Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

20 Minute Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 6 reviews

These 20 Minute Thai Basil Beef Rolls combine savory ground beef cooked with fragrant garlic, ginger, and Chinese five spice, wrapped in warm flour tortillas and topped with fresh cucumbers, cilantro, Thai basil, green onions, and crunchy roasted peanuts. Dressed with a spicy-sweet Thai chili sauce and served with chili paste and toasted sesame oil for dipping, this dish offers a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal inspired by Thai flavors.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Meat and Seasoning

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or chicken or pork)
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger (or 1/4 cup candied ginger)
  • 1-3 teaspoons Chinese 5 spice
  • 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup Thai chili sauce (see homemade version in notes)

Fresh Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus 2 tablespoons for mixing in beef)
  • 4 Persian cucumbers, chopped
  • 2 cups cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Thai basil, chopped

Other Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup chopped roasted peanuts
  • 8-10 flour tortillas, warmed
  • Chili paste, for serving
  • Toasted sesame oil, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef with black pepper. Break up the meat as it cooks until it is thoroughly browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add aromatics and spices: Stir in the chopped garlic, grated ginger, and Chinese five spice. Cook together for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Simmer with sauces: Pour in the tamari or soy sauce and Thai chili sauce. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef well, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped green onions, then remove the skillet from the heat.
  4. Warm the tortillas: Place one tortilla at a time in the microwave and heat for about 15 seconds until warm and pliable.
  5. Assemble the rolls: Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture down the center of each warmed tortilla. Top with chopped cucumbers, cilantro, Thai basil, the remaining green onions, and chopped roasted peanuts.
  6. Roll the tortillas: Fold the tortilla over the filling, then fold in the sides and ends securely and roll forward to create a neat wrap. Repeat this process with remaining tortillas and fillings.
  7. Serve: Serve the rolls warm with optional dipping sauces like extra soy sauce, chili paste, and toasted sesame oil. For a heartier meal, accompany the rolls with steamed rice on the side.

Notes

  • Homemade Thai chili sauce can be made by combining ketchup, rice vinegar, garlic, sugar, and chili flakes for a simple substitute.
  • Ground chicken or pork can be used interchangeably with beef according to preference.
  • Adjust the amount of Chinese five spice according to taste preference from 1 to 3 teaspoons.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute the flour tortillas with gluten-free wraps.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the beef mixture before assembling fresh rolls.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Thai