How to Make Thai-style Papaya Salad with Peanuts
Thai-style papaya salad, also known as Som Tum, is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines flavors and textures, making it a favorite among Thai cuisine enthusiasts. This salad typically features crunchy green papaya, zesty lime, and savory peanuts, providing a delightful balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. Follow this guide to learn how to make a delicious Thai-style papaya salad with peanuts at home.
Ingredients
To prepare Thai-style papaya salad, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups green papaya, shredded
- 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
- 2-3 Thai bird's eye chilies (adjust to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons fish sauce (or vegetarian alternative)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Fresh Thai basil or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Thai-style papaya salad:
1. Prepare the Papaya
Use a sharp vegetable peeler to peel the green papaya. Once peeled, slice it in half and remove the seeds. Using a mandoline or a grater, shred the papaya into thin strips. Add the shredded papaya to a mixing bowl.
2. Add the Carrots
Shred the carrots in a similar fashion to the papaya and add them to the mixing bowl. This will add a touch of sweetness and color to your salad.
3. Make the Dressing
To create the dressing, in a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar. Mix well until the palm sugar is fully dissolved. Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness, saltiness, or acidity according to your preference.
4. Combine the Ingredients
Finely chop the Thai bird's eye chilies and add them to the bowl with the shredded papaya and carrots. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together. Be gentle to avoid breaking the papaya strands too much.
5. Add Peanuts and Tomatoes
Fold in the chopped peanuts and halved cherry tomatoes (if using) into the salad. The peanuts will add a delicious crunch, while the tomatoes can enhance the freshness of the dish.
6. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the salad to a serving plate. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh Thai basil or cilantro. Thai-style papaya salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it immediately as a side dish or a light meal.
Tips for the Perfect Papaya Salad
- Choose a firm, green papaya. The texture is crucial for this salad.
- Adjust the level of spice according to your taste; you can omit the chilies for a milder salad.
- Add other ingredients like green beans or dried shrimp for variations.
Thai-style papaya salad with peanuts is not only delicious but also healthy, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this flavorful dish that captures the essence of Thai cooking!