Som Tum Sua Sen Lek, or Spicy Papaya Salad with Thin Noodles, is a vibrant and flavorful Thai dish that elevates the classic Som Tum to new heights. This isn't your grandma's papaya salad; the addition of delicate, slippery noodles adds a delightful textural contrast to the familiar crunch of the papaya and the fiery kick of the chilies. Expect a symphony of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. The perfect balance of ingredients, expertly combined, makes this dish a true culinary masterpiece, ideal for a light lunch or a flavorful side.
This recipe guides you through creating an authentic Som Tum Sua Sen Lek, from selecting the freshest ingredients to achieving the perfect balance of spice and flavor. We'll walk you through each step, ensuring you can recreate this delicious Thai street food classic in your own kitchen. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Mortar and Pestle
- Pot
- Cutting Board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Thin Noodles
- Small Pork Roll (Boiled)
- Papaya Salad Ingredients
- Thai Chili
- Garlic
- Tomatoes
- Olives
- Green Beans
- Coriander
- Lime
- Tamarind Juice
- Fish Sauce
- Palm Sugar
- Acacia Seeds
- Pork Crackling/Rinds
- Ajino Plus (MSG): 1/2 the usual amount
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Base
- Prepare the pork roll. Since it's pre-cooked, simply boil it if needed.
- Add the thin noodles. Cook until tender.
- Pound the garlic and Thai chilies together in a mortar and pestle. Adjust chili amount to your spice preference.
- Add olives, green beans, and other papaya salad ingredients to the mortar and pestle.
Step 2. Create the Dressing
- Add tamarind juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, and Ajino Plus (MSG - use half the usual amount). Mix well.
- Taste and adjust seasoning (sourness, spiciness, saltiness, sweetness) by adding more lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, or chilies as needed.
Step 3. Combine and Mix
- Add the cooked thin noodles and pork roll.
- Gently mix everything together. Add coriander for extra aroma.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Serve with crispy pork and garnishes.
Read more: Authentic Thai Bean Sprout Salad (Kerabu Tauge) Recipe
Tips
- Using Ajino Plus (MSG) helps reduce costs while maintaining delicious flavor. Use only half the amount of regular MSG.
- For a less intense tamarind flavor, use diluted tamarind juice instead of concentrated juice.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 50-70g
- Protein: 10-15g
FAQs
1. Can I adjust the spiciness of the Som Tum Sua Sen Lek?
Absolutely! Start with less chili and add more to your taste. You can also control the heat by using milder chilies or removing the seeds.
2. What type of noodles are best for this recipe?
Thin rice noodles (sen lek) are traditional, but you can experiment with other thin noodles like cellophane noodles if needed. Avoid thicker noodles as they won't integrate as well.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components (papaya, dressing) separately a few hours in advance. Combine and toss just before serving to avoid the noodles becoming soggy.
With its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, Som Tum Sua Sen Lek is a culinary adventure well worth undertaking. This recipe offers a delicious and authentic taste of Thailand, easily recreated in your own kitchen. Enjoy the rewarding experience of making and savoring this incredibly flavorful papaya salad!