Spicy Shrimp Thai Som Tam Salad Recipe
A refreshing dish that combines crisp green papaya, juicy shrimp, and a spicy tangy dressing.
By HomeFindss Kitchen
When it comes to Thai cuisine, few dishes capture the essence of freshness and spice like Som Tam, the classic green papaya salad. Add succulent shrimp to the mix, and you’ve got a vibrant, protein-packed meal that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. This spicy shrimp salad Som Tam recipe brings together the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavours, transporting you straight to the streets of Thailand with every bite.
Spicy Shrimp Salad Som Tam Recipe
Ingredients
1 green papaya, peeled and julienned
1 carrot, julienned
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup of cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2-3 bird's eye chillies, chopped (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons of fish sauce
1 tablespoon of palm sugar (or brown sugar)
2 tablespoons of lime juice
1 tablespoon of tamarind paste
2 tablespoons of roasted peanuts, crushed
Fresh cilantro and Thai basil for garnish
Optional: 1-2 long beans, cut into bite-sized pieces
Directions
Prepare the Papaya and Carrot: Begin by peeling and julienning the green papaya and carrot. The key to a great Som Tam is thin, even strips that can absorb all the delicious flavours of the dressing.
Make the Dressing: In a large mortar and pestle, combine the garlic and bird's eye chillies. Pound them into a rough paste, releasing the aromas and heat of the chillies. Add the fish sauce, palm sugar, lime juice, and tamarind paste, and continue to mix until the sugar dissolves completely.
Toss the Salad: Add the julienned papaya, carrot, cherry tomatoes, and long beans (if using) to the mortar. Lightly pound the mixture to bruise the vegetables and help them absorb the dressing. Add the cooked shrimp, and gently toss everything together until the shrimp is well-coated.
Serve and Garnish: Transfer the salad to a serving plate, sprinkle with crushed peanuts, and garnish with fresh cilantro and Thai basil. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Tips for the perfect Som Tam
Adjust the Heat: If you’re new to Thai food, start with one chilli and gradually increase to your desired spice level. The bird’s eye chilli is small but packs a punch!
Freshness is Key: Use fresh, firm green papaya for the best texture. Overripe papaya will result in a mushy salad.
Serve Immediately: Som Tam is best enjoyed fresh, as the vegetables can lose their crunch if left to sit for too long.
Spicy shrimp salad Som Tam is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. The explosion of flavours and the interplay of textures make it a standout on any table. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinners or impress guests with a taste of Thailand, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to enjoy a culinary adventure in your kitchen!
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