How to Make Thai-Style Papaya Salad with Dried Shrimp
Thai-style papaya salad, known as Som Tum, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that balances flavors of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. Making this salad with dried shrimp adds a depth of flavor that complements the fresh ingredients perfectly. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own Thai-style papaya salad at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups green papaya, shredded
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup long green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup dried shrimp, rinsed and roughly chopped
- 2–3 Thai bird's eye chilies (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- Chopped peanuts for garnish
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by shredding the green papaya. You can use a box grater or a food processor for this task. Once shredded, place it in a bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a mortar and pestle, combine the bird's eye chilies and palm sugar. Grind them until you achieve a paste. Add the rinsed and chopped dried shrimp, then continue to pound a bit.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add fish sauce and lime juice to the mixture. Mix everything well to create a flavorful dressing.
Step 4: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded papaya, cherry tomatoes, and green beans. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently. Make sure all the components are coated evenly with the dressing.
Step 5: Adjust to Taste
At this point, taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed. If you prefer it spicier, add more chilies, or for added sweetness, incorporate a bit more palm sugar.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving platter and garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Thai-Style Papaya Salad
- Choose the Right Papaya: Select green papayas that are firm to the touch for the best texture.
- Customize It: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like shredded carrots or even corn for added sweetness.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare your ingredients in advance, but mix them just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
This Thai-style papaya salad with dried shrimp is a delightful dish that not only brings the flavors of Thailand to your kitchen but also offers a healthy and satisfying meal. Enjoy it alongside grilled meats or as a refreshing standalone dish!