High Protein Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Why Make This High Protein Thai Basil Beef Rolls

High Protein Thai Basil Beef Rolls are not just delicious; they’re also a fantastic way to pack protein into your meals. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, an appetizer for a gathering, or a light main course, these rolls are the perfect choice. The fusion of flavors from the Thai basil, garlic, and seasoned beef creates a mouthwatering experience that will excite your taste buds. Plus, they’re visually appealing, making them a hit at any dinner table.

How to Make High Protein Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Making these High Protein Thai Basil Beef Rolls is easier than you might think! You start with a simple filling of lean ground beef cooked with fragrant garlic and shallots, then combine it with fresh herbs for vibrant flavors. Wrapping the beef mixture in rice paper adds a pleasant chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the tender, seasoned filling. Follow the steps below, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready to impress friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small shallot (finely chopped)
• 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (93/7 or 95/5)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (or 1 minced Thai chili)
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (chopped)
• 8 rice paper wrappers (8-inch size)
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves (optional)
• 1/2 cup cilantro leaves (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced green onion (optional)
• 1/4 cup julienned carrots or cucumbers (optional)
• 1/4 cup dipping sauce (soy-lime or chili-garlic blend)

Directions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped shallot, stirring constantly for 60-90 seconds until fragrant and just starting to turn golden.
3. Add lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until completely browned with no pink remaining.
4. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to slightly reduce.
5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lime juice and chopped Thai basil. Let the filling cool for 10-15 minutes before rolling.
6. Fill a large shallow plate with warm water (about 100-110°F). Set up a rolling station with cooled beef filling, herbs, vegetables, and a clean damp towel nearby.
7. Dip one rice paper wrapper in warm water for 5-10 seconds, rotating to ensure even soaking. Place on a clean surface.
8. Add 3-4 tablespoons beef filling in a horizontal line 2 inches from the bottom edge. Top with mint, cilantro, green onion, and vegetables if using.
9. Fold the bottom edge up and over the filling, pulling taut but gently. Fold in both sides, then roll tightly toward the top edge. Place seam-side down and cover with a damp towel.
10. Using a sharp knife (slightly dampened), slice each roll in half on the diagonal. Serve immediately with dipping sauce.

Nutritional Information

With these High Protein Thai Basil Beef Rolls, you can enjoy a nutrient-rich meal. The approximate nutritional information per serving (2 rolls) is as follows:

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 700mg

How to Serve High Protein Thai Basil Beef Rolls

These rolls are incredibly versatile! Serve them as a starter at your next dinner party, or enjoy them as a light lunch. Pair them with a zesty soy-lime dipping sauce or a spicy chili-garlic blend to elevate the flavors. For a complete meal, consider offering a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables on the side.

How to Store High Protein Thai Basil Beef Rolls

If you have leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their freshness, keep the dipping sauce separate until you’re ready to serve. If they begin to dry out, you can lightly moisten the rice paper by spritzing it with water before enjoying.

Expert Tips for Perfect High Protein Thai Basil Beef Rolls

• Make Ahead: Prepare the beef filling a day in advance for quick assembly. Just let it cool completely before refrigerating.
• Soaking Rice Paper: Don’t soak the rice paper for too long. A quick dip is best, as it will continue to soften when you assemble your rolls.
• Tight Rolling: Keep the rolls tight but not too tight that they tear the rice paper. A gentle but firm touch works best.
• Herbs and Veggies: Feel free to customize the fresh herbs and vegetables based on your preference. Try adding shredded lettuce or bell peppers for extra crunch.

Delicious Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for finely chopped mushrooms and tofu for a vegetarian twist. Use soy sauce for flavor.
2. Spicy Heat: Add more chili flakes or use spicier chili sauces in the dipping sauce for those who love heat.
3. Rice Noodles: Incorporate cooked rice vermicelli noodles into the filling for added texture and heartiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute for a lighter option. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned to enhance the flavors.

How do I know when the rice paper is done soaking?

The rice paper should feel soft and slightly pliable but not mushy. It will continue to soften once you start assembling the rolls.

Can I freeze the filled rolls?

While you can freeze the cooked filling, it’s best to store the rolls uncooked in the refrigerator. Cooked rice paper may become soggy when frozen.

What can I serve as a dipping sauce?

A simple soy sauce blended with lime juice and a hint of honey is great. For a spicy kick, mix chili garlic sauce or even a peanut sauce.

How do I make the rolls look presentable?

Especially for gatherings, using a variety of colorful vegetables can make your rolls more visually appealing. A neat rolling technique also helps them look professional.

What if I can’t find Thai basil?

You can use regular basil or mint leaves instead. They will not give the same unique flavor but will still taste delicious.

How long should I cook the ground beef?

Cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned, which usually takes 6-8 minutes depending on your heat level.

Is there a way to make these rolls gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce to keep this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

Can I add other proteins?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in shrimp, chicken, or even diced tofu as part of the beef filling.

Are these rolls suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They are great for meal prep. Just assemble and keep the dipping sauce separate until serving.

Conclusion

High Protein Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy yet flavorful meal. They combine the rich tastes of seasoned beef with fresh herbs and vegetables, all wrapped up in a delicate rice paper. Ready in no time, this recipe offers a fun cooking experience that’s perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals. Give it a try, and discover a new family favorite—let me know how yours turn out!

High Protein Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Delicious and healthy rolls packed with protein, seasoned beef, and fresh herbs, wrapped in rice paper for a delightful snack or meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack

Cuisine: Thai

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Beef Filling

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small shallot (finely chopped)
• 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (93/7 or 95/5)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (or 1 minced Thai chili)
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (chopped)

Wrapping and Serving

• 8 pieces rice paper wrappers (8-inch size)
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves (optional)
• 1/2 cup cilantro leaves (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced green onion (optional)
• 1/4 cup julienned carrots or cucumbers (optional)
• 1/4 cup dipping sauce (soy-lime or chili-garlic blend)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped shallot, stirring constantly for 60-90 seconds until fragrant and just starting to turn golden.
3. Add lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until completely browned with no pink remaining.
4. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to slightly reduce.
5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lime juice and chopped Thai basil. Let the filling cool for 10-15 minutes before rolling.

Assembly

1. Fill a large shallow plate with warm water (about 100-110°F). Set up a rolling station with cooled beef filling, herbs, vegetables, and a clean damp towel nearby.
2. Dip one rice paper wrapper in warm water for 5-10 seconds, rotating to ensure even soaking. Place on a clean surface.
3. Add 3-4 tablespoons beef filling in a horizontal line 2 inches from the bottom edge. Top with mint, cilantro, green onion, and vegetables if using.
4. Fold the bottom edge up and over the filling, pulling taut but gently. Fold in both sides, then roll tightly toward the top edge. Place seam-side down and cover with a damp towel.

Serving

1. Using a sharp knife (slightly dampened), slice each roll in half on the diagonal. Serve immediately with dipping sauce.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep dipping sauce separate until serving. To maintain freshness, lightly moisten rice paper before enjoying.