SPICY GREEN PAPAYA SALAD (SOM TAM)

Papaya salad is a famous dish found on Thai menus around the world. It’s crunchy, sweet, spicy, savory, and embodies all of the flavors of Thai cooking. Pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or beef. 

INGREDIENTS:

3 oz raw green papaya, peeled and cut into long thin strips (green papaya can be found in most International markets, but zucchini, kohlrabi, or even cabbage makes a good substitute)
2 cloves garlic, peeled 
1-2 green bird’s eye chilies 
¾ oz long green beans (or French green beans), cut into ¾” pieces 
1 oz unsalted roasted peanuts 
1 ¼ oz halved cherry tomatoes 
2 pieces dried bird’s eye chili
¾ oz dried shrimp
1 tbsp tamarind juice 
1 ½ tbsp palm sugar 
1 ½ tbsp fish sauce 
1 tbsp lime juice 

Tools 
Mortar and pestle or small food processor 
Large bowl
Cutting board 
Knife

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a mortar, pound the garlic and green bird’s eye chilies. 
2. Add the beans, dried shrimp, peanuts, tomatoes and roughly pound. Alternatively, combine the above ingredients in a small food processor and pulse until finely chopped. 
3. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and stir in the tamarind juice, palm sugar, fish sauce, and lime juice. Mix well. 
4. Add the papaya and stir until well combined. 
5. Transfer to a serving dish.