Name: Thai Basil Beef Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak, thinly sliced; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 tsp fish sauce (optional); 1 cup Thai basil leaves; 1 cup fresh mint leaves; 1 cup cilantro leaves; 8 large lettuce leaves; 1 cup cooked vermicelli noodles (optional); 12 rice paper wrappers

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a refreshing fusion of savory beef, fragrant herbs, and crisp vegetables, all bundled in delicate rice paper. They bring together the bold umami flavors of marinated steak with the cooling crunch of lettuce and aromatic Thai basil, wrapped like a gift and served with a sweet-spicy dipping sauce.

These rolls are perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a light yet satisfying dish. Whether served as an appetizer, party platter, or even a healthy lunch, they’re as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate. The transparent wrappers showcase the vibrant greens and juicy beef inside, making every bite a fresh explosion of flavor.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into making Thai Basil Beef Rolls, having the right tools at hand can make the entire process smoother and more enjoyable.

Sharp Chef’s Knife: Precision matters when slicing beef thinly. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts that cook evenly and fit well inside the rolls.
Cutting Board: Preferably a large, non-slip board for prepping multiple ingredients.
Mixing Bowl: For marinating the beef, letting all those umami flavors soak in.

Large Skillet or Grill Pan: To quickly sear the beef while locking in the juices.
Shallow Dish or Pie Pan: Essential for dipping the rice paper wrappers without tearing them.
Clean Damp Towel or Silicone Mat: Provides a non-stick surface for assembling the rolls.

Tongs or Chopsticks: Helpful for handling hot beef strips and delicate herbs.

Ingredients for the Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Each ingredient in this roll plays a purposeful role, balancing flavor and texture:

Flank Steak or Skirt Steak: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and packed with beefy flavor.

Soy Sauce: Adds umami depth to the beef marinade.
Oyster Sauce: Brings a rich, slightly sweet complexity.
Brown Sugar: Balances the saltiness with a touch of caramelized sweetness.

Garlic & Ginger: Essential aromatics that infuse the beef with classic Southeast Asian notes.
Fish Sauce (optional): A small dash goes a long way in adding authentic Thai flavor.
Thai Basil: The star herb—slightly spicy, sweet, and full of licorice aroma.

Fresh Mint and Cilantro: Provide a cooling, herbal balance to the savory meat.
Lettuce Leaves: Adds crunch and helps wrap the fillings neatly inside the roll.
Vermicelli Noodles (optional): Adds body and texture for a more filling roll.

Rice Paper Wrappers: The delicate, translucent vessels that tie everything together.

How To Make the Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Toss in thinly sliced beef and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If using fish sauce, add a teaspoon for extra depth.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated beef in batches for 1-2 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prep the Fresh Fillings

Wash and dry the lettuce, herbs, and any additional veggies you like. Cook and rinse vermicelli noodles if using. Set up your rolling station with all fillings nearby.

Step 4: Soften the Rice Paper

Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip each rice paper wrapper for about 10 seconds until pliable but not mushy. Lay flat on a damp towel or silicone mat.

Step 5: Assemble the Rolls

Place a small amount of lettuce, noodles, herbs, and a few beef strips near the bottom third of the wrapper. Fold the sides over, then roll tightly from the bottom up, like a burrito.

Step 6: Serve with Dipping Sauce

Serve your rolls immediately with hoisin-peanut sauce, nuoc cham (Vietnamese dipping sauce), or your favorite chili garlic blend.

How to Serve and Store Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are best served fresh, ideally within 30 minutes of assembly. Their crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and juicy beef shine brightest at room temperature. Arrange them on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces like hoisin-peanut, spicy sriracha mayo, or nuoc cham to cater to different flavor preferences.

For presentation, consider slicing them in half at an angle to show off the vibrant layers inside. Garnish with crushed peanuts, sesame seeds, or extra chopped basil for added flair.

Storing: If you need to prep ahead, store the components separately. Cook and chill the beef, prep the herbs and lettuce, and keep everything dry. Assemble only when ready to serve. If you do store assembled rolls, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Keep a damp paper towel over them to maintain moisture, but be aware the rice paper may harden slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep rice paper from tearing?

Use lukewarm water to soak the rice paper just until pliable—about 8-10 seconds. Work gently on a damp towel or silicone mat, which gives the wrapper some grip without sticking.

Can I use different proteins?

Absolutely! Try shrimp, shredded chicken, or tofu as delicious alternatives to beef. Just be sure to season them well.

Are these rolls gluten-free?

They can be! Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure your rice paper and sauces are labeled gluten-free.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes. Swap the beef with grilled tofu or tempeh, and double up on veggies like julienned carrots, cucumbers, or avocado slices.

What dipping sauces pair best?

Hoisin-peanut sauce is a classic, but spicy chili garlic, soy-ginger, or even mango chili sauce also work wonderfully.

Do the rolls travel well?

They can be tricky to transport as the wrappers may dry out or stick together. Wrap each roll individually and keep them cool until serving.

Want More Appetizer Ideas with a Twist?

If these Thai Basil Beef Rolls have you craving more bold and creative appetizers, check out some of our top picks from the site:

Taco Ranch Bites for a zesty Tex-Mex finger food.

Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes when you want comfort food in snack form.
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes if you’re in the mood for a messy-meets-savory bite.
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells as a heartier vegetarian option.

Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for a crispy, cheesy entrée that also works great sliced up in wraps.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can revisit it anytime: Follow me on Pinterest – Life With Olivia.

And let me know in the comments how your Thai Basil Beef Rolls turned out. Did you go spicy with the sauce or add in extra herbs? I’d love to hear your twist on it!

Questions are always welcome—let’s keep inspiring each other in the kitchen.

Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield: 12 rolls

Print Recipe

Description

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a light, flavor-packed appetizer made with tender marinated beef, fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables all wrapped in delicate rice paper. Perfect for gatherings or a fresh, healthy lunch, these rolls are best served with a bold dipping sauce.

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Add sliced beef and marinate for at least 30 minutes. Add fish sauce if using.

2. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated beef for 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Let it rest slightly before rolling.

3. Prepare your herbs, lettuce, and noodles. Set up a rolling station with all ingredients ready.

4. Dip one rice paper wrapper in warm water for about 10 seconds until pliable. Place it on a damp towel or silicone mat.

5. Add lettuce, herbs, noodles, and beef to the lower third of the wrapper. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito.

6. Serve immediately with hoisin-peanut sauce or your preferred dipping sauce.