How to Make Thai-Style Green Papaya Salad (Som Tam)
Thai-Style Green Papaya Salad, known as Som Tam, is a refreshing and spicy dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. If you're looking to make an authentic Som Tam at home, follow this simple recipe.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare Som Tam, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of shredded green papaya
- 1 cup of shredded carrots
- 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1/4 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup of roasted peanuts, crushed
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions to Make Som Tam
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by peeling the green papaya and shredding it using a grater or a food processor. You can also cut it into thin strips. Do the same with the carrots. Place the shredded papaya and carrots in a large bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a mortar and pestle, combine the garlic and bird’s eye chilies. Pound them together until they form a paste. If you don't have a mortar and pestle, you can finely chop them instead.
Transfer the mixture to a small bowl and add fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Pour the dressing over the shredded papaya and carrot mixture. Add the cherry tomatoes and crushed peanuts. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring that the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Adjust the Flavor
Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You might want to add more lime juice for tanginess or fish sauce for saltiness, depending on your preference.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer your Som Tam to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve the salad immediately, ideally with sticky rice or grilled meats for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Som Tam
- Choose a firm green papaya that is not too ripe to achieve the right texture.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like green beans or dried shrimp to enhance flavors.
- For a vegetarian option, replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari.
Som Tam is a perfect dish for those who love bold flavors combined with fresh, crisp vegetables. Enjoy making this Thai classic and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!