Som Tam, or spicy papaya salad, is a vibrant and iconic dish of Thai cuisine, known for its explosive flavors and refreshing crunch. This isn't your average salad; it's a symphony of sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and bitter notes, all expertly balanced to create an unforgettable culinary experience. The addition of crisp morning glory adds a delightful textural contrast to the already captivating mix of shredded green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and chilies. This recipe offers a delicious and authentic version of this beloved Thai street food, perfect for both seasoned Thai food lovers and curious newcomers alike.
This particular recipe elevates the classic Som Tam by incorporating perfectly blanched and crispy morning glory, adding another layer of flavor and texture to the already complex dish. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a journey into the heart of Thailand, one perfectly balanced bite at a time. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create your own Som Tam with Morning Glory!
Tools Needed
- Mortar and Pestle
Ingredients
- Papaya
- Red Chillies
- Bird's Eye Chillies
- Garlic
- Palm Sugar
- Fish Sauce
- Lime Juice: 1 lime
- MSG
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Tamarind Tomatoes
- Tamarind Paste
- Morning Glory
- Fresh Shrimp or Pork Sausage
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Spicy Dressing
- Adding garlic is optional, but may dull the flavour if pounding eggs).
- If the salad lacks juice, emphasize the tamarind juice by soaking it in warm water.)
- Boiling your own fish sauce will help you understand and adjust seasoning better).
- Pound all ingredients until well-combined. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
Step 2. Incorporate Vegetables and Protein
- Add thinly sliced morning glory (previously soaked in ice water). Mix gently using a spatula to avoid over-pounding.
- Add fresh shrimp or pork sausage (optional).
Step 3. Serve
- Serve immediately.
Read more: Authentic Thai Bean Sprout Salad (Kerabu Tauge) Recipe
Tips
- Use two types of chillies for a more complex flavour profile.
- Soak the morning glory in ice water to maintain its crispness.
- Adjust the amount of lime juice and fish sauce to your liking for the perfect balance of flavours.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-400
- Fat: 5-15g
- Carbs: 30-50g
- Protein: 5-15g
FAQs
1. Can I adjust the spiciness of the Som Tam?
Absolutely! Control the heat by adjusting the amount of chilies used. Start with less and add more to your preference.
2. Where can I find the ingredients for this recipe?
Most ingredients are readily available at Asian grocery stores or online. Green papaya might be harder to find in some regions, but many supermarkets now carry it.
So there you have it – a delicious and authentic Spicy Papaya Salad with Crispy Morning Glory, ready to brighten your table. This recipe is a testament to the vibrant and complex flavors of Thai cuisine, easily achievable even for home cooks. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and explosion of flavors in every bite!