Som Tum, or Thai green papaya salad, is a vibrant and explosive dish that embodies the spirit of Thai cuisine. Its seemingly simple ingredients – green papaya, tomatoes, garlic, chilies, and lime – combine in a symphony of sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and bitter flavors. The rhythmic pounding of the mortar and pestle, a crucial part of the traditional preparation, releases the fragrant oils and creates a textural contrast that elevates this salad beyond the ordinary. This isn't just a side dish; it's a culinary experience, a perfect balance of fresh ingredients and bold tastes.
Beyond its captivating flavors, Som Tum offers a fascinating glimpse into Thai culinary culture. The dish's variations, reflecting regional preferences and personal tastes, demonstrate the versatility and adaptability of this classic. Ready to discover the secrets to crafting an authentic Som Tum? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create this iconic Thai masterpiece.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Strainer
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Green papaya
- Carrots
- Long beans
- Tomatoes
- Red chili: 3 pieces (or more, to taste)
- Peanut
- Palm sugar
- Tamarind juice
- Fish sauce: 7 tablespoons (for one portion)
- Lime juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Prepare the green papaya by peeling and shredding it. Try not to use a food processor.
- Shred carrots and add them to ice water to make them crispy.
- Strain and cool the carrots and set aside.
- Pound long beans in a mortar and pestle, and add to the ice water.
- Prepare the tamarind juice (refer to the video link in the description for instructions).
- Add peanuts and pound until aromatic.
Step 2. Make the Dressing and Pound the Aromatics
- In a bowl, mix tamarind juice, palm sugar, and fish sauce until sugar dissolves.
- Pound the red chilies.
- Add the pounded chilies, and pound until fluffy. Keep some peanuts aside for garnish.
Step 3. Combine and Pound the Salad
- Add long beans and tomatoes (simply crack them before adding)
- Add the green papaya and pound together. For one portion, add 7 tablespoons of fish sauce. Adjust the amount according to taste and preference.
Step 4. Finish and Garnish
- Add lime juice.
- Mix well, adding more lime juice to taste. Add the reserved peanuts for garnish.
Read more: Authentic Thai Bean Sprout Salad (Kerabu Tauge) Recipe
Tips
- The ratio of papaya to carrots is up to your preference.
- You can adjust the amount of chilies to control the spiciness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-300
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 5-7g
FAQs
1. What's the secret to getting the right texture in Som Tum?
The key is using a mortar and pestle to pound the ingredients, not chop them. This creates the perfect balance of shredded and slightly crushed textures.
2. Can I substitute ingredients if I don't have everything?
While authentic Som Tum uses specific ingredients, you can make substitutions. For example, you can use fish sauce instead of shrimp paste, or substitute carrots for green beans. However, be aware that the flavor profile might change.
3. How spicy should Som Tum be?
The spiciness is adjustable! Start with fewer chilies and add more to your liking. Remember, you can always add more spice, but you can't take it away!
Creating a truly authentic Som Tum is a rewarding culinary journey, blending traditional techniques with fresh, vibrant ingredients. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and explosion of flavors in every bite of this iconic Thai salad. Now that you've mastered the recipe, experiment with variations and make this delicious dish your own!