Prepare yourself for a flavor explosion! Spicy papaya salad, or Som Tum, is a vibrant and iconic Thai dish that's both refreshing and intensely flavorful. The combination of sweet, green papaya, fiery chilies, savory fish sauce, and crunchy peanuts creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will awaken your senses. This isn't your average salad; it's a culinary adventure, a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy that leaves you wanting more. Whether you're a seasoned Thai food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this recipe will transport you to the bustling street food stalls of Thailand.
This particular recipe, a twist on the classic Som Tum, elevates the dish with the addition of succulent crab meat and tender snails, adding a luxurious depth to the already impressive flavor profile. Ready to embark on this culinary journey and learn how to create this unforgettable masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to make your own Spicy Papaya Salad with Crabs & Snails.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Steamer
- Pot
- Brush
Ingredients
- Crabs
- Cherry snails
- Papaya
- Dried chilies
- Red chilies
- Garlic: 1-2 cloves
- MSG
- Cherry tomatoes
- Orange tomatoes
- Sugar
- Tamarind juice: 2 ladles
- Fish sauce
- Lime juice
- Lemongrass
- Lime leaves
- Orange juice
- Salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Seafood & Dressing
- Wash thoroughly with a brush. If they are still alive, chill them with ice.
- Mix salt all over the crabs, then rinse several times until clean.
- Steam until cooked.
- Boil snails with chilies, lemongrass, and lime leaves to remove impurities and enhance flavor.




- Boil again with lemongrass and lime leaves for hygiene and aroma.
- Grind dried chilies, red chilies, garlic, and MSG in a mortar. Add cherry tomatoes, orange tomatoes, sugar, tamarind juice, fish sauce, and lime juice to taste. Adjust spiciness and sourness as needed.


Step 2. Make the Papaya Salad Dressing
- Grind dried chilies, red chilies, garlic, and MSG in a mortar. Add cherry tomatoes, orange tomatoes, sugar, tamarind juice, fish sauce, and lime juice to taste. Adjust spiciness and sourness as needed.

Step 3. Combine & Season
- Mix the prepared crabs, snails, papaya, and dressing together. Taste and adjust seasonings.

Step 4. Serve
- Garnish and serve immediately.

Read more: Authentic Thai Bean Sprout Salad (Kerabu Tauge) Recipe
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for best results.
- Adjust the amount of chilies to control the spiciness level.
- The tamarind juice should be thick and sour.
- If using larger orange tomatoes, cut them in half before adding.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbs: 40-50g
- Protein: 10-15g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the crab and snails with other ingredients?
Absolutely! Shrimp, chicken, or even tofu would be great alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
2. What if I don't have all the ingredients listed? Can I leave some out?
You can certainly omit some ingredients, but it will affect the overall flavor. Fish sauce and lime juice are essential for the tang, while chilies provide the heat.
3. How do I adjust the spiciness level?
Start with fewer chilies and add more to taste. You can also control the heat by using milder chili varieties or removing the seeds before adding them to the salad.
So there you have it – your very own delicious and authentic Spicy Papaya Salad with Crabs & Snails, a true taste of Thailand. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures of this Kru Kan Thamni recipe, perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side dish. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with this culinary masterpiece!