Green Papaya and Shrimp Salad

Green Papaya and Shrimp Salad Recipe - Authentic Thai Cuisine

Region / culture: Thailand | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Green Papaya and Shrimp Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the crispness of green papaya with the succulent taste of shrimp. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal, and is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant colors and bold flavors.

History

This recipe originates from Southeast Asia, where green papaya is a popular ingredient in many dishes. The combination of green papaya and shrimp creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Ingredients

2 tbsp equal parts fresh basil, cilantro, and mint, chopped
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp fish sauce
2 limes, juice only
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh ground black pepper
3 fresh jalapeno peppers, chopped
1.5 lb (680 g) green papaya, shredded
0.75 lb (340 g) shrimp, cleaned, steamed, and chilled
2 tbsp roasted peanuts, chopped
2 firm tomatoes, diced

How to prepare

Mix the fresh herbs, combine the sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, black pepper, and chiles until the sugar is dissolved.
Toss with the remaining ingredients and serve with fresh tortillas.

Variations

Add mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.
Substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Add avocado for a creamy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to shred the green papaya thinly to achieve a crisp and crunchy texture.

- Steaming the shrimp ensures that they are cooked perfectly and remain tender.

- Adjust the amount of jalapeno peppers according to your spice preference.

- For a more intense flavor, let the salad marinate in the dressing for a few hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a light lunch or dinner, or as a side dish to accompany a main course. It pairs well with grilled meats or seafood.

Cooking Techniques

Shred the green papaya using a mandoline or a box grater.

- Steam the shrimp until they are pink and opaque.

- Toast the peanuts in a dry skillet for added flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use jicama or cucumber instead of green papaya.

- Substitute soy sauce for fish sauce.

- Use cashews or almonds instead of peanuts.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavors will develop even more as it sits.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a hollowed-out pineapple or coconut for a tropical presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs and lime wedges for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a refreshing iced tea or coconut water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave or enjoy cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of green papaya and shrimp salad contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a light and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

The green papaya and shrimp salad is a low-carb dish, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This salad is a low-fat dish, with each serving containing only 5 grams of fat. The roasted peanuts add a touch of healthy fats to the dish.

Proteins

The shrimp in this salad provides a good source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 20 grams of protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Green papaya is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and magnesium. Shrimp is a good source of selenium, vitamin B12, and iron. This salad is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains shrimp and peanuts, which are common allergens. Make sure to check for any allergies before serving this dish to guests.

Summary

Overall, green papaya and shrimp salad is a nutritious and well-balanced dish that is low in carbs and fats, but high in protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Green Papaya and Shrimp Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this salad is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Green Papaya and Shrimp Salad. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting a friend who had just returned from a trip to Thailand. She had brought back all sorts of exotic ingredients and recipes, and she was eager to share them with me.

As soon as she pulled out the recipe for Green Papaya and Shrimp Salad, I knew I had to learn how to make it. The combination of fresh papaya, succulent shrimp, and tangy dressing sounded absolutely delicious. My friend told me that she had learned the recipe from a local chef while she was in Thailand, and that it was a popular dish in the region.

I watched intently as my friend demonstrated how to make the salad. She started by shredding a green papaya into thin strips, using a special tool that she had brought back from Thailand. The papaya had a crisp, slightly sweet flavor that I had never tasted before. Next, she cooked the shrimp in a fragrant mixture of garlic, ginger, and lemongrass, until they were pink and tender.

Once the shrimp were cooked, my friend tossed them with the shredded papaya, along with a handful of fresh herbs and vegetables. She drizzled the salad with a zesty dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and chili peppers, giving it a spicy kick that made my mouth water.

After my friend finished making the salad, she offered me a taste. I eagerly took a bite, and I was instantly hooked. The flavors were bright and bold, with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy. I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Over the next few weeks, I practiced making Green Papaya and Shrimp Salad in my own kitchen. I experimented with different ingredients and techniques, trying to recreate the flavors that I had experienced in my friend's kitchen. I made the salad for my family and friends, who all raved about how delicious it was.

As I continued to perfect the recipe, I realized that it had become more than just a dish to me. It was a connection to a faraway place, a taste of the exotic flavors of Thailand that I could bring into my own home. I felt a sense of pride every time I made the salad, knowing that I had learned something new and exciting.

Years passed, and I continued to make Green Papaya and Shrimp Salad for my loved ones. It became a staple at family gatherings and dinner parties, a dish that everyone looked forward to. I shared the recipe with anyone who asked, passing on the knowledge that I had gained from my friend's trip to Thailand.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, preparing the salad once again, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences that have led me to this moment. I am grateful for my friend who shared the recipe with me, for the chefs in Thailand who inspired it, and for the memories that I have created through cooking this dish.

I may never have the opportunity to visit Thailand myself, but when I make Green Papaya and Shrimp Salad, I feel like a part of that vibrant and colorful culture. The flavors transport me to a place of warmth and beauty, a place where food is not just sustenance, but a celebration of life.

And so, as I take my first bite of the salad, I savor the taste of adventure and discovery. I am grateful for the journey that has brought me to this moment, and I am excited to continue exploring new recipes and flavors in the years to come. Cooking has always been my passion, and I know that it will continue to bring me joy and fulfillment for as long as I live.