These vibrant Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a delightful fusion of spicy, sweet, tangy, and salty flavors. Ground beef is cooked with aromatic spices and sauces, then wrapped in warm tortillas with fresh vegetables and herbs. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for gatherings. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite a satisfying experience.
1½ pounds ground beef (or chicken or pork)
Black pepper, to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
1–3 teaspoons Chinese 5 spice
⅓ cup tamari or soy sauce
¼ cup Thai chili sauce (see homemade version below)
¼ cup chopped green onions
4 Persian cucumbers, chopped
2 cups cilantro, chopped
½ cup Thai basil, chopped
⅓ cup chopped roasted peanuts
8–10 flour tortillas, warmed
Chili paste, for serving
Toasted sesame oil, for serving
Homemade Sweet Thai Chili Sauce:
⅓ cup honey
2 tablespoons ketchup
1–2 tablespoons chili sauce
2 teaspoons lime zest
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons tamari or soy sauce
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 clove grated garlic
Prepare the Beef Filling:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with black pepper over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and Chinese 5 spice to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Stir in the tamari or soy sauce and Thai chili sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce coats the beef, about 3–5 minutes.
Remove from heat and fold in 2 tablespoons of chopped green onions.
Assemble the Rolls:
Place one tortilla on a flat surface.
Spoon a portion of the beef mixture down the center of the tortilla.
Top with chopped cucumbers, cilantro, Thai basil, remaining green onions, and roasted peanuts.
Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly to enclose the filling.
Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Serve:
Serve the rolls warm with chili paste and toasted sesame oil on the side for dipping.
For a complete meal, serve the rolls alongside steamed rice.
Calories: 392 kcal
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg