Authentic Som Tam (Thai Papaya Salad) Recipe

Introduction:
Som Tam, also known as Thai Green Papaya Salad, is a refreshing, tangy, and slightly spicy dish that hails from the northeastern region of Thailand. This healthy and flavorful salad combines crunchy green papaya with a zesty dressing made from lime, fish sauce, and palm sugar. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, Som Tam is a must-try recipe for lovers of Thai cuisine.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 2 cups green papaya, shredded (unripe papaya)
• 1 medium carrot, shredded (optional for added color)
• 6 cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4-5 long beans (or green beans), cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2-3 cloves garlic
• 2-3 bird's eye chilies (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts
• Fresh cilantro (optional garnish)

For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegan option)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar as a substitute)
• 1 teaspoon tamarind paste (optional, for added tang)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and tamarind paste. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Taste and adjust the balance of salty, sweet, and sour flavors to your preference.

2. Pound the Garlic and Chilies:

   • Using a mortar and pestle, lightly pound the garlic and chilies until crushed. (If you don’t have a mortar and pestle, use the back of a spoon to crush them on a cutting board.)

3. Add Vegetables:

   • Add the long beans to the mortar and gently pound them to release their juices. Then, add shredded papaya, carrot, and cherry tomatoes. Lightly bruise the ingredients to mix in the flavors without breaking them too much.

4. Combine:

   • Pour the dressing over the salad in the mortar. Toss everything together using the pestle and a spoon, ensuring all the ingredients are coated evenly.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   • Transfer the salad to a plate or bowl. Top with roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro for garnish. Serve immediately.

Tips for the Perfect Som Tam:

• Choose the Right Papaya: Look for a firm, unripe green papaya to achieve the perfect crunch.
• Spice Level: Adjust the number of bird’s eye chilies to suit your heat tolerance.
• Add Protein: For a heartier version, add dried shrimp or grilled prawns.
• Make It Vegan: Swap fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce substitute.

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Conclusion:
Som Tam is an iconic Thai dish that brings together vibrant flavors in every bite. Whether you're hosting a Thai-themed dinner or craving a light, healthy meal, this authentic recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and bring a taste of Thailand to your kitchen!