Craving a vibrant and flavorful meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these delicious Thai Basil Rolls! This recipe offers a fun twist on classic Thai flavors, perfectly balancing fresh herbs, savory ground meat, and a touch of sweet chili sauce. Forget complicated takeout orders – these rolls are quick to assemble and bursting with authentic Thai taste, making them ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. They're also incredibly versatile; feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
These delightful Thai Basil Rolls are not only delicious but also a visually appealing dish, perfect for impressing friends and family. Ready to create your own flavorful masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below and get cooking!
Tools Needed
- Vegetable peeler
- Scissors
Ingredients
- Green onion
- Purple basil
- Thai basil
- Fresh lettuce
- Multicolored carrots
- Cucumber
- Rice noodles
- Thai sweet chili sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Peanut butter
- Lime juice
- Water
- Rotisserie chicken
- Shrimp (optional)
- Rice paper wrappers
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice green onions lengthwise and soak in water. Slice basil leaves. Cut ribs out of lettuce. Julienne carrots using a vegetable peeler. Cut cucumber into strands, removing seeds.
- Soak in warm water for about 5 minutes until soft. Cut into smaller pieces with scissors. Do not rinse.
- In a pan, combine Thai sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, and simmer for 10 minutes. Add peanut butter and stir until creamy. Add lime juice and adjust acidity with water or more vinegar to taste.
- Pull meat from rotisserie chicken. Prepare shrimp (if using).
Step 2. Assemble the Rolls
- Dip rice paper wrappers briefly in warm water (not too hot). Lay flat on a plate. Add desired ingredients: lettuce, carrots, cucumber, noodles, chicken, shrimp (optional), basil.
Step 3. Roll and Serve
- Fold the rice paper over the ingredients, tucking in the sides, and rolling tightly.
- Serve and enjoy with the peanut sauce and/or Thai sweet chili sauce.
Read more: Crispy Baked Thai Spring Rolls: Grease-Free & Delicious
Tips
- Soaking green onions in water keeps them fresh and crisp.
- Using multicolored carrots adds visual appeal.
- Adjust the sauce consistency to your liking by adding water or vinegar.
- Don't rinse the rice noodles after soaking, as this will make them gummy.
- Let family members assemble their own rolls for a fun and personalized experience.
- Laying the leaves down first makes the rolls visually appealing.
Nutrition
- Fat: 15-25gg
- Carbs: 40-55gg
- Protein: 20-30gg
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat in the Thai Basil Rolls?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even tofu work well as substitutes for ground beef. Adjust seasonings to complement your chosen protein.
2. What if I don't have rice paper wrappers? Can I use something else?
While rice paper wrappers are ideal, large lettuce leaves (like butter lettuce or romaine) can be used as a substitute. Just be aware that the rolls might not hold together as well.
So there you have it – a quick, delicious, and family-friendly Thai Basil Rolls recipe that's sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the satisfying flavors and the fun of assembling these vibrant rolls together. Happy cooking!