Authentic Thai Green Papaya Salad with Shrimp: A Twist on Som Tum

When it comes to authentic Thai cuisine, one dish that truly captures the essence of flavors and textures is Green Papaya Salad, also known as Som Tum. This refreshing and vibrant salad combines the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Today, we’re putting a twist on this classic dish by adding succulent shrimp to elevate it to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Green Papaya Salad with Shrimp is the perfect dish for those who love bold and exotic flavors. The crunchy green papaya, crisp vegetables, juicy shrimp, and zesty dressing create a symphony of tastes and textures that will delight your taste buds and transport you to the bustling streets of Thailand.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 green papaya, peeled and grated
• 1/2 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup green beans, sliced
• 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, minced (adjust to taste)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar
• Salt to taste

These ingredients can easily be found at your local Asian grocery store or supermarket, ensuring that you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.

How to Make Green Papaya Salad with Shrimp

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated green papaya, cherry tomatoes, green beans, cilantro, mint leaves, and roasted peanuts.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, minced garlic, and Thai bird’s eye chilies to create the dressing.
3. Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. Set aside to cool.
4. Add the cooked shrimp to the salad ingredients and pour the dressing over the top. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, fish sauce, lime juice, or sugar according to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Green Papaya Salad with Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh and chilled, making it the perfect dish for hot summer days or as a refreshing side to your favorite Thai curry. Serve it as a light lunch or as a starter at your next dinner party to impress your guests with your culinary skills.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Thai cuisine or looking to explore new flavors, Green Papaya Salad with Shrimp is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and satisfying textures, this dish is a true celebration of the rich culinary heritage of Thailand.

So why not spice up your next meal with a taste of Thailand? Try this twist on Som Tum and transport your taste buds to the tropical paradise of Southeast Asia.