Thai Papaya Salad with Peanuts (Printable Version)

A refreshing Thai salad of papaya, peanuts, and lime.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables & Fruits

01 - 2 cups shredded green papaya (about 1 small papaya, peeled and seeds removed)
02 - 1 medium carrot, shredded
03 - 8–10 cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - ½ cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
05 - 2–3 cloves garlic, peeled
06 - 1–2 Thai bird's eye chilies (adjust to taste)
07 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

→ Dressing

08 - 2 tablespoons lime juice (fresh)
09 - 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian)
10 - 2 teaspoons palm sugar (or brown sugar)
11 - 1 teaspoon tamarind paste (optional)

→ Toppings & Garnishes

12 - 3 tablespoons roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
13 - 1 tablespoon dried shrimp (optional)
14 - Extra lime wedges, for serving

# How To Make It:

01 - In a mortar and pestle, pound the garlic and chilies until a rough paste forms.
02 - Add the green beans and lightly crush to bruise them.
03 - Add the shredded papaya and carrot to a large mixing bowl.
04 - Add the cherry tomatoes and lightly crush with the pestle or a spoon to release their juices.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, and tamarind paste until the sugar dissolves.
06 - Pour the dressing over the papaya mixture. Mix well (using hands with gloves is traditional) to combine and slightly bruise the vegetables, helping them absorb flavors.
07 - Toss in the roasted peanuts, dried shrimp (if using), and fresh cilantro.
08 - Serve immediately, garnished with extra peanuts and lime wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • This salad is a bright, refreshing way to enjoy your veggies.
  • It’s a quick recipe that packs a punch with flavors, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
02 -
  • Be careful not to over-mash the green beans; they should retain their snap.
  • Fresh lime juice is vital to the flavor, and don’t be shy with it!
03 -
  • Always taste the dressing before adding it to the salad; it should be a perfect mix of tang, sweet, and savory.
  • Using a mortar and pestle isn’t just traditional; it’s the best way to meld the flavors together seamlessly.
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