Thai Basil Beef Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Introduction
Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a fresh and flavorful dish that combines savory ground beef with aromatic Thai basil, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. This easy-to-make appetizer or light meal is perfect for those who enjoy vibrant Southeast Asian flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 8 large lettuce leaves (such as iceberg or butter lettuce)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Step 2: Stir in the soy sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes to season the beef well.
- Step 3: Remove from heat and mix in the fresh Thai basil leaves, allowing the residual heat to wilt them slightly.
- Step 4: Spoon the beef mixture onto individual lettuce leaves, wrap them up, and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, add sliced fresh chili or a drizzle of chili garlic sauce to the beef while cooking.
- Substitute ground chicken or turkey if you prefer a leaner option.
- Add chopped garlic and ginger when cooking the beef for a deeper flavor.
Storage
Store leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce leaves separate to avoid sogginess. Reheat the beef gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling your rolls.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular basil instead of Thai basil?
Regular sweet basil can be used if Thai basil is unavailable, though the flavor will be milder and less peppery. It still works well in this dish.
Can these rolls be made ahead of time?
Prepare the beef mixture in advance and refrigerate. Keep lettuce leaves separate and assemble the rolls just before serving to maintain crispiness.
PrintThai Basil Beef Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a flavorful and fresh appetizer featuring seasoned ground beef wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves with aromatic Thai basil, offering a light and tasty bite that’s perfect for sharing or a quick snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 8 large lettuce leaves (such as Boston or butter lettuce)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the beef mixture: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Season the beef: Stir in the soy sauce, sugar if using, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the rolls: Lay out the lettuce leaves on a serving platter. Place a spoonful of the cooked beef mixture onto each leaf, then top with several Thai basil leaves. Wrap the lettuce around the filling to form a roll.
- Serve: Serve the Thai Basil Beef Rolls immediately as a fresh appetizer or light meal. Optionally, accompany with a dipping sauce such as a sweet chili sauce or extra soy sauce.
Notes
- For extra spice, add chopped fresh chili to the beef while cooking.
- Use butter lettuce or Boston lettuce for sturdier wraps that hold the filling well.
- These rolls are best eaten fresh to keep the lettuce crisp.
- Can be adapted with ground chicken or pork as alternatives to beef.
- To reduce sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce.
Keywords: Thai basil beef rolls, lettuce wraps, ground beef appetizer, Thai appetizer, fresh basil rolls, easy Thai recipe
