Spicy Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum)

A crisp and tangy Thai salad featuring shredded green papaya, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy peanuts, and a fiery lime dressing that perfectly balances heat and zest.

Steps

1. Peel and shred the green papaya using a grater or a knife.
2. In a mortar and pestle, pound garlic and chilies until roughly crushed.
3. Add palm sugar, fish sauce, and lime juice to the mortar and mix well to create the dressing.
4. Add the shredded papaya, cherry tomatoes, dried shrimp (if using), and green beans into the mortar. Gently pound and toss the ingredients to combine and absorb the dressing.
5. Transfer the salad to a plate and sprinkle roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro on top.
6. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.