Step 1 of 5
Som tam
Peel and shred the green papaya into long, thin strips. Soak in cold water 5 minutes, then drain well so the salad stays crunchy.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips โ not a chatbot.
How long does Som tam take?
20 min all in โ 20 min prep. That is the time on this recipe, not a guess.
How many does it serve?
The recipe is written for 2 plates. Scale the ingredient list on the page if you are cooking for a different number.
How hard is it?
Easy.
How spicy is it?
Hot.
What allergens should I watch?
This recipe is labelled for Fish, Peanuts. Labels are informational โ check the packets in your kitchen. This is not medical advice.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Pescatarian, Dairy-free, Gluten-free.
What does it cost to cook?
Cheap night โ about Under $8 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
What equipment do I need?
Mortar and pestle, Chef's knife.
How much salt do I put in?
This recipe does not list salt as its own ingredient. Saltiness comes from Fish sauce โ 1ยฝ tbsp. Taste at the end rather than adding a number we did not write.
How much fish sauce?
1ยฝ tbsp of Fish sauce.
What can I use instead?
Green papaya โ Shredded carrot and cabbage. Texture changes. Still a legitimate home move. Fish sauce โ Soy sauce plus lime. Vegetarian, not equivalent. You lose the fermented fish depth.
Any tips from this recipe?
No green papaya? Shredded carrot plus a little cucumber is a different salad that still tastes good. Call it that. Sticky rice on the side is not optional if you are eating this the Isaan way.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.