If you’ve ever visited Thailand or dined at a Thai restaurant, you’ve likely come across Som Tum, a refreshing and flavorful green papaya salad that perfectly balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. Making Som Tum at home is easier than you think, and it’s a fantastic way to add a taste of Thailand to your table. Here’s how to make this classic dish step by step.
What
is Som Tum?
Som Tum originates from the northeastern
region of Thailand, known as Isan. The dish traditionally features shredded
green papaya, but it also includes a variety of other ingredients that create
its signature bold flavor. It's a popular street food, often paired with sticky
rice and grilled meat.
Ingredients
Here’s What You’ll Need To Prepare
Som Tum:
Base
Ingredients:
- 1 cup green papaya
(shredded)
- 1/4 cup carrots
(shredded, optional)
- 6 cherry tomatoes
(halved)
- 4-5 green beans
(trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
Dressing:
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 2-3 bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian version)
- 1 teaspoon palm sugar
(or brown sugar)
- 1-2 tablespoons dried shrimp (optional)
Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts (crushed)
- Fresh cilantro
(for garnish)
Step-by-Step
Instructions
1.
Prepare The Papaya
Peel the green papaya and shred it
into thin strips using a julienne peeler or a sharp knife. Place the shredded
papaya in a large mixing bowl. If you’re using carrots, shred them similarly
and mix them with the papaya.
2.
Make The Dressing
Using a mortar and pestle (or a
sturdy bowl and a muddler), pound the garlic and chilies together until they
form a rough paste. Add the palm sugar, lime juice, fish sauce, and dried shrimp
(if using). Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
3.
Combine The Salad
Add the green beans, cherry
tomatoes, and shredded papaya to the mortar or mixing bowl. Gently pound and
mix the ingredients together to allow the flavors to meld. Be careful not to over-pulverize
the vegetables; they should retain their crunch.
4.
Add Toppings
Transfer the salad to a serving dish
and sprinkle with roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro.
5.
Serve And Enjoy
Som Tum is best served fresh. Pair
it with sticky rice, grilled chicken, or enjoy it on its own as a light and
refreshing meal.
Tips For The Perfect Som Tum
- Adjust the heat:
Start with fewer chilies if you’re sensitive to spice, and add more to
taste.
- Make it vegetarian:
Replace fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce substitute.
- Add variety:
Experiment with ingredients like green mango, cucumber, or even shredded
apples for a unique twist.
Som Tum is a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Its vibrant flavors are sure to brighten any meal, and the balance of textures makes every bite exciting. Try making it today and experience a taste of Thailand in your own kitchen!
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