A crisp and refreshing Thai salad, Green Papaya Salad, also known as Som Tum, combines shredded green papaya with a tangy, spicy dressing and a mix of other vibrant ingredients like carrots and tomatoes. It's a perfect dish to enjoy on a warm day.
Peel the green papaya and shred it into thin strips using a julienne peeler or a grater.
Soak the dried shrimp in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain.
In a mortar and pestle, pound the garlic and chilies to a coarse paste.
Add the palm sugar, fish sauce, and lime juice to the garlic and chili mixture and mix until the sugar dissolves.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded green papaya, carrot, cherry tomatoes, and soaked dried shrimp.
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss well to coat evenly.
Add crushed peanuts and chopped cilantro and toss everything together again.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional peanuts and lime wedges on the side.
