Fiery green papaya salad with dried shrimp and peanuts
Spicy Thai Papaya Salad
Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
0 min
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2
2 servings
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Budget
$
Spicy Thai Papaya Salad
Fiery green papaya salad with dried shrimp and peanuts
★4.4(23)
A punchy, fiery salad of shredded green papaya pounded with chilies, garlic, tomatoes, dried shrimp, and peanuts. The dressing hits every flavor note: sour, sweet, salty, and spicy.
20m
Prep Time
0m
Cook Time
20m
Total Time
2
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Budget $
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
Som tum is the undisputed queen of Thai salads — a mortar-pounded masterpiece where raw garlic and bird's eye chilies meld with palm sugar, lime, and fish sauce into an electrifying dressing.
Asian cuisine encompasses an incredible diversity of techniques and flavors. This recipe draws on time-tested methods to create something truly delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded green papaya
- 4-6 bird's eye chilies
- 2 tbsp dried shrimp
- 2 tbsp roasted peanuts
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- 1
Pound garlic and chilies in a mortar until crushed but not completely smooth.
- 2
Add dried shrimp and peanuts, pound lightly to crack them.
- 3
Add green beans (cut into 1-inch pieces) and tomato wedges. Bruise gently.
- 4
Add shredded papaya and pound while tossing, pressing to release juices.
- 5
Season with fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar. Toss, taste, and adjust. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve over steamed jasmine or sticky rice
Pair with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi
Add a drizzle of sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor
Serve as a light main course or alongside grilled protein
Substitutions
Green papayaShredded green mango or kohlrabi
Both provide the needed crunch and mild flavor
Dried shrimpSoy sauce (extra splash)
Makes it vegetarian-friendly with added umami
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Use a large clay or wooden mortar — metal bowls do not allow proper bruising of ingredients.
Adjust chilies to your heat tolerance. Four chilies is medium-spicy; six or more is Thai-spicy.
Dry your greens thoroughly — water on the leaves dilutes the dressing and makes everything soggy.
Dress your salad just before serving. Pre-dressed salads wilt quickly, especially delicate greens.
Storage
Best eaten immediately. The papaya softens quickly once dressed.
Reheating
Not applicable — this is a cold salad meant to be eaten fresh.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (45mg) · 2 servings
Calories160
LowModerateHigh
A light, low-calorie option · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein8g
Carbohydrates4g
Fat22g
Fiber920mg
Sugar4g
Sodium10g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where do I find green papaya?
- Asian grocery stores carry them. Look for firm, unripe papayas with green skin.
- Can I make it without a mortar?
- Yes, thinly slice everything and toss in a bowl, though the texture and flavor integration will differ.
Explore More
About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
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