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–+ servings

Authentic Thai Papaya Salad Recipe (Som Tam)

Thai papaya salad (som tam) in a ceramic bowl, topped with tomatoes, chilies, long beans, and peanuts, with sticky rice and fried chicken.
This easy Thai papaya salad is made with crisp vegetables and a tangy, spicy dressing. It’s gluten-free, low-carb, and full of authentic flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Serving Size 2

Equipment

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Julienne peeler
  • Mortar and pestle

Ingredients

  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 chilies to taste
  • roasted peanuts
  • yard long beans cut into 1–2 inch pieces
  • fresh lime juice
  • sugar
  • fish sauce
  • cherry tomatoes halved
  • green papaya shredded

Instructions

  • Shred the green papaya, halve the tomatoes, and cut the long beans into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a large mortar and pestle, lightly pound the garlic and chilies just until broken down.
  • Add peanuts plus long beans and gently pound to bruise them while keeping some crunch.
  • Add sugar, fish sauce, and fresh lime juice. Mix and pound lightly to blend the flavors.
  • Add shredded papaya and tomatoes. Use a spoon to toss while pounding gently, just enough to soften and combine everything.

Notes

  • Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and should be considered approximate.