Savory Green Papaya Salad
This vibrant Thai-inspired salad features crisp, unripe green papaya, shredded carrots, and cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty, spicy, and savory dressing. It's a refreshing, fiber-rich dish that delivers authentic Southeast Asian flavors without being overly sweet.
For 4 servings
Prepare the vegetables: Peel the green papaya, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and shred using a julienne peeler or a mandoline. Shred the carrot. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Trim the green beans and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
Make the dressing base: In a large mortar and pestle, add the garlic cloves and bird's eye chilies. Pound until a coarse paste forms. Add the chopped palm sugar and continue to pound until it dissolves into the garlic-chili mixture.
Combine the dressing: Add the fresh lime juice and fish sauce to the mortar. Stir well with the pestle to combine all the dressing ingredients. Taste and adjust for your preferred balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.
Assemble the salad: Add the green beans to the mortar with the dressing. Lightly pound them a few times to bruise them slightly, which helps them absorb the flavors. Add the shredded green papaya, shredded carrot, and halved cherry tomatoes to the mortar.
Toss and bruise: Using the pestle and a spoon, gently pound and toss the ingredients together in the mortar. This technique helps to lightly bruise the papaya and vegetables, allowing them to absorb the dressing more effectively and release their natural juices. Continue for 1-2 minutes until well combined.
Taste and serve: Taste the salad and adjust any seasonings if needed (more lime for sourness, fish sauce for saltiness, sugar for sweetness, or chilies for heat). Transfer the salad to a serving dish.
Garnish: Sprinkle generously with crushed roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro (if using) just before serving. Serve immediately to enjoy its crisp texture.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Authentic Shredding: For the best texture, use a traditional Thai papaya shredder or a sturdy julienne peeler. Avoid using a food processor, which can make the papaya too watery.
- 2Mortar and Pestle Magic: While a large bowl works, using a mortar and pestle is key to an authentic Som Tum (papaya salad). The pounding action bruises the ingredients, releasing their flavors and creating a more integrated, complex taste.
- 3Adjusting Spice: Start with one chili and add more to taste. For less heat, remove the seeds from the chilies. For more, add extra chilies or a pinch of chili flakes.
- 4Freshness is Key: This salad is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. The papaya will soften over time, losing its signature crunch.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken strips, or pan-fried tofu cubes for a more substantial meal.
Vegetarian/VeganVegetarian/Vegan
Substitute fish sauce with a high-quality vegetarian 'fish' sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a pinch of seaweed for umami. Ensure palm sugar is vegan-friendly.
Nut AlternativesNut Alternatives
If peanuts are an issue, crushed cashews or toasted sesame seeds can be used as a delicious alternative for crunch.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Fiber
Green papaya is an excellent source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion, promoting gut health, and contributing to a feeling of fullness.
Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants
Packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin A (from carrots), and various antioxidants, this salad supports immune function and helps combat oxidative stress.
Low in Calories and Sugar
As an unripe fruit, green papaya is naturally low in sugar and calories, making this salad a light and healthy option that fits various dietary goals.
Frequently asked questions
No, ripe papaya has a sweet flavor and soft texture that is not suitable for this savory salad. Green (unripe) papaya is essential for its crisp texture and neutral flavor profile.
