolls covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
Step 7: Serve and garnish
Finally, slice the rolls in half if desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve immediately with dipping sauce.
Variations of Beef Rolls with Thai Basil and Bold Thai Spices
With Different Meat
Replace beef with grilled chicken, shrimp, or pork for a lighter or seafood-forward variation.
Vegetarian Version
Moreover, use marinated tofu or sautéed mushrooms instead of beef for a plant-based option with rich umami flavor.
Extra Spicy Version
Additionally, add fresh sliced Thai chilies or extra chili paste to the marinade for more heat.
Creamy Thai Twist
Serve the rolls with a peanut-lime dipping sauce for a richer, creamier contrast.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
In summer, add mango or papaya for sweetness; in cooler months, shredded cabbage adds crunch and body.
Tips for Perfect Results – Beef Rolls with Thai Basil and Bold Thai Spices
Slice beef correctly
Always slice against the grain to ensure tender, easy-to-bite pieces.
Balance flavors
Thai cuisine relies on harmony; therefore, taste the marinade and adjust sweet, salty, sour, and spicy elements gradually.
Do not oversoak rice paper
However, soaking too long makes wrappers fragile. A quick dip is sufficient.
Assemble just before serving
In addition, fresh assembly preserves texture, color, and aroma.
Storage advice
Store uncut rolls in an airtight container, wrapped with damp paper towels, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Avoid freezing, as it affects texture.
Final Thoughts
Beef Rolls with Thai Basil and Bold Thai Spices offer a vibrant culinary experience that is fresh, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. With tender beef, fragrant herbs, and lively Thai seasoning, these rolls bring restaurant-quality flavor to your table. Elegant yet approachable, they are perfect for entertaining, sharing, and enjoying the bold beauty of Thai-inspired cuisine.
