Discover the vibrant flavors of Laos with the tantalizing Tam Lao Papaya Salad! This refreshing dish, bursting with zesty lime, savory fish sauce, and the crunch of fresh vegetables, is not just a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. Perfect for a light meal or as a side that will impress your guests, this salad comes together in just 10 minutes. Are you ready to elevate your culinary repertoire with this exotic and healthy recipe? Dive in and learn how to make this delightful salad that will transport you straight to the streets of Laos!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Laos
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 green papaya, shredded
- 1 carrot, shredded
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 chili pepper, minced
- Peanuts for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by thoroughly washing the green papaya and carrot. Using a sharp grater or julienne peeler, shred the green papaya and carrot into thin, long strips. Place the shredded vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, create the dressing by combining fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and minced chili pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is completely dissolved and the dressing is well mixed.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the shredded papaya and carrot. Use clean hands or salad tongs to gently but thoroughly mix the dressing into the vegetables, ensuring every strand is coated evenly.
- Let the salad sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to slightly soften from the dressing.
- Transfer the salad to serving plates, using tongs to arrange it neatly. Sprinkle crushed roasted peanuts on top as a garnish for added texture and flavor.
- Serve immediately at room temperature as a refreshing and tangy side dish or light meal. Best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the papaya.
Tips
- Choose the Right Papaya: Opt for a firm, green papaya for the best texture. Ripe papayas will be too soft for this salad.
- Shred with Care: Use a sharp grater or julienne peeler to achieve thin, even strips of papaya and carrot for optimal flavor absorption and presentation.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder salad, reduce the amount of chili pepper. Conversely, add more for an extra kick!
- Let It Marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes after mixing helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the crushed roasted peanuts—they add a delightful crunch and richness that complements the salad perfectly.
- Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve the salad immediately after preparation to enjoy its crispness and vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
