Green Papaya Salad
2 servings
10 minutes
Green papaya salad, known as Som Tam, is a gem of Thai cuisine that embodies a harmony of freshness, spiciness, and zest. It originates from the northeastern region of Thailand where locals skillfully combine simple ingredients to create dishes with rich flavors. Crunchy green papaya soaked in a fragrant sauce of lime, fish sauce, and sugar reveals the perfect balance of sour, salty, and sweet. The heat from red chili pepper adds distinctive liveliness while unsalted peanuts and fresh cilantro provide a textural twist. This salad not only refreshes beautifully but also complements Thai hot dishes perfectly by enhancing their flavor and variety. Som Tam is a journey into the world of Thai gastronomy where every bite is filled with history and tradition.
1
Slice the papaya (or 2 green mangoes) into thin slices.
- Green papaya: 1 piece
2
Squeeze the juice from 2 limes and mix it in a bowl with fish sauce and sugar (ensure the sugar fully dissolves).
- Lime: 2 pieces
- Fish sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
3
Add papaya slices and chopped chili pepper to the sauce.
- Green papaya: 1 piece
- Red chili pepper: 2 pieces
4
Leave for 20 minutes.
5
Place on a plate and sprinkle with unsalted peanuts and chopped cilantro.
- Peanuts: 1 tablespoon
- Cilantro: to taste
