Som Tam: Thai Green Papaya Salad

Som Tam: Thai Green Papaya Salad

Som tam is a fiery sweet-sour salad of shredded green papaya with chilli, lime, fish sauce and peanuts. Pounded in a mortar right on the street, it is considered all of Thailand's favourite dish.

History of the dish

Som tam originates from Isan (north-east Thailand) but conquered the whole country and the world. Traditionally made in a clay mortar: ingredients are bruised rather than ground, preserving texture.

Key ingredients

Green papaya (shredded), tomato, long beans, chilli (to taste), garlic, fish sauce, lime, palm sugar, peanuts, dried shrimp.

How to cook at home

No green papaya? Substitute kohlrabi or green mango. Balance: sour (lime), sweet (sugar), salty (fish sauce), hot (chilli). Taste and adjust.