Som tam

Som tam is a popular salad dish from Thailand. It is also known as "green papaya salad" due to its main ingredient, green papaya. Som tam is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors.

History

Som tam originated in the northeastern region of Thailand, known as Isan. It is believed to have been influenced by the neighboring countries of Laos and Cambodia. The dish has since become a staple in Thai cuisine and is enjoyed throughout the country.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of som tam include:

• Green papaya, shredded into thin strips
• Tomatoes, sliced
• Long beans, cut into small pieces
• Peanuts, roasted and crushed
• Lime juice
• Fish sauce
• Palm sugar
• Chili peppers

Preparation

To prepare som tam, the green papaya is first peeled and shredded into thin strips. The tomatoes, long beans, and chili peppers are then added to the papaya. The ingredients are mixed together in a large mortar and pestle, known as a krok. The mixture is pounded gently to release the flavors and to soften the papaya. Lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar are added to the mixture to create a tangy and sweet dressing. Finally, the crushed peanuts are sprinkled on top for added texture and flavor.

Variations

There are several variations of som tam, each with its own unique twist. Some popular variations include:

• Som tam Thai: This is the most common version of som tam, which includes the traditional ingredients mentioned above.
• Som tam Lao: This variation is similar to the Thai version but often includes fermented fish sauce, known as plaa raa, and pickled crab, known as pu pla ra.
• Som tam Khao poon: This variation includes rice noodles, giving the dish a different texture and flavor.

Serving

Som tam is typically served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside other Thai dishes. It is often accompanied by sticky rice, which helps balance the spiciness of the salad. The dish is garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro and mint, and sometimes served with grilled chicken or shrimp.

Cultural Significance

Som tam is not only a popular dish in Thailand but also holds cultural significance. It is often associated with street food culture and is commonly sold by street vendors throughout the country. The dish is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike and has gained international recognition as a delicious and healthy salad option.

See also

• Thai cuisine
• Isan cuisine
• List of Thai dishes