Papaya Salad

Philippine Papaya Salad Recipe with White Vinegar and Salt

Region / culture: Philippines | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Papaya salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that originates from Southeast Asia. It is a popular dish in countries like Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, where it is often enjoyed as a side dish or appetizer.

History

Papaya salad has been a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Thailand, where it is known as "Som Tum." The dish has since spread to other countries in the region, each putting their own unique twist on the recipe.

Ingredients

1 green papaya
1 cup white vinegar
1 tsp salt (asin)

How to prepare

Peel the papaya, cut it in half, and discard the seeds.
Slice the papaya flesh into small thin pieces or grate it.
Dress the pieces with vinegar and salt.

Variations

Add shrimp or crab meat for a protein boost.
Include peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
Experiment with different dressings, such as lime juice or fish sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use a green papaya for this recipe, as it is firmer and less sweet than ripe papayas.

- Adjust the amount of vinegar and salt to suit your taste preferences.

- For added heat, you can add chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

Papaya salad can be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing snack, or served alongside grilled meats or seafood for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious papaya salad is to slice or grate the papaya thinly to ensure that it absorbs the flavors of the dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find green papaya, you can use green mango or cucumber as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

Papaya salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the papaya salad in a hollowed-out papaya shell for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Papaya salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or sticky rice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze as the texture of the papaya may change.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 80 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 20g per serving

Fats

Fats: 0g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 1g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Papaya salad is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and folate.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and nut-free.

Summary

Papaya salad is a low-calorie and nutrient-dense dish that is packed with vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Papaya salad is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for warm weather. With its crunchy texture and tangy flavor, it is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was during my travels through Southeast Asia, where I stumbled upon a small street market in Thailand. The vibrant colors of the fruits and vegetables caught my eye, and I couldn't resist stopping to explore.

As I wandered through the market, the sweet aroma of ripe papayas filled the air. I was immediately drawn to a stall where a friendly Thai woman was preparing a traditional papaya salad. The sight of the shredded green papaya mixed with fragrant herbs and spices was enough to make my mouth water.

I struck up a conversation with the woman, who graciously shared her recipe with me. She explained that papaya salad, also known as som tam, is a popular dish in Thailand and is enjoyed for its fresh and tangy flavors. I watched intently as she demonstrated how to prepare the salad, taking notes and asking questions along the way.

Back at home, I couldn't wait to recreate the delicious papaya salad I had tasted in Thailand. I gathered all the ingredients I needed, including green papayas, cherry tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and a variety of herbs and spices. The key to a good papaya salad, I learned, is the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors.

I began by shredding the green papaya into thin strips, using a special tool I had purchased at the market. Next, I pounded together garlic, chili peppers, palm sugar, and fish sauce to create a flavorful dressing. I added the shredded papaya, along with cherry tomatoes, green beans, and crushed peanuts, tossing everything together until well combined.

The aroma that filled my kitchen was reminiscent of the bustling street market in Thailand. I took a bite of the papaya salad and was instantly transported back to that moment, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a vibrant culture.

Over the years, I have perfected my recipe for papaya salad, making adjustments and additions to suit my own taste. I have shared it with friends and family, who always rave about its fresh and zesty flavors. Each time I make it, I am reminded of the kind Thai woman who shared her recipe with me and the unforgettable experience of discovering a new culinary treasure.

In my collection of recipes from around the world, the papaya salad holds a special place. It represents not only a delicious dish but also a connection to a distant land and its rich culinary traditions. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from others and to continue expanding my repertoire of recipes, one delicious dish at a time.